Mercedes-Benz CLA

The fully redesigned CLA compact sedan will be offered in both electric and hybrid versions. The all-electric variant comes in either rear- or all-wheel drive and promises a driving range close to 350 miles and ultra-fast charging from an 85-kWh battery. The rear-drive CLA 250+ has a 268-hp electric motor, while the CLA 350 4Matic makes 349 horsepower and can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, according to the automaker. The hybrid version will go on sale later. It pairs a 1.5-liter gas engine with a battery and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission integrated with an electric motor. Every CLA will get cloud-based infotainment features and the ability to download over-the-air software updates, including ones that can upgrade active safety and driver assistance technology.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA fits below the C-Class in Mercedes' sedan lineup. It's essentially a more stylish version of the discontinued A-Class. The 221-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is coupled to a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic. Acceleration feels hesitant in around-town driving, but the engine's decent power is delivered more urgently at higher revs. Although handling is nimble, the ride is too stiff. The interior is nicely finished, and the front seats are supportive, but the rear seat is extremely cramped and hard to access.