It’s a 1.5-liter four-cylinder called the M252, which is related to Mercedes’ larger 3.0-liter straight-six, the M256, but its focus is purely on efficiency. It meets the stringent new EU7 emissions standard, which will be enforced starting in 2026, which aside from exhaust will also take tire and brake emissions into account.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA is slated to be able to return 5.2 miles per kWh – among the highest efficiency levels of any EV currently on sale.