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Mercedes CLA Coupe vs Tesla Model Y comparison

Compare performance (354 HP vs 460 HP), boot space and price (39,600 £ vs 34,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes CLA Coupe or Tesla Model Y?

Mercedes CLA Coupe vs Tesla Model Y: Key differences

Mercedes CLA Coupe

4.8 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • marginally more efficient
  • visibly more electric range
  • moderately lighter
details

Tesla Model Y

4.5 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • moderately cheaper
  • visibly more power
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • substantially more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

CLA Coupe

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

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

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

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

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.

Frequently compared as well

Tesla Model Y
Toyota C-HR+
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CLA Coupe

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Tesla Model Y is moderately cheaper – starting at 34,300 £ , while the Mercedes CLA Coupe costs 39,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,359 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Mercedes CLA Coupe is marginally more efficient: consuming 12.2 kWh/100km compared to 13.1 kWh/100km for the Tesla Model Y. That’s a difference of about 0.9 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes CLA Coupe offers visibly more range – reaching up to 791 km, about 169 km more than the Tesla Model Y.

Model Y

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 offers visibly more power – delivering 460 HP compared to 354 HP. That’s roughly 106 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model Y is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 3.5 s, while the Mercedes CLA Coupe takes 4.9 s. That’s about 1.4 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Tesla Model Y delivers noticeably more torque with 660 Nm compared to 515 Nm. That’s about 145 Nm more.

CLA Coupe

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Tesla Model Y offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes CLA Coupe is moderately lighter – 1,695 kg compared to 1,976 kg. The difference is around 281 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Tesla Model Y offers substantially more boot space – 836 L compared to 405 L. That’s a difference of about 431 L.

When it comes to payload, the Tesla Model Y carries marginally more – 472 kg compared to 455 kg. That’s a difference of about 17 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Tesla Model Y stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £34,300
Model Y

Tesla Model Y

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 299 - 460 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 13.1 - 16.2 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 534 - 622 km
details
Mercedes CLA Coupe
Tesla Model Y

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mercedes CLA Coupe

The Mercedes CLA Coupe cuts a rakish silhouette that blends sporty coupe lines with everyday practicality, giving style-minded buyers a premium image without shouting. Inside it feels more luxurious than its size suggests, with a slick cabin, intuitive tech and a composed ride — the kind of car that parties in the city and still shows up polished on Sunday morning.

details
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19C0225_068
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Reviews Mercedes CLA Coupe

4.8 (2 Reviews)
rate
marco
12 Mar 2026, 18:44:45

A car with a unique line — the shooting brake finally gets a sporty rear and a roomy trunk.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Dejf
18 Dec 2025, 14:59:40

Nice efficient car. Like it

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a tech‑forward family SUV that marries blistering efficiency with enormous interior space, calm motorway manners and the obvious convenience of Tesla’s charging ecosystem and over‑the‑air updates. Its minimalist, screen‑centric cabin and rather firm ride — plus limited rear visibility and the absence of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto — are trade‑offs that will bother buyers who prioritise comfort or traditional ergonomics.

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0x0-ModelY_07
0x0-ModelY_01
0x0-ModelY_17
0x0-ModelY_19

Reviews Tesla Model Y

4.5 (5 Reviews)
rate
Franz
15 Sept 2025, 11:46:15

The Model Y has the perfect range for me!!!

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Mercedes CLA Coupe
Tesla Model Y

Costs and Consumption
Price
39,600 - 59,300 £
Price
34,300 - 53,100 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
12.2 - 12.6 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
13.1 - 16.2 kWh/100km
Electric Range
542 - 791 km
Electric Range
534 - 622 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 120 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Coupe
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,695 - 2,135 kg
Curb weight
1,976 - 2,108 kg
Trunk capacity
405 L
Trunk capacity
822 - 836 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,855 mm
Width
1,920 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
430 - 455 kg
Payload
435 - 472 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
156 - 354 HP
Power HP
299 - 460 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 8.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 7.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
280 - 515 Nm
Torque
420 - 660 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
115 - 260 kW
Power kW
220 - 338 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C, D
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Tesla
What drivetrain options does the Mercedes CLA Coupe have?

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

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.