By Declan Glynn
Recently voted European Car of the Year 2026, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA now comes in all-electric versions as well as high-tech mild hybrid drivetrain models, plus the availability of 4MATIC all-wheel drive within the range. It is the all-electric CLA that is the subject of this review.
The new CLA’s exterior features a sporty ‘shark-nose’ front and a streamlined silhouette, helped by frameless doors with flush-fitting handles. The now-familiar chromed ‘star-studded’ grille and ‘star-shaped’ headlights and taillights add emphasis to its parentage. The front end is dominated by a large three-pointed star, and the 142 smaller stars that surround it light up on all-electric models, as does the light bar that stretches across the entire front of the car. This results in a striking effect after dark that provides the car with a truly distinctive look. Optimised aerodynamic wheel designs channel airflow efficiently around the car’s wheel arches, and airflow is carefully managed ahead of the axles using sculpted spoilers and rear diffusers to great effect.
The most eye-catching highlight in the new CLA’s cabin is the new MBUX Superscreen, which extends across the entire width of the dashboard, while the two-tiered centre console sits high for a sporty feel, and features a wireless charging pad. The expansive fixed panoramic roof maximises headroom and fills the cabin with natural light, offering a spacious, airy feel.
The all-electric (BEV) Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in four versions (badged CLA 200, CLA 250, CLA 250+, and CLA 350), with the choice of ‘Progressive Line’ or ‘AMG Line’ trim grades across all versions, along with many additional optional packages . The innovative 800-volt electric architecture used by Mercedes-Benz significantly reduces charging times, allowing the CLA 250+, for example, to achieve a 325km charge in less than 10 minutes. Usable battery capacities extend from 58kWh to 85kWh (model dependent), with potentially achievable WLTP range figures of between 529km and 790km possible – depending on the battery capacity chosen.
My Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Electric ‘AMG Line’ looked magnificent in its Alpine Grey solid paintwork (a cost-option), and sporty 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, along with exclusive AMG Line exterior and interior enhancements. The rear-mounted electric motor is powered by a 58kWh battery, which provides a WLTP range of up to 529kms when fully charged. Producing 224hp and 335Nm of instant torque, a 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in 7.5-seconds. The CLA Electric’s overall drivability is genuinely impressive. The steering weight and response feel properly calibrated, and the regenerative braking is smooth and predictable in its operation. The ride quality strikes a perfect balance that all occupants will enjoy, and refinement at motorway speed is exceptional. Sharp corners and twisty bends on back roads enable the driver to make the most of the car’s rear-drive layout, while the combination of a powerful rear motor and rear-biased weight balance make the CLA feel stable and well-planted on the road. Pricing starts from €53,425 (inclusive of VRT Relief and a €3,500 SEAI Grant for private buyers).
By Declan Glynn
The stunning new Fiat 600 takes the best of the B and B-SUV worlds to offer a beautiful, joyful and pampered driving experience, marking the Italian brand’s return to the highly-competitive B-segments. Available in both hybrid and fully-electric, the new Fiat 600 is an ideal car for Irish roads, and the perfect embodiment of the brand’s values of celebrated Italian style and sustainability. It is the fully-electric Fiat 600 (badged 600e) that is the subject of this review.
Latest Electrified Platform
The fully-electric 600e uses the latest Stellantis e-CMP2 platform, with its integrated battery design boosting rigidity in the process. Its 156hp electric motor sits transversely within the platform and it sends its power to the cars’ front wheels in a composed and responsive fashion. The new 600 features a sharper and more assertive face than its Fiat 500 sibling, and it comes with a distinctive LED lighting identity. The elegant, yet dynamic, exterior look is enhanced by stylish wheels, matt black wheel arches, and black trim elements around its lower edges to emphasise its robust nature. The characterful exterior styling is replicated in the cabin where its smart interior design is both visually impressive and pleasingly practical for up to 5 occupants. With all rear seats in their upright position, the boot has a capacity of 360-litres, but this can be expanded to 1,256-litres when the rear seats are folded down.
Three Trim Grades
The lithium-ion batteries in the 600e come with a 54kWh capacity that provides a range of up to 408km on a WLTP combined driving cycle, and more than 600km on a city-only driving cycle. The 600e is equipped with a 100kW fast-charger system and it comes with a 11kW on-board charger and a Mode 3 cable for charging at home, or in public. The electric powertrain produces 156hp and 260Nm of instant torque, providing acceleration from 0-100km/h in just 9-seconds. With the 600e, buyers can choose between Pop, Icon, and La Prima trim grades, with prices starting from just €28,495 (inclusive of SEAI Grant & VRT Rebate).
Car on Review
My review car was a Fiat 600e, which was finished in black metallic paintwork. On the road is where the new 600e really comes into its own. The electric motor is impressively quiet, and the cabin is well insulated from road, wind and tyre noise. The centre console-mounted gear selector is of the push-button variety and is super-intuitive in its operation. The 600e is an easy and undemanding car to drive, and its manoeuvrability along congested city streets is so easy to get used to. With the Sport drive mode selected, the accelerator pedal response is sharpened, and all of the motor’s power is made available for an enhanced driving experience. There is a nicely-weighted feel to the steering and the car maintains good grip through sharp bends and tight corners. The suspension in the 600e is comfort-oriented, so that all occupants can benefit from a cossetting ride quality on every journey. It is a highly commendable car in every respect.
