Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology vs Tesla Model 3
Buy the Tesla Model 3 for the stronger all-round Decoder Score (79/100). Choose the Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology if you road-trip and want faster charging.
75 Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology EPA + mfr data | 79 Tesla Model 3 EPA + mfr data | |
|---|---|---|
| Decoder Score | 75 | 79 |
| Starting price | $47,250 | $42,490 |
| Used from | — | $24,000 |
| EPA range | 374 mi | 341 mi |
| Real-world range | — | 223 mi |
| Battery | 85 kWh | 75 kWh |
| Efficiency | 3.7 mi/kWh | 4 mi/kWh |
| DC fast charge | 320 kW | 250 kW |
| Level 2 charge | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 14.3 cu ft | 23 cu ft |
| 0–60 mph | 6.6s | 4.2s |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 394 hp |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Towing | — | — |
| Battery warranty | 10 yr | 8 yr |
| Tax credit | No | May qualify |
| Owner rating | — | 4.5/5 |
| Best for | Commuter, Road Trip, Value, Luxury | Commuter, Road Trip |
Price
The Tesla Model 3 starts lower at $42,490, versus $47,250 for the other. On the used market both have come down — check current listings before deciding.
Range
The Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology leads on EPA range at 374 mi. In the real world both land around 82% of that in mixed driving — run your conditions through the range calculator.
Charging
The Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology peaks higher at 320 kW, which shortens road-trip stops. Also check plug type: NACS access to the Supercharger network can matter more than a few kW.
Interior & practicality
The Tesla Model 3 offers more cargo room (23 cu ft). Consider seating layout and rear space too, not just the headline number.
Performance
The Tesla Model 3 is quicker to 60 mph (4.2s). Both feel brisk in everyday driving thanks to instant electric torque.
Family use
With 5 seats, the Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology suits larger families better. Factor in car-seat access and cargo behind the third row if fitted.
Road trip use
Road trips reward range plus fast charging. The Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology scores higher on our road-trip metric.
Used buyer notes
Both depreciate; that's the used buyer's opportunity. Check battery health, any open recalls, and that the charging port matches the network you'll use. See the used EV buying guide for a full checklist.
Tesla Model 3, for most people.
Run the numbers for your own driving with the calculators, then compare more EVs in the same class.