Another major brand joins the race for the affordable luxury EV

Mercedes-Benz becomes the latest luxury brand planning to launch a new entry-level EV. Here’s what we know so far.

What the Mercedes-Benz A-Class EV would look like

After pulling the A-Class from the US and Canada after the 2022 model year, Mercedes was expected to discontinue the lineup in 2025 to focus on higher profit models.

Mercedes extended production until at least 2028 after struggling to sell electric vehicles. In 2028, an entirely new fifth-generation A-Class will arrive with EV and hybrid powertrain options. The new Mercedes A-Class EV will look much like its predecessor, insider sources told Autocar, retaining its hatchback design.

The electric A-Class will not be a crossover, the sources insisted, though it will ride a bit higher than the current model to accommodate the battery pack under the floor.

“With the introduction of the GLA and GLB, we now offer far more contemporary alternatives for those seeking a car with compact dimensions and an elevated seating position,” the sources said.

Rather than trying to reinvent the hatchback design, the aim is to “evolve” it for the modern day. The style is “traditional in form but modern in detailing,” according to the insiders.

Since it will be based on the same MMA platform as the new CLA EV, the electric A-Class will have a higher ride height than the current model. All future A-Class variants, EV or hybrid, will have a higher ride height to streamline the look.

The design is expected to take cues from Mercedes’ latest models, like the new CLA and GLB, with an updated front end and grille.

Inside, the A-Class EV will feature a five-seat configuration, with a possible rear sliding bench similar to the new Kia EV2.

While Mercedes has yet to confirm any details, the new entry-level EV could be named the CSA (compact sport A-Class) when it arrives.

All powertrains, EV and hybrid, will be available with an all-wheel-drive powertrain. However, the electric version will come with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard, while the gas-powered variant will be equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) powertrain.

Like the new CLA EV, Mercedes’ new entry-level model will be equipped with an 800V electric architecture and either a 58 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) or an 85 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery. Mercedes will also launch a sporty high-performance AMG variant, which could deliver up to 500 hp.

Mercedes follows Audi, BMW, Rivian, Lucid, and a few other luxury brands planning to launch more affordable EVs over the next few years.

Audi is gearing up to introduce the A2 e-tron this fall, while Rivian and Lucid will begin production on their midsize EVs toward the end of 2026.

We will learn the prices and final specs closer to when it arrives, but the electric Audi A2 is expected to start under £30,000 ($40,000), so the Mercedes A-Class EV will likely be around the same price.