Mercedes-Benz CLA EV Malaysia preview set for Jan 15, here’s what the C178 specs might look like

KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is set to give a first look at the new Mercedes-Benz CLA this month, with a preview session scheduled for January 15, 2026.

The timing matters because the CLA is being positioned as the sort of “normal” Mercedes that could help lift EV volumes, not a niche halo model.

Until that local showing, there are no confirmed Malaysia-market specifications. Still, Mercedes has already revealed full technical details overseas for the new CLA (referred to here as the C178), and the headline is that it sits on the brand’s new MMA platform with an 800-volt electrical architecture, the same kind of hardware you normally associate with faster charging and better efficiency.

Also Read: All-New Mercedes-Benz CLA goes electric: Huge range, quick charging, and classic style

Powertrains, performance

Globally, two main EV variants have been detailed so far:

• CLA 250+ (RWD)
  Outputs are listed at 200 kW (268 hp) and 335 Nm, with a 0–100 km/h time of 6.7 seconds.

• CLA 350 4MATIC (AWD)
  This adds a front axle motor (externally sourced, 80 kW) to form an all-wheel drive setup, bringing combined output to 260 kW (349 hp) and 515 Nm, with 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

Battery, range, efficiency

Both variants share the same battery spec in the global release, an 85 kWh usable NMC battery.

Mercedes is quoting WLTP range figures of up to 783 km for the CLA 250+, and 771 km for the CLA 350 4MATIC. Energy consumption is rated between 12.2 to 14.1 kWh per 100 km, which is the sort of number that helps explain those big range claims, at least on paper.

Charging

The 800-volt setup is a major part of the CLA’s EV pitch because it enables higher charging speeds. Mercedes says the CLA can peak at up to 320 kW, and claims you can add about 325 km (CLA 250+) or 315 km (CLA 350 4MATIC) of range in 10 minutes.

For a more typical DC fast charge session, Mercedes quotes an average of 162 kW from 10% to 80%. There’s also a feature on the EV called, automatic battery preconditioning to help the car hit better charging performance when you arrive at chargers.

Regenerative braking changes

Another technical change is the introduction of a multi-level recuperation control system, adjusted through the vehicle controls rather than steering paddles. Mercedes says most braking can be handled through regen, which is aimed at improving overall efficiency.

Interior, packaging, and practicality

Inside, the CLA moves the game on with new tech options and slightly better practicality:

• Optional full-width MBUX Superscreen

• More recycled, sustainable materials used in the cabin

• A multi-source heat pump as standard, intended to improve cabin comfort and help battery management

• Slight improvements in front headroom and legroom

• A 51-litre frunk, including on AWD models, which is still a novelty for many Mercedes buyers here

Styling and future updates

Visually, Mercedes is keeping the CLA close to the combustion-engine look rather than going full “spaceship EV”, just with more modern cues like an illuminated grille and animated lighting sequences.

For now, Malaysia gets a date and a first viewing, January 15, 2026, but not the local spec sheet. The big question is how much of the overseas headline numbers, especially the WLTP range and 320 kW charging claim, carries over into the Malaysia-market car.

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia wraps up 2025 with portfolio expansion, EV charging push, and more customer programmes