The highly anticipated next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA has been unveiled for the first time, giving car enthusiasts a glimpse of the production model beneath a camouflaged cover. The sleek new design was showcased on Friday at the 39th Festival d’Hyères, a prestigious French fashion and photography event.
The new CLA stays true to the concept version that Mercedes had previously teased, but the production model brings a more refined, real-world look. The car maintains its sleek silhouette, though it appears less aggressive and more grounded than the earlier concept’s exaggerated form.
Key features of the new CLA include a prominent Mercedes emblem displayed on the front grille, which, despite being partially covered, hints at a bold look. The grille remains closed except for air vents on the lower part of the front bumper. The front end also boasts sharp LED headlights, which are similar to those seen on the concept version, and a distinctive chin-forward design that gives the car a sporty presence.
The CLA’s reasonably sized wheels are also eye-catching, adorned with the name “d’Hyères” in recognition of the festival where it was revealed. One notable modern feature is the use of pop-out door handles, a trend seen in many of Mercedes’ current models. The rear quarters of the car reveal two panels, likely indicating either a fuel door, an electric charging port, or perhaps a decoy flap to keep final details under wraps.
While Mercedes-Benz hasn’t confirmed whether the model displayed is an electric vehicle (EV) or a gas-powered version, speculation suggests that the dual-panel design could hint at a hybrid version. The car is built on Mercedes’ Modular Architecture (MMA), which can accommodate both electric and hybrid powertrains. The lack of visible exhaust pipes and the closed front grille lend further support to the possibility that the vehicle on display could be an electric version.
Also Read:
- Tribunal Fines Multichoice N150 Million, Orders One-Month Free DStv, GOtv Subscriptions
- Elon Musk Redefines the Sports Car with the New Tesla Roadster
The rear of the CLA has a rounded design, with a small trunk lid spoiler adding a touch of flair. The car also features a full-width rear taillight, a stylish element that will likely become a defining feature once the camouflage is removed. If there is an exhaust, it’s cleverly hidden behind the rear bumper, further fueling the idea that this could be an EV model.
Mercedes-Benz has been tight-lipped about the final specifications, but with the production model appearing nearly ready, more details are expected to emerge soon. If the next-gen CLA lives up to the performance and efficiency benchmarks set by its concept version, it’s poised to be a standout in the compact luxury sedan market.