Mercedes-AMG has introduced its most powerful compact electric vehicle to date, the 2027 CLA 45 4MATIC+, at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom. The high-performance coupe delivers 680 horsepower and 1,759 Newton-meters of torque from a tri-motor axial-flux powertrain, setting new benchmarks for acceleration and charging speed in its segment.
Performance and Powertrain
The CLA 45 4MATIC+ marks a milestone as the first Mercedes-AMG production model to integrate three axial-flux electric motors—one positioned at the front axle and two at the rear. This configuration produces a combined output of 500 kilowatts (680 hp) and 1,759 Nm of torque, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 2.7 seconds under testing conditions that include a one-foot rollout. The electronically limited top speed is set at 250 km/h (155 mph), with an optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package increasing this to 269 km/h (167 mph).
The vehicle’s 800-volt electrical architecture supports ultra-fast charging at up to 330 kW, allowing the 94 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes. A 10-minute charge provides an additional range of over 270 kilometers, while the standard multi-source heat pump ensures optimal battery conditioning during high-speed charging and driving. Mercedes-AMG attributes the CLA 45’s estimated WLTP range of 670 kilometers to its aerodynamic design, which includes active aerodynamic elements to minimize drag.
Aerodynamic Innovations
The CLA 45 4MATIC+ incorporates several advanced aerodynamic features to enhance both performance and efficiency. An active rear spoiler adjusts its position dynamically based on speed, driving mode, and acceleration to either improve stability or reduce aerodynamic drag. Additionally, the vehicle’s active radiator fins can remain closed at speeds up to 250 km/h, depending on cooling requirements, further optimizing airflow and efficiency.
The 94 kWh battery pack, an upgrade from the 84 kWh unit in the standard CLA model, plays a critical role in achieving the extended range. However, Mercedes-AMG has not disclosed specific details about the battery’s chemistry, supplier, or real-world efficiency compared to competitors in the high-performance electric vehicle segment.
Market Position and Unresolved Questions
The CLA 45 4MATIC+ enters a competitive market segment dominated by established high-performance electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan Turbo S. While the Mercedes-AMG model matches or exceeds its rivals in power output and charging speed, key details such as pricing, market availability, and the long-term durability of its axial-flux motors remain unannounced. The company has also not provided official statements from Kimi Antonelli, the rising Formula 1 star who piloted the vehicle during its Goodwood debut, regarding his impressions of the car.
The unveiling at Goodwood underscores Mercedes-AMG’s commitment to merging motorsport engineering with electric vehicle technology. The CLA 45’s combination of rapid acceleration, extended range, and fast-charging capabilities positions it as a flagship model in the brand’s electrification strategy. However, its success will ultimately depend on consumer response and the scalability of its advanced powertrain technology.
