In a move that may surprise some, Mercedes’ next-generation entry-level platform, the MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture), will not be exclusively electric. Instead, it will also accommodate combustion engines, aligning with BMW’s strategy of letting customers decide their preferred drivetrain.
Two Paths, One Platform
Unlike BMW’s broader powertrain options, the new MMA platform will focus on two choices: pure electric or hybrid. Models such as the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB will offer either a fully electric setup or a mild-hybrid gasoline engine. Gone are the days of efficient diesels or plug-in hybrids with extended range in the compact Mercedes lineup. Yet, many customers may breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that Mercedes isn’t committing exclusively to electric as previously rumored.
The electric CLA aims to challenge the Tesla Model 3, as well as upcoming electric competitors like the Audi A4 e-tron and BMW i3 (from BMW’s Neue Klasse lineup). Drawing heavily from the tech innovations of the Mercedes Vision EQXX, base models will feature a 200 kW (272 PS) rear-wheel drive, while higher-spec variants will include an 80 kW (109 PS) front electric motor for all-wheel drive. The front motor only engages during high-demand situations, such as spirited driving or poor traction, and seamlessly disengages under normal conditions. Top speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h.
Charging Ahead with Efficiency
Mercedes engineers are particularly proud of introducing silicon carbide (SiC) inverters to this entry-level class. The MMA platform’s 800-volt architecture supports charging speeds of up to 320 kW, a significant leap from the current 200 kW limit on the flagship EQS. Using a hypercharger, drivers can add 300 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes.
The CLA’s efficiency numbers are equally impressive: 12 kWh/100 km, enabling a range of up to 750 kilometers with the larger 85 kWh battery. Entry-level models, however, will come with a more modest 58 kWh battery.
Combustion Lives On
For those not ready to embrace electrification, Mercedes will offer gasoline engines in the CLA and its siblings, ensuring they don’t lose customers to international rivals. However, these mild-hybrid combustion models will launch nearly a year after their electric counterparts, arriving in early 2026.
The gasoline-powered CLA will use a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developed by Mercedes in collaboration with Geely, replacing the current 1.3-liter unit from a previous Renault-Nissan partnership. The new engine will be available in three power levels:
- 100 kW (136 PS)
- 120 kW (163 PS)
- 140 kW (190 PS)
Paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, an additional 20 kW (27 PS) of electric boost allows for energy recuperation and short bursts of electric-only driving (up to 4 kilometers). More importantly, this system focuses on reducing fuel consumption, delivering near-diesel levels of efficiency with a real-world 5 liters per 100 kilometers.
Many Choices Left
To maintain the platform’s advantages, the gasoline versions will feature subtle design changes, especially at the front. Instead of the electric variant’s frunk, the CLA hybrid houses its combustion engine up front. Visually, however, the differences between the two powertrains will be minimal, ensuring a cohesive design across the lineup.
With its dual-focus platform, Mercedes is banking on versatility to cater to diverse customer needs in a rapidly evolving market. By balancing cutting-edge electric technology with practical hybrid options, the MMA platform could prove to be a pivotal step in Mercedes’ electrified journey while keeping one foot firmly in the world of combustion.
