Mercedes-AMG CLA EV spied with minimal camouflage internationally. Take a peek…
Notify me
As the standard Mercedes-Benz CLA EV is still rolling out in select markets, the high-performance AMG variant is already taking shape. New spy shots reveal the development of the AMG-tuned version is in full swing, with several design elements and performance features now visible beneath the thinning camouflage.
2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA EV: Design
Up front, the AMG version Sports a reworked bumper with large air intakes and a new central opening featuring a distinct mesh pattern. While the details are still partially obscured, key differences from the regular CLA EV include an enclosed grille and Mercedes' signature 'starry" LED headlights.
Along the sides, sportier side skirts and lightweight wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires point to the AMG's performance intentions. Behind the wheels sits a heavy-duty braking system with red callipers at the front, while AMG badging can be spotted on the front fenders, a subtle nod to its more serious capabilities.
The rear design appears relatively restrained at first glance, but closer inspection reveals an active spoiler. A tweaked rear bumper and diffuser setup are also expected to distinguish the AMG model from its standard sibling, contributing both to downforce and visual aggression.
Also Read : Mercedes-Benz AMG GT XX Concept unveiled with 360 kmph top speed 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA EV: Interior
Spy photographers weren't able to capture a clear view of the cabin, but based on AMG's typical approach, we can expect a minimalist layout with performance cues like a flat-bottom steering wheel and exclusive trim. Tech features are likely to include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment display, and a matching 14-inch passenger screen. 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA EV: Expected powertrain
While Mercedes remains quiet on specifications, earlier reports hint at serious firepower under the skin. The AMG CLA EV is rumoured to feature axial flux motors developed by Mercedes' Yasa subsidiary, with a potential tri-motor layout producing over 493 bhp. If true, that would put it in direct contention with the Tesla Model 3 Performance, which delivers 503 bhp and a 0 to 100 kmph time of 2.9 seconds.
Also Read : Mercedes AMG GT 63, GT 63 Pro to launch on June 27. Here's everything we know so far
Adding a touch of drama, the performance CLA EV is also expected to come with a 'V8 Mode' that mimics the sound of an internal combustion engine, specifically a V8, offering a nostalgic aural experience for enthusiasts. A unique AMG-specific battery pack is also expected, though technical details remain under wraps. 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA EV: Expected reveal and rivals
While a debut date hasn't been confirmed, the steady progress and decreasing camouflage suggest the AMG CLA EV could be revealed later this year or in early 2026. Once launched, it will take aim at high-performance electric sedans like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and BMW i4 M50.
Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India.
First Published Date: 27 Jun 2025, 11:32 AM IST
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Indian Express
6 hours ago
- New Indian Express
Tesla's India debut: Weighing the risks and rewards
CHENNAI: Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its Model Y, marking a major milestone after years of anticipation. The company opened its first experience centre in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex on Tuesday (July 15). The Model Y rear-wheel drive variant is priced at approximately ₹60 lakh, while the Long Range version is around ₹68–70 lakh. Deliveries are expected to begin later in 2025. India's electric vehicle (EV) market is still in its early stages, with EVs comprising about 4–5% of total vehicle sales. However, the premium segment is growing steadily, showing signs of maturing demand among affluent urban consumers. Tesla's entry is expected to benefit from this trend, especially as more Indians seek high-performance, tech-forward EVs. Import duties in India remain a significant barrier. Fully built EVs attract import taxes ranging from 70% to 110%. However, the government now offers lower import duty (as low as 15%) if the manufacturer commits to investing at least $500 million and sets up local production. Tesla has not yet announced any local manufacturing plans, but entering through the concessional import route suggests it may be evaluating longer-term commitments. Tesla's brand value and technology leadership in areas like over-the-air software updates, battery performance, and Autopilot give it a competitive edge in the luxury EV space. The Model Y's reputation as a reliable, feature-rich SUV works in its favour, particularly for urban Indian buyers who value innovation and sustainability. Challenges remain. Tesla's pricing makes the Model Y accessible only to a small, affluent section of Indian buyers. The average price of a car in India is under ₹20 lakh, so Tesla's offering is firmly in the luxury bracket. Additionally, Tesla will need to address infrastructure gaps, including the lack of a robust public charging network. While the company plans to install Superchargers in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, nationwide coverage will take time. Tesla also faces stiff competition from established premium carmakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which have already launched EVs in India. Newer players like BYD and VinFast are entering the space with aggressive pricing and government support. Meanwhile, homegrown automakers like Tata Motors and Mahindra are expanding their EV offerings at lower price points. Despite these challenges, Tesla's entry is a positive signal for India's EV ecosystem. It validates the market's potential and could push policy and infrastructure developments further. If Tesla commits to local manufacturing in the coming years, it could expand its customer base and improve price competitiveness. In the short term, Tesla will likely remain a niche player, targeting early adopters and wealthy urban consumers. Long-term success will depend on local production, better infrastructure, and more competitive pricing. In conclusion, the Indian auto market shows positive signs for the Tesla Model Y, but the path ahead involves navigating price sensitivity, policy hurdles, and strong competition. Tesla's success will rely on its ability to transition from a prestige brand to a more locally embedded, accessible EV player.
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Time of India
Tesla sets foot in India with Rs 61 lakh Model Y
MUMBAI: Tesla is finally here. The electric car giant run by Elon Musk opened its first India showroom in Mumbai's BKC on Tuesday. Musk had set his eyes on India since at least 2015, but high tariffs, limited flexibility, and charging infrastructure challenges, kept Tesla away from the country, which the company had described as a hard market. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now While bookings opened on Tuesday, deliveries of Model Y SUVs, prices for which start at Rs 61-lakh on-road (500km range), will begin in Oct. A 'long-range' (622km) Model Y variant will be available from Jan 2026 with an on-road price tag of just over Rs 69 lakh. For context, BMW iX1 LWB electric SUV is priced at about Rs 51 lakh on-road, and Mercedes-Benz EQA electric SUV costs just over Rs 70 lakh. Users will have a simple 'plug and charge experience' with superchargers adding up to 267km range in 15 minutes. A wall-connected home charger (70km in 1 hour) will be provided with every car. "The Tesla Model Y, available in six colours, is a compact electric SUV with a spacious interior, ample boot space , and a minimalist design. It features a touchscreen interface, 'autopilot' driver-assistance, and over-the-air software updates for the car," a Tesla executive said at the launch. Model Y's features include a bumper camera that covers blind spots during rides. At present, Tesla EVs sold in India will be imported and have limited 'autopilot' features - automatic emergency braking system, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Tesla's experience centre at BKC, where Apple opened its first store in 2023, is seen as a way to test the waters with its retail strategy - to evaluate consumer interest and market potential. Tesla is now preparing to expand its presence by opening a showroom in Delhi. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It plans to expand to other cities as well. Sources said that in the past, there were reports of Tesla exploring plans for setting up a factory in India, but the talks stalled in 2023. Asked about plans to set up a manufacturing unit in the country this time, an executive at the new showroom declined to comment. Musk has consistently advocated for reduced duties to enhance affordability, the Indian govt maintains its stance on local manufacturing commitments. Tesla regional director Isabel Fan said, "It will all be 100% ownership and no franchisee for any showroom. Also, India has incredible talent and we are hiring local people. We have brought here Model Y - the best-selling vehicle in 2023-24."
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Time of India
Tesla Too Late?
Musk's EV is here finally, but starting production in India 10 years ago would have served him better There's a tide in the affairs of men… Brutus says in Julius Caesar. Elon Musk, who's quoted from The Tempest before, might have heard. His Tesla 'took the current' on Tuesday to launch its India operation. The world's largest manufacturer of battery-electric cars – Chinese BYD was a sliver behind in 2024 – now has a showroom in Mumbai, and little more. Reports say six fully built Tesla Model Ys are on the way from Shanghai. On-road prices start around ₹61L, putting the midsize SUV in the luxury segment, where the likes of Mercedes, BMW and Volvo will keep it company. But this segment amounted to only 50,000 units last year, of which 75% were petrol or diesel vehicles. And sales in the first six months of 2025 have been weak. Tesla's fighting for a pie that amounts to 10,000-12,000 units per year, and analysts expect it to sell not more than 200-300 units per month. Which, considering that it sold about 1.8mn cars globally in 2024, is nothing. So, what's Musk's plan really? Some see it as an attempt to gauge the Indian market. As far as brand-building goes, Tesla is too well-known already. Back in 2016, when it was a much smaller company, and Musk's net worth was less than $12bn, Indian tycoons proudly announced they had booked the newly launched Model 3 online. The cars didn't materialise, but fans kept the faith. Musk also maintained India was on his mind: 'Hoping for summer this year (2017)'. Winter arrived, and one man imported a model X on his own – its eight-year battery warranty would be running out now. So, brand strength has never been Tesla's problem. What it needs is a business plan, and 10 years ago Musk had a stronger one. 'Given high local demand, a Gigafactory in India would probably make sense in the long term,' he tweeted in Oct 2015, years before he set up that factory in Shanghai instead. It was a good idea, which, 'taken at the flood' may have led to better fortune for both India and Musk. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email This piece appeared as an editorial opinion in the print edition of The Times of India.
