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Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model 3

Comparing the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA (from $47,250) with the 2025 Tesla Model 3 (from $36,990). The CLA offers 374 miles of range while the Model 3 offers 321 miles.

Quick Take

Mercedes-Benz CLA charges fastest, while Tesla Model 3 hauls the most gear.

Mercedes-Benz CLA

2026Sedan

Mercedes-Benz CLA

Fastest Charger

  • 22 min 10-80% DC fast charge
  • 320 kW peak charging speed
  • NACS charging port
  • Up to 374 mi EPA-rated range
Tesla Model 3

2025Sedan

Tesla Model 3

Most Cargo Space

  • 24 cu ft cargo capacity
  • Seats 5
  • 184.8" long
Price
$47,250 - $49,800
$36,990 - $54,990
Range
312-374 miles
309-363 miles
Horsepower
268-349 hp
258 hp
0-60 mph
4.8-6.6 sec
2.9-5.8 sec
Battery Size
85 kWh
82 kWh
Drive Type
RWD
RWD
Seats
5
5
Top Speed
130 mph
125-163 mph
Towing Capacity
Unknown
Unknown
DC Fast Charging
22 min (10-80%)
30 min (10-80%)
Level 2 Charging
8 hrs (0-100%)
8 hrs (0-100%)
Length
185.9"
184.8"
Width
73"
72.8"
Height
57.8"
56.8"
Cargo Capacity
14.3 cu ft
24 cu ft

Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model 3: Which Should You Buy?

The Tesla Model 3 starts at $36,990, undercutting the Mercedes-Benz CLA ($47,250) by about $10,500.

In its longest-range configuration the Mercedes-Benz CLA covers up to 374 miles, 11 more than the Tesla Model 3's maximum of 363. At a DC fast charger, the Mercedes-Benz CLA goes from 10-80% in about 22 minutes vs 30 for the Tesla Model 3.

The Tesla Model 3 offers 24 cu ft of cargo space vs 14.3 for the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

Bottom line: pick the Mercedes-Benz CLA if you want the shortest charging stops, or the Tesla Model 3 if cargo space is king.

Other Cars to Compare

Explore how these similar EVs stack up against the vehicles above.

Compare Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model 3 - Discover EVs | Discover EVs