Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Price, range, specs compared

Mercedes-Benz India recently launched the new Mercedes-Benz CLA electric in the Indian market. The price for the new CLA starts from Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most affordable Mercedes-Benz you can buy in the Indian market. Interested customers can book the new CLA online or at their nearest dealership. Mercedes says it has already received over 400 bookings. In this article, let’s compare the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV with the Tesla Model Y.

Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Price, Variants

The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in three variants: CLA 200 Standard Range Progressive Line, priced at Rs 55 lakh, and CLA 250+ Long Range AMG Line, priced at Rs 59 lakh. There’s also the CLA 250+ Long Range Launch Edition, offered in limited numbers and priced at Rs 64 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).

The Tesla Model Y is also offered in three variants - Premium RWD priced at Rs 59.89 lakh, Model Y Premium long range priced at Rs 67.89 lakh and recently launched Model Y L Premium AWD priced at Rs 61.99 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). The CLA range starts lower at Rs 55 lakh, undercutting the Model Y’s entry price. However, the top-end CLA (Rs 64 lakh) sits below the Model Y Long Range (Rs 67.89 lakh) but above the AWD variant (Rs 61.99 lakh).

Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Dimensions

Comparing the dimensions next, the Seal measures 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a 2,920 mm wheelbase. The Tesla Model Y measures 4,790 mm in length, 1,982 mm in width, and 1,642 mm in height, with a 2,890 mm wheelbase. (Dimensions of regular Model Y, not the long wheelbase version). The BYD Seal is longer and has a longer wheelbase, while the Tesla Model Y is significantly wider and taller.



Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Battery, range
The CLA electric gets two battery pack options - an 85kWh NMC battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor, which produces 272hp and 335Nm, and has a claimed 0-100kph time of 6.7 seconds. It has a WLTP-claimed range of up to 792km, and it also gets a two-speed gearbox. Another option is a 58kWh battery with a WLTP-claimed range of up to 542km. It is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 224hp and 335Nm, with a claimed 0-100kph time of 7.5 seconds. The CLA EV supports fast charging at up to 320kW through its 800V architecture, enabling a 300km range top-up in 10 minutes. Mercedes has also increased ground clearance and revised the suspension for Indian conditions.

The Tesla Model Y is offered in three battery pack options - 60 kWh paired with 235 hp, rear-mounted electric motor with 500 km claimed range, 75 kWh paired with 335 hp, rear-mounted electric motor with claimed range of 661 km and 88 kWh paired with dual motors with claimed range of 681 km.

Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Features

Moving inside, the CLA electric features a minimalist, screen-focused cabin that prioritises technology and usability. The highlight of the cabin is a dual-screen layout consisting of a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls, while a carbon-fibre finish on the centre console adds a sportier visual touch. Features include 64-colour ambient lighting, a 16-speaker Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos, heated, ventilated and powered front seats, wireless charging, six 100W USB-C fast-charging ports, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car tech, latest MBUX with Ai integration and more.

The top-spec Model Y long wheelbase features a six-seat configuration in a 2+2+2 layout, heated and ventilated seats for both the front and second row, a heated steering wheel, a 16-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual wireless charging pads, extended under-thigh support for the front seats, and pillar-mounted rear AC vents.