Mercedes-AMG has taken one of its most recognizable performance sedans in a completely new direction. The CLA 45 is back, but instead of relying on its famous turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the latest generation arrives as a fully electric performance car. While the name remains familiar, almost everything underneath has changed.
The new AMG CLA 45 is built around a tri-motor electric powertrain that delivers performance figures once reserved for supercars. It also introduces new technologies designed to keep the driving experience engaging, even without a traditional combustion engine.
Three Motors, Massive Performance
Power comes from a combination of one electric motor at the front and two motors on the rear axle. Together, they produce up to 680 horsepower, while continuous output is rated at 612 hp.
Even more striking is the torque figure. The system generates an astonishing 1,759 Nm, more than three times the torque produced by the outgoing petrol-powered CLA 45. Mercedes-AMG has retained its fully variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, ensuring power is distributed efficiently across all four wheels.
The result is exceptional acceleration. Both the sedan and the Shooting Brake estate sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, while buyers opting for the AMG Dynamic Plus Package can push that figure to 270 km/h.
Long Range Meets Ultra-Fast Charging
Performance hasn’t come at the expense of usability. The new CLA 45 features a 94 kWh usable lithium-ion battery that offers impressive driving range.
According to Mercedes-AMG, the sedan can travel more than 670 km on the WLTP cycle, while the slightly heavier Shooting Brake manages over 640 km.
Charging is equally impressive. Thanks to support for 330 kW DC fast charging, the battery can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 22 minutes. A quick 10-minute charging stop can add over 270 km of driving range, making long-distance travel considerably easier.
To maximize efficiency, the front motor automatically disengages when additional traction is unnecessary, allowing the vehicle to operate in rear-wheel-drive mode during lighter driving conditions.
A Digital Twist on Traditional AMG Character
One of the biggest talking points is how Mercedes-AMG has attempted to recreate the emotional appeal of a petrol-powered performance car.
The electric CLA 45 features simulated gear shifts, synthetic engine sounds inspired by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and seat vibrations that mimic mechanical feedback. Drivers will also find a virtual rev counter and gear indicator displayed on the digital instrument cluster.
Whether these features will win over long-time AMG enthusiasts remains to be seen, but they highlight Mercedes’ effort to preserve the brand’s sporty identity in the electric era.
Familiar Cabin, Different Rear Layout
Inside, the CLA 45 follows Mercedes’ latest design language with a dashboard dominated by large digital displays. However, practicality takes a slight hit, as the AMG version replaces the regular CLA’s rear bench with two individual rear seats.
Like many high-performance EVs, weight remains one compromise. The sedan tips the scales at around 2,280 kg, while the Shooting Brake adds another 15 kg.
Despite that, the electric CLA 45 demonstrates that Mercedes-AMG isn’t simply replacing combustion engines with batteries. Instead, it is redefining what an entry-level AMG performance car can be, combining remarkable speed, impressive range and cutting-edge electric technology in a package aimed squarely at the future of performance driving.
