India is witnessing a rapid increase in the EV segment with leading manufacturers introducing top-rated models that combine premium appeal and sustainability. Among these models, the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and Volvo EX30 deserve special mention due to their distinct yet premium features.
Both models are fully electric but cater to the needs of different vehicle enthusiasts. CLA EV features a longer range, sleek design, and advanced technology. On the other hand, the EX30 is a compact SUV, featuring practical and minimalistic features with a notable emphasis on safety and comfort.
Before selecting any of these two models, you should have a clear understanding of their features, engines, performance, comfort, safety, and pricing options. Here’s more on it!
Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EX30: Dimensions
Dimensions of a vehicle help assess its capacity, space, and comfort to some extent. Among these two cars, the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV is longer and wider than the Volvo EX30, offering a luxury sedan look. On the other hand, the Volvo EX30 emerges as a compact crossover, presenting style and practicality.
Here is a tabular comparison of the dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and the Volvo EX30:
| Dimensions | Mercedes CLA EV | Volvo EX30 |
| Length | 4,723 mm | 4,233 mm |
| Width | 1,855 mm | 1,838 mm |
| Height | 1,468 mm | 1,550 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,790 mm | 2,650 mm |
| Boot Space | — | — |
| Ground Clearance | — | — |
The CLA EV comes with a longer body than the EX30, providing superior stability and interior stretch, which is ideal for highway trips. On the other hand, EX30 is shorter in length and width than the former, which is ideal for city rides. The compact size makes parking in busy spaces easier.
The wider CLA EV offers larger shoulder room than the EX30. However, EX30 is taller than the CLA EV, which helps absorb bumps on uneven roads and improves visibility. It also provides ample legroom for taller occupants, making it easier for them to enter the car.
EX30 is capable of tackling the rough Indian roads with potholes, while the CLA EV excels in efficiency and aerodynamics. The Volvo EX30 is well-suited to versatile urban driving, while the CLA EV is best suited for executive use.
Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EX30: Engine & Performance
The engine and transmission of a vehicle play a crucial role in assessing its overall performance. Both models include permanent magnet synchronous motors and automatic transmission for enhanced EV performance.
The table below draws a comparison between the CLA EV’s and the EX30’s engines and performance:
| Engine & Performance | Mercedes CLA EV | Volvo EX30 |
| Engine or Motor Options | Permanent Magnet Synchronous | Permanent Magnet Synchronous |
| Transmission Options | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power | — | 272 bhp |
| Torque | — | 343 Nm |
| Range / Mileage | 792 km | 480 km |
The identical permanent synchronous motors in the CLA EV and EX30 ensure responsive, efficient EV performance, delivering smooth torque on both city roads and highways. The Volvo EX30 delivers strong acceleration with its 272 bhp power and 343 Nm torque.
On the other hand, the CLA EV offers a 792 km range, almost double the Volvo EX30’s 480 km. Thus, CLA offers excellent performance in long distances without any need for frequent battery charging.
Both these models prioritise driving ease and robust performance. While the EX30 suits compact yet powerful performance, the CLA EV is the king of endurance.
Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EX30: Features & Comfort
When it comes to comfort and features, both the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and the Volvo EX30 offer a lot. One includes a larger infotainment screen, while the other features a premium music system. Checking the comfort and features of a model is essential for ensuring that it can make your long journey pleasant and comfortable.
Take a look at the table below for a detailed comparison of the CLA EV’s and EX30’s comfort and features:
| Features & Comfort | Mercedes CLA EV | Volvo EX30 |
| Infotainment | 14” Touch-screen Display | 12.3” Touch-screen Display |
| Music System | — | Harman Kardon Sound System |
| Climate Control | — | Automatic, 2-zone |
| Ventilated Seats | — | — |
| Adjustable Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Drive Modes | RWD | RWD |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital | — |
| Adjustable Seats (Manual or Electric) | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | Fixed Glass Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | 40:20:40 | 60:40 |
| Cruise Control | — | Yes |
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV features a superior 14” infotainment screen, a versatile 40:20:40 rear split, rear AC vents, etc., to provide you with a comfortable journey. On the other hand, the Volvo EX30 includes a premium Harman Kardon audio system, dual-zone climate control, and cruise control, offering functionality alongside comfort.
The CLA EV offers an expansive display and digital instrumentation to help drivers navigate properly. Moreover, the flexible rear seating provides ample space for luggage on family trips. On the other hand, EX30 excels in its audio system, with precise climate zoning and cruise control, offering a relaxed highway drive on long trips.
Both models come with adjustable seats and steering, panoramic sunroofs, and rear vents to provide a perfect balance of passenger comfort and luxury. However, the CLA EV is more technologically advanced and best suited for tech enthusiasts, while the the EX30 offers refinement for daily use.
Also Read: Best Volvo SUV Cars in India
Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EX30: Safety Features
When choosing a car, it is important to consider safety features to ensure your on-road security. Both the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and the Volvo EX30 offer unmatched safety features to keep their occupants secure from on-road threats and challenges.
Here is a tabular representation of the safety features of CLA EV and Ex30:
| Safety Features | Mercedes CLA EV | Volvo EX30 |
| GNCAP Safety Rating | — | 5-Star |
| Airbags | 7 | 7 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | — | — |
| Traction Control | Yes | — |
| Automatic Headlamps | — | — |
| Rain-sensing Wipers | — | — |
| Hill Hold Assist | — | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | — | Yes |
| Rear Sensors | Both Front and Rear | Yes |
| Rear Parking Camera | 360 Degree Camera | 360 Degree Camera |
| ISOFIX Child Seat and Anchor Points | Yes | Yes |
| ADAS | — | Yes |
Both the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and the Volvo EX30 prioritise the safety of occupants and pedestrians. They include advanced features such as a 360-degree parking camera for full visibility, front and rear sensors, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and airbags.
Though the CLA EV has more airbags (7) than the EX30 (6), the latter stands out for its 5-Star GNCAP rating, hill hold assist, hill descent control, and ADAS. Thus, EX30 ensures crash protection and better traction on slopes. On the other hand, extra airbags in the CLA EV ensure passenger protection, and traction control enhances grip.
The EX30’s ADAS features offer proactive alerts and excellent manoeuvring. Rated with 5 stars by GNCAP, EX30 offers comprehensive safety, while CLA EV is known for its robust fundamentals.
Also Read: Mercedes-Benz Cars in India
Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EX30: Price Comparison
When it comes to pricing, the Volvo EX30 is more affordable than the CLA EV. However, the CLA EV has more variants than the EV 30, with three models. The Volvo EX30 marks the premium EV entry, while the CLA EV reflects luxury and efficiency.
The table below compares the pricing of CLA EV and Volvo EX30’s variants:
| Variant | Mercedes CLA EV | Volvo EX30 |
| Base | CLA Electric 200₹55 Lakh | EX30 RWD Ultra₹41 Lakh |
| Mid | CLA Electric 250 Plus₹59 Lakh | |
| Top | CLA 250 Plus Launch Edition₹64 Lakh |
The Volvo EX30 has only one variant, the RWD Ultra, which starts at ₹41 Lakh. On the other hand, CLA EV has three variants, with a starting price of ₹55 Lakh. For budget EV buyers, EX30 is an ideal pick.
However, if you seek a premium class with an extended range of 792 km, the CLA EV presents you with three top picks. The base model is the CLA Electric 200 with a starting price of ₹55 Lakh; mid-range includes the 250 Plus with a price of ₹59 Lakh; and the top-selling model is the 250 Plus Launch Edition, with a price of ₹64 Lakh.
Summary
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and the Volvo EX30 are both luxury electric vehicles, but they are made for different types of buyers.
People who care most about design, a long driving range, and a high-tech cabin experience will love the CLA EV. It is best for city workers and people who use it for long distances who want something that looks good and works well.
The EX30, on the other hand, is a great choice for people who want a small, useful SUV that performs well and puts safety first. This is a great entry-level luxury EV because it is cheaper and can do a lot of different things.
In the end, the choice is up to you. The CLA EV is the better choice if you want a sleek, efficient electric sedan. The EX30 is the better choice if you want a small, safe, and useful electric SUV.
Also Read: Comparison: Mercedes CLA EV vs Volvo EC40
FAQs about Mercedes-Benz CLA EV vs Volvo EX30
Q. Which is more affordable, the CLA EV or the EX30?
The CLA EV’s base model, the CLA Electric 200, has a starting price of ₹55 Lakh. On the other hand, the Volvo EX30 has a single variant, RWD Ultra, with a starting price of ₹41 Lakh. Therefore, the Volvo EX30 is more affordable than the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV.
Q/ Which model is safer, the CLA EV or the EX30?
Both CLA EV and EX30 come with multiple safety features like airbags, traction control, adjustable steering, ABS with EBD, etc. However, EX30 has a 5-star safety rating from GNCAP, ensuring crash protection.
Q. What are the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV’s dimensions?
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV measures 4723 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1468 mm in height. The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV has a wheelbase of 2790 mm.
