The first electric Mercedes-AMG CLA is powered by three axial flux motors.
The new AMG CLA 45 comes in both sedan and wagon body styles.
The sedan covers 416 miles on a single charge, or 19 miles more than the wagon.

The AMG CLA 45 has made its comeback in an unexpected form. The familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine is no more, giving way to a three-motor electric configuration. Despite being the entry-level Mercedes sedan, the performance levels are top-tier. It incorporates axial-flux motor tech from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe but in a smaller form, offered in sedan and wagon variants.

Merging the front motor with the pair at the rear delivers a maximum system power of 680 horsepower. The sustained output from the trio of motors is lower, standing at 612 hp. This remains highly noteworthy for an EV here and surpasses the 416 hp from the four-cylinder in the gas AMG CLA 45.

The torque is particularly remarkable: an enormous 1,298 pound-feet (1,759 Newton-meters). This exceeds three times the 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) from the prior model's engine, once the strongest four-cylinder in production vehicles. Besides the name and the variable 4Matic all-wheel drive, the vehicles share little else.

Performance is as expected, outstanding. Both sedan and wagon versions accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in exactly three seconds. While some sporty EVs face criticism for limited top speeds, these reach 168 mph (270 km/h) with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package. Without it, 155 mph (250 km/h) is still impressive.

The three axial-flux motors are fed by a 94 kWh usable lithium-ion battery. The sedan achieves over 416 miles (670 km) on the WLTP combined cycle. The wagon, being heavier and less streamlined, manages over 397 miles (640 km).

Recharging is quick thanks to 330-kW support, taking 22 minutes for 10 to 80 percent. Ten minutes of charging adds enough for more than 168 miles (270 km). For efficiency, the front motor disengages when unneeded, allowing rear-wheel-drive operation.

Now the debated aspect: the electric model includes fake gear shifts like its larger sibling. It also emulates combustion engine noises, specifically a four-cylinder rather than V8. Vibrations come from seat shakers, and the digital cluster shows gears and a tachometer.

The cabin features the usual array of screens from recent Mercedes. The rear has two seats only, not three like the standard CLA. Weight is high, as expected: the wagon at 5,060 pounds (2,295 kg), 33 lbs (15 kg) above the sedan.

Motor1's Take: While EVs are advancing globally, their draw in performance areas is questionable currently. Mercedes has not indicated plans for a gas-powered AMG CLA 45, which might appeal more to fans wanting an accessible performance luxury car.

In the meantime, the electric model may not attract enthusiasts due to its fake sounds and shifts. The speed and power are undeniable, yet more than specs matter.