@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Tesla, Inc.
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Mercedes CLA Coupe vs Tesla Model Y – Which one offers the better deal?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes CLA Coupe or Tesla Model Y?

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

A Clash of Titans: Mercedes CLA Coupé vs Tesla Model Y

In the world of automotive excellence, few matchups intrigue like the face-off between the classic elegance of the Mercedes CLA Coupé and the cutting-edge innovation of the Tesla Model Y. Both cars are revered for their unique blend of style, performance, and technological prowess, but how do they stack up against each other? Let's delve into the technical aspects and innovations that set them apart.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Design and Body Style

The Mercedes CLA Coupé is a classic example of sleek design and timeless appeal. With a body type that exudes sophistication, the coupé offers alluring lines and an aerodynamic shape, making it a head-turner in any setting. The CLA Coupé comes with four doors and an elegant interior that comfortably seats five passengers. Its dimensions include a length of approximately 4692 mm, a width of 1834 mm, and a height around 1430 mm.

On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y embraces a more contemporary approach with its SUV body style. As an electric vehicle, it offers a distinct advantage with zero emissions, combining functionality with environmental consciousness. Also seating up to seven passengers, the Model Y’s design is characterized by minimalism and modernity. Its sizable trunk capacity of up to 854 liters provides exceptional storage. Dimensionally, it extends to a length of around 4751 mm, width of 1921 mm, and height of 1624 mm, offering more space than the CLA.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Power and Performance

The Mercedes CLA Coupé is available in several engine configurations, spanning from petrol MHEV and diesel options to plug-in hybrids. The engines deliver power outputs ranging from 150 HP up to a formidable 421 HP. With acceleration capabilities of 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.1 seconds, it's engineered for those who crave performance. Depending on the model, the CLA Coupé supports both front-wheel and all-wheel drive systems.

The Tesla Model Y stands out as a leader in electric power, offering a substantial power range from 299 HP to a robust 534 HP. With acceleration from 0-100 km/h in as short as 3.7 seconds, the Model Y is no slouch in performance. Offering AWD as well as RWD options, it leverages its electric drivetrain for instantaneous torque delivery. The Model Y’s notable electric range of up to 600 kilometers per charge provides an edge in long-distance, emission-free driving.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Efficiency and Sustainability

The CLA Coupé’s fuel consumption ranges between 4.9 and 8.9 liters per 100 km, depending on the chosen powertrain. The plug-in hybrid variant offers an electric range of 87 km, allowing for emission-free short-range trips. Despite offering an array of powertrains, its CO2 emissions start from 129 g/km, which challenges buyers to consider environmental impact alongside traditional performance benchmarks.

Conversely, the Tesla Model Y takes the trophy in sustainability with a CO2 efficiency class rated at "A" and zero emissions through its electric-only operation. It achieves energy consumption between 14.9 and 17.3 kWh per 100 km, emphasizing eco-friendly driving without the compromise of style or performance. Its vast range assures that drivers can venture further with fewer stops, a boon for road trips and city commutes alike.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Conclusion: Elegance vs. Innovation

The Mercedes CLA Coupé and Tesla Model Y represent two contrasting philosophies in the automotive world. The CLA embodies Mercedes-Benz’s longstanding heritage of luxury and performance while integrating modern hybrid technologies. The Tesla Model Y, in contrast, represents the forefront of electric vehicle innovation, championing sustainability without sacrificing power or passenger comfort.

Choosing between them depends largely on one’s inclination towards traditional elegance or cutting-edge technology. Regardless, both vehicles stand as testaments to modern automotive design and engineering excellence.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Tesla Model Y has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34300 £, while the Mercedes CLA Coupe costs 37100 £. That’s a price difference of around 2825 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Mercedes CLA Coupe: with 12.20 kWh per 100 km, it’s minimal more efficient than the Tesla Model Y with 13.10 kWh. That’s a difference of about 0.90 kWh.

As for range, the Mercedes CLA Coupe performs noticeable better – achieving up to 791 km, about 169 km more than the Tesla Model Y.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Tesla Model Y has a evident edge – offering 627 HP compared to 421 HP. That’s roughly 206 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model Y is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Mercedes CLA Coupe takes 4.10 s. That’s about 0.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes CLA Coupe performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Tesla Model Y tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes CLA Coupe pulls minimal stronger with 515 Nm compared to 493 Nm. That’s about 22 Nm difference.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes CLA Coupe is noticeable lighter – 1505 kg compared to 1976 kg. The difference is around 471 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Tesla Model Y offers clearly more room – 822 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 362 L.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes CLA Coupe minimal takes the win – 490 kg compared to 472 kg. That’s a difference of about 18 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Tesla Model Y proves to be leads convincingly overall and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Tesla Model Y is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £34,300
Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Tesla Model Y

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 299 - 627 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 13.1 - 16.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 534 - 622 km

Mercedes CLA Coupe

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupé exudes sophistication with its sleek, aerodynamic design that effortlessly combines elegance and sportiness. Inside, the cabin offers a luxurious experience, featuring high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology that ensure both comfort and connectivity for the driver and passengers. On the road, the CLA Coupé delivers a dynamic driving performance, characterised by responsive handling and a smooth ride, making it a joy to drive both in the city and on long journeys.

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Tesla Model Y

4.3 (3)
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The Tesla Model Y blends SUV practicality with sports-car poke, wrapping a roomy, minimalist cabin and handy hatch into a slick, aerodynamic package that feels more Silicon Valley gadget than garage ornament. It’s an ideal pick for buyers who want effortless electric driving, regular software improvements and access to Tesla’s convenient charging network, though style-conscious shoppers should know it’s more about tech and efficiency than classic luxury.

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Mercedes CLA Coupe
Tesla Model Y
CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Costs and Consumption

Price
37100 - 73700 £
Price
34300 - 53100 £
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 8.9 L
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
12.2 - 12.6 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
13.1 - 16.2 kWh
Electric Range
86 - 791 km
Electric Range
534 - 622 km
Battery Capacity
12.9 - 85 kWh
Battery Capacity
64.5 - 85 kWh
co2
0 - 202 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Coupe
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
4
Doors
5
Curb weight
1505 - 2135 kg
Curb weight
1976 - 2108 kg
Trunk capacity
395 - 460 L
Trunk capacity
822 L
Length
4692 - 4723 mm
Length
4790 - 4797 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Width
1921 mm
Height
1404 - 1468 mm
Height
1611 - 1624 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
2022 - 2138 L
Payload
440 - 490 kg
Payload
440 - 472 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol, Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
299 - 627 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 7.2 s
Max Speed
205 - 270 km/h
Max Speed
201 - 250 km/h
Torque
230 - 515 Nm
Torque
420 - 493 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
220 - 461 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Tesla
What drive types are available for the Mercedes CLA Coupe?

The Mercedes CLA Coupe is available as Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.