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Mercedes reveals CLA 220 with a 48‑volt hybrid drivetrain
The new Mercedes‑Benz CLA 220 arrives as a tech‑forward compact sedan that bridges traditional petrol engineering and mild‑hybrid electrification. Built around a 1.5‑liter turbocharged inline‑four and an electrified transmission, the CLA 220 uses a 48‑volt architecture to deliver improved efficiency, smoother low‑speed response, and electrical functionality typically reserved for higher‑voltage hybrids.
How the hybrid system works
Mercedes integrates a 30‑hp electric motor into an 8F‑eDCT electrified dual‑clutch transaxle. That motor produces about 148 lb‑ft (200 Nm) of low‑end torque and draws power from a compact battery with 1.3 kWh of usable capacity. When driving demands are modest — under roughly 27 hp — the sedan can operate in electric‑only mode, and a decoupled drivetrain allows coasting with the engine disengaged up to 60 mph (97 km/h).
Recovery and thermal efficiency are key themes. The front transaxle can recuperate as much as 25 kW in all eight gears, and Mercedes has opted for front‑wheel drive on the CLA 220 rather than the rear or all‑wheel layouts seen on some EQ Technology variants.
Engine details and manufacturing
Part of the FAME engine family, the M252 1.5‑liter turbo was developed in partnership with Geely’s powertrain division and is manufactured in China. The engine features a cylinder‑head‑integrated exhaust manifold to reduce turbo lag, speed up catalyst warm‑up, and allow leaner air/fuel mixtures. It also uses the Miller cycle to boost thermal efficiency compared with a comparable Otto‑cycle unit.
On its own the 1.5‑liter unit makes 188 hp at 5,500 rpm and 221 lb‑ft (300 Nm) between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm. Combined output for the CLA 220 is rated at 208 hp and 280 lb‑ft (380 Nm), according to Mercedes‑Benz USA.
Performance, packaging and NVH
The CLA 220 hits 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, weighs about 3,594 lb (1,630 kg) and is electronically limited to 130 mph (210 km/h). Practical considerations were not overlooked: the sedan offers a slightly larger cabin than its predecessor and a trunk capacity of 14.3 cu ft (405 liters).
Mercedes bolstered interior quietness with a double‑bulkhead concept and bulkhead isolation that continues into the A‑pillars and down into the floor, reducing NVH and giving the CLA a more premium feel for daily driving.
Exterior and lighting
Styling aligns closely with the brand’s electric siblings, including chrome stars on the radiator grille and an illuminated grille surround. The star motif extends to front and rear lighting, and Mercedes offers an optional LED Intelligent Light System. A front lightbar visually links the headlamps and helps the CLA look modern and cohesive on the road.
Cabin tech: MBUX, cloud services and driver assistance
Inside the CLA 220, Mercedes pushes its software and connectivity strategy: MB.OS, Mercedes‑Benz Intelligent Cloud, and fourth‑generation MBUX form the backbone of the infotainment experience. The system includes AI features from Google and Microsoft, Google Maps route guidance with tailor mode, and optional MBUX Superscreen that unites a 10.25‑inch digital instrument cluster with 14‑inch central and 14‑inch front‑passenger displays.
MB.DRIVE bundles advanced driver assistance features such as lane change assist activated via the indicator stalk, reinforcing Mercedes’ focus on semi‑automated convenience.
Highlights and quick specs:
- Powertrain: 1.5L M252 turbo + 30‑hp e‑motor in 8F‑eDCT
- Battery: 1.3 kWh usable, 48‑volt system
- Combined output: 208 hp / 280 lb‑ft (380 Nm)
- 0–60 mph: 7.1 s; top speed: 130 mph (electronically limited)
- Weight: 3,594 lb (1,630 kg); trunk: 14.3 cu ft (405 L)
- Recuperation: up to 25 kW across gears
The CLA 220 aims to be an efficient, tech‑rich entry in the compact premium segment — a sensible choice for buyers who want the feel of electrification without full battery electric ownership. For markets such as the US, it offers a compelling mix of fuel economy, performance, and the latest Mercedes software features.
Source: autoevolution
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