Mercedes-Benz CLA350 Exceeds EPA Range in New Testing

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA350 outperformed its EPA estimates during a recent evaluation for the MotorTrend Car of the Year.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Bold vector editorial illustration of a sleek, aerodynamic electric sedan traveling on a wide highway, representing automotive efficiency and range. — The 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA350 achieved a 374-mile range in recent highway testing, surpassing its official EPA estimates by 18 percent. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time to spend over $65,000 on a high-tech electric luxury car?

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA350 demonstrated a 374-mile range during MotorTrend's Road-Trip Range test. This performance reflects an 18 percent increase over the vehicle's official EPA rating.

Why it matters

Understanding real-world range efficiency is critical for potential EV buyers assessing charging needs and long-distance travel capabilities. The testing results offer a practical benchmark for how the vehicle functions under highway conditions.

The $66,280 vehicle charged from 5 percent to 80 percent capacity in 25 minutes, gaining 198 miles of range in the first 15 minutes of charging.

The players

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz is a German luxury automotive manufacturer that produces a wide range of premium passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles.

MotorTrend

MotorTrend is a major automotive publication that provides vehicle reviews, performance testing, and news coverage for the car industry.

The details

The Road-Trip Range test involves driving the EV from a full charge down to 5 percent battery while maintaining a steady 70 mph. The CLA350 also incorporates advanced features including an AI virtual assistant and semi-autonomous driving technology.

The vehicle is currently being evaluated for the 2027 Car of the Year competition.

Roadmap

This performance highlights the broader industry shift toward maximizing range efficiency to bridge the gap between EVs and traditional combustion engines. Mercedes-Benz plans to integrate this powertrain technology into its GLB-Class SUV lineup as it scales electric capability.

At a price of $66,280, the CLA350 positions itself as a premium option for drivers prioritizing high-speed charging capability and long range. The ability to add 198 miles in 15 minutes could significantly reduce wait times during long-distance road trips.

The takeaway

Real-world testing provides essential transparency for consumers evaluating electric vehicle capabilities beyond official estimates. Potential owners should prioritize vehicles that offer both high range and fast-charging performance to optimize their daily travel experience.