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.

Class lays the groundwork for the automaker’s future, while a hybrid provides a stepping stone for wary customers.

Mercedes-Benz is showing off its all-electric CLA prototype and sharing a few new details planned for the upcoming 2025 production version. The CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group, Ola Källenius, provides a limited tour of the car, in which he talks to its new AI assistant, and takes it for a spin in a new video posted by the automaker.

Initiator of Benz's next generation of small products will derive motivation from a pair of in-house developed powerunits made-up of a mild-hybrid and a full electric.

New Mercedes CLA to get hybrid and all electric powertrain options. Tap for new Mercedes CLA hybrid and EV details, which will rival the BMW 2 Series.

All-electric versions come in single- and dual-motor forms and are targeting a 466-mile range, while hybrids use 1.5-liter Miller-cycle engine