Mercedes-Benz's second-most affordable model, the CLA, is entering its third generation in 2026, aiming to set a new benchmark for compact luxury cars with hybrid and electric powertrains, as well as extensive tech and customization features. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will also set a new standard for the German automaker, as every new Mercedes model from this point forward will be available with both electric and hybrid options.
Mercedes is dropping the "EQ" moniker from its electric vehicles (EVs) and, from now on, will refer to its models with electric powertrains as "EQ Technology." The first models will be electric versions of the CLA, including the CLA 250+ and the CLA 350 4Matic. Mercedes plans to introduce more electric models in the future.
After launching the EVs, the company will release two hybrid models, offering customers the choice between front-wheel (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). All these vehicles will roll off the production line at Mercedes-Benz's carbon-neutral plant in Rastatt, Germany, with estimated prices around $50,000 to $60,000.
Hybrid and electric CLAs look similar, with only a few distinguishing details. They both retain the CLA's bulbous, fastback shape, although the new model is slightly longer than its predecessor. The electric variants feature an A-shaped grille with 142 individually illuminated LED chrome-effect stars that light up when the car starts. Gas models have a more traditional grille, as there is an engine under the hood, but it also features lighting.
For enhanced efficiency, electric models come with covered aero wheels and an almost entirely covered underbody. Plus, the electric CLA is the first modern Mercedes-Benz to incorporate a frunk. For around $50,000, the new CLA and its lighting elements appear much more attractive than those of other models in this price range.
Aside from the massive wall of screens, the rest of the CLA's interior is quite minimalistic. The center console is divided into two levels, with wireless charging on one, making it easier to store personal belongings. We've come a long way from the factory-installed car phones of the late 1980s and '90s.
It wouldn't be luxury without numerous customization options—something you won't find much of in a Tesla Model 3. Mercedes offers a wide range of colors, finishes, and trims on the new CLA, depending on the model variant. These include new seat upholstery featuring a black and white pearl effect, as well as various wood, aluminum, and gold trim options. An optional AMG Line adds a sportier look to the CLA, while the Night package darkens the exterior trim.
As of this writing, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hasn't announced complete range estimates for the new CLA. However, according to the European WLTP cycle, Mercedes-Benz says that the CLA 250+ will travel nearly 500 miles on a single charge—an impressive base model range.
With its 800-volt electrical architecture, the CLA can accept up to 320 kilowatts (kW) of power and charge its 85-kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion battery to almost 50 percent in around 10 minutes, according to Mercedes-Benz. The company states that it will also install up to 45,000 charging stations globally by 2030. The CLA also uses a more efficient heat pump instead of a resistive heater, marking a first for Mercedes. Electric models can supply power to homes and the grid, but a future update will enable this feature.
The CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology will be the most performance-oriented version, with 349 hp and a claimed zero-to-60-mph time of 4.8 seconds. The CLA 250+ has 268 hp and 247 pound-feet of torque. Most mainstream EVs use a single-speed transmission to manage the electric motor, but the CLA, like the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-tron GT, employs a two-speed gearbox. This gearbox uses its second gear for power delivery at higher speeds and for efficiency during highway driving. This gearbox uses its second gear for power delivery at higher speeds and for efficiency during highway driving.
Two hybrid-electric models, featuring a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, will be available with both FWD and AWD. They operate on a 1.3-kWh battery that allows for all-electric driving, including coasting, at speeds of up to 60 mph. Mercedes says it will provide more details on this model later.
The new CLA is the first Mercedes model to fully operate on the automaker’s new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which utilizes AI technology from Microsoft and Google to establish a more advanced connection between the car and driver. I'm serious when I say that the system can detect your emotions and adjust the display's color accordingly based on your mood.
This feature is great for when you want to connect with your feelings, but the system also utilizes Google Maps to automatically find and reserve charging stops, as well as respond to traffic conditions. It allows users to organize applications, similar to those on smartphones, into groups and name them as folders. The system controls most of the car's functions, allowing Mercedes to update the car regularly through over-the-air updates.
The optional MBUX Superscreen spans the entire width of the interior, integrating a 14-inch center display, a 10.25-inch driver display, and an additional 14-inch screen for the passenger. Passengers can play games, stream videos, movies, and TV shows, and customize their screen to their preference without obstructing the driver's view for safety reasons, of course.
The new CLA has several driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control. Additional optional features include MB.Drive Assist, which adds steering assistance, among other features.
When both 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA models are released, they will challenge numerous established competitors. The electric model will offer shoppers a more attractive interior and advanced technology with a nameplate that carries strong brand recognition, even in the face of competitors like the Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4.
Hybrid models will help bridge the gap of going fully electric while reducing Mercedes-Benz's overall carbon footprint. Audi uses a 48-volt system in the A3, but BMW doesn't use a hybrid in the 2 Series Gran Coupe. With its diverse powertrain options, the new CLA should make a pretty big statement when it goes on sale this year.
Mercedes-Benz is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of March 25, 2025, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Connor Hoffman has been working in the automotive industry since 2018, with experience in both editorial and public relations. He has tested and written about hundreds of cars and helped lead the media launches of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma and Land Cruiser. Connor started his career at Car and Driver after a summer internship and has contributed to Capital One Auto Navigator, Edmunds, and U.S. News & World Report.
Although both the 2026 Toyota Corolla and Toyota Camry share Toyota engineering and many standard features, they target different buyers. To see how they compare in value, reliability, performance, ...See More
Read the Full Article
Both the 2026 Toyota Corolla and the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 come with comprehensive safety features and connected services, along with large infotainment screens and premium audio. To see how their ...See More
Read the Full Article
Touchscreens are almost universal in modern cars. However, not all display types are the same. An increasing number of the latest cars use something called an OLED display. But what exactly is OLED, ...See More
Read the Full Article
Although the 2026 Toyota Corolla and the 2026 Nissan Sentra target buyers with similar goals, they take different routes. To see how those approaches translate into real world value, reliability, ...See More
Read the Full Article