New Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 2026: 500kW three-strong ‘axial flux’ motor drivetrain debuts in AMG’s baby sedan and wagon 

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Mercedes-AMG has ripped the cover off its latest electric rocketship in the new-generation CLA 45 4Matic+ in both sedan and Shooting Brake guise.

Historically, the CLA has served as a near entry-point for AMG models, and yet the new generation debuts the brand’s new ‘axial flux’ motors from the flagship GT 4-Door Coupe, with two on the rear axle and one at the front.

Earning their name from the electromagnetic flux being aligned parallel to the motor’s axis instead of at a traditional right-angle, AMG’s axial flux motors are said to be superior in both packaging and operating efficiency.

Raw performance is said to be brutal, with a 3.0-second 0-100km/h time (or 2.7 seconds with the 1-foot rollout subtracted) and 500kW of power and a massive 1759Nm of torque.

The only figure that seems to be unusually low for an AMG is the top speed of 270km/h, though this is a common limitation of most electric vehicles. 

An impressive range claim of up to 670km is quoted for the CLA 45, with the 800v sports car able to recharge at speeds of up to 330kW to top up the 94kWh battery from 10 to 80 percent in 22 minutes – in which time you’ll add 270km of driving range, according to AMG.

A 2355kg kerb weight figure is quoted for the CLA 45 which is perhaps not all that surprising given the size of the battery and the litany of technology on-board.

Active aerodynamics include radiator fins and the rear spoiler which are said to optimise both performance and efficiency, depending on the task at hand.

Adaptive suspension and massive 390 x 36 mm front brakes (350 x 22mm rear) work to enhance cornering ability, with the latter assisted by the CLA’s ability to use regenerative braking to decelerate the CLA up to 5 m/s².

The CLA 45 rolls on 19-inch wheels by default, though 20-inch forged alloys and a likely very popular ‘AMG Night Package’ are available globally as an option to add a more aggressive, darkened appearance.

Inside, the AMG team has dialed up the aggression with specific sports seats trimmed in Artico synthetic leather upholstery, with Nappa leather available as an option. 

More aggressive AMG Performance seats with tighter bolstering can be optioned for those looking to hit the track more often than not.

Mercedes’ latest generation of its MBUX multimedia system can be seen layered across the entire length of the dash, with the software ushering in integrated AI tools and track-focused display layouts to help drivers keep an eye on their key metrics and temperatures.

Official specification and pricing for the CLA 45 4Matic have yet to be outlined for Australia.