The 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA EV impresses with excellent real-world range and smooth luxury.

The third-generation CLA made a big splash for the 2026 model year with a new platform that can handle both electric and hybrid powertrains. For 2027, the lineup adds a CLA 220 Hybrid in addition to the CLA 250+ and 350 4Matic EVs. To us, however, the EVs are the big story because buyers can step into an electric luxury vehicle for less than $50,000 (before options, that is).

Verdict: After taking a road trip in the 2027 CLA 250+ EV, we were impressed with the better-than-advertised range, easy-to-use tech, and overall comfort. True to Mercedes form, though, everything seems to be an option—and those options can be expensive. If buyers want things like dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, or a head-up display, they’ll have to add standalone options or pricey packages that affect this car’s value proposition.