Is the New Electric Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 a 671bhp Beast?

Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 Goes Fully Electric

The latest Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 marks a decisive shift for the performance‑oriented compact coupe – it is now offered as a fully electric model. Powered by a tri‑motor set‑up, the EV produces a staggering 671 bhp, propelling the car from stand‑still to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds. Those figures place the electric CLA 45 at the top of the AMG hot‑hatch hierarchy and make it one of the most powerful road‑legal electric cars available in the UK.

How the Power Moves

The three electric motors are arranged to deliver power to both the front and rear axles, creating a permanent four‑wheel‑drive system. This configuration not only produces the headline‑grabbing 671 bhp but also provides instantaneous torque throughout the speed range, a hallmark of electric propulsion. The result is a blisteringly fast 0‑62 mph time of 3.0 seconds, dramatically quicker than the original ICE‑powered CLA 45 that launched in 2013.

Looking Back: The 2013 AMG 45

When Mercedes‑AMG first introduced the CLA 45 in 2013, it featured a 2.0‑litre four‑valve turbocharged engine that generated 355 bhp. Even with that output, the car managed a 0‑62 mph sprint of 4.6 seconds – a performance level that bordered on super‑car territory for a compact four‑door hatchback. The new electric version not only eclipses that benchmark but also demonstrates how quickly AMG is adapting its performance ethos to the electric era.

Why the Electric Leap Matters

Mercedes‑AMG’s decision to electrify the CLA 45 reflects a broader industry trend: high‑performance manufacturers are increasingly turning to electric drivetrains to achieve power levels that are difficult to attain with conventional internal‑combustion engines. The 671 bhp output highlights how electric architecture can deliver super‑car performance in a relatively small, everyday‑compatible silhouette.

Implications for UK Buyers

For UK motorists seeking a blend of everyday practicality and extreme performance, the electric CLA 45 offers a compelling proposition. The car retains the CLA’s compact dimensions and sleek fastback styling, while the electric powertrain promises lower running costs and the potential for zero‑emission motoring – an increasingly important consideration given the UK’s tightening emissions regulations.

Dealers can expect heightened interest from enthusiasts eager to experience the torque‑filled launch characteristics of an electric AMG. As charging infrastructure expands across the UK, range‑related concerns are diminishing, making the electric CLA 45 a realistic option for both weekend track days and daily commuting.

What to Expect Going Forward

The electric CLA 45 is likely to set a new performance benchmark for future AMG electric models. Its tri‑motor layout demonstrates the flexibility of electric engineering, suggesting that further power‑train refinements could push outputs even higher without compromising the vehicle’s balance. Enthusiasts should watch for upcoming specifications on battery capacity, charging speed and possible driving‑mode selections, all of which will influence real‑world usability.

In summary, the electric Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 combines a jaw‑dropping 671 bhp with a sub‑3‑second 0‑62 mph sprint, outpacing its 2013 ICE predecessor by a wide margin. It stands as a clear illustration of how electric technology is reshaping performance car expectations, and it offers UK buyers a thrilling, future‑ready alternative to traditional hot‑hatches.