2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA First Look: The Affordable Benz That Surprises

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its all-new 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA, introducing a fresh model with new architecture, powertrains, and an advanced operating system. Though it’s the brand’s entry-level sedan, this latest CLA carries significant weight for Mercedes.

As the most affordable Mercedes, the CLA must impress new buyers and uphold the brand’s luxury reputation. This third-generation model is especially important because it’s the first to be built on Mercedes’ new Modular Architecture (MMA), designed to support both fully electric and hybrid powertrains. It also debuts the new Mercedes-Benz operating system, allowing future software upgrades through over-the-air updates.

The electric 2026 CLA250+ with EQ Technology premiered globally in Rome and will be followed by a hybrid version. Both run on the front-wheel-drive MMA platform. Mercedes will reveal the design of its upcoming rear-wheel-drive models at the Munich auto show in September.

The CLA250+ and CLA350 4Matic electric models will launch in Europe this summer and arrive in the U.S. this fall. The hybrid will follow by late 2025 in Europe and in 2026 for North America. All North American versions will be built in Germany.

Built on the MMA Platform

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is the first of four new models using the MMA platform, including a wagon for Europe and upcoming SUVs: the smaller GLA and larger GLB. The release schedule for these SUVs hasn’t been announced yet.

Mercedes has updated its naming approach. The “EQ” label, previously used to highlight electric vehicles, will no longer be applied alone. Instead, electric models keep their familiar names but add “with EQ Technology” — so the electric CLA remains a CLA, just with this new tag. The new G-Wagen was the first to use this naming style.

Development of the CLA and the MMA platform started around three and a half years ago. The goal was to create an electric sedan with a sleek, coupe-like roofline that still offers roomy rear seats. Although designed for electric power, the platform also supports internal combustion engines. The front-wheel-drive architecture allows for a hybrid with optional all-wheel drive and a rear-drive electric version.

Mercedes plans to offer both electric and combustion engine options for many years. While EV sales grow, the company will keep updating traditional engines and transmissions into the 2030s. The MMA platform was designed with this flexibility in mind.

A More Traditional Design

Earlier Mercedes electric cars drew some criticism for their short, rounded fronts and bulky shapes, which strayed from the brand’s classic long-hood style. While those designs appealed to early adopters, Mercedes now aims for broader appeal with more conventional styling.

The new 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is sportier and more aggressive, targeting younger buyers. It features a sharp front end, a sculpted hood, and a longer wheelbase to fit the battery. The top AMG Line Plus trim includes a rear spoiler. Overall, the car is slightly larger—longer, wider, and taller—with wheel options from 17 to 19 inches.

That Is a Lot of Stars

A large illuminated Mercedes star dominates the grille, surrounded by 142 animated smaller stars—this is the first production model to feature this effect. The headlights and daytime running lights continue the star theme. While the front has many layered elements, the look becomes more appealing with time.

The taillights also stretch across the back with matching star patterns and light animations that greet and bid farewell to the driver.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA offers nine exterior colors, including two new shades: Aqua Mint (bluish-green) and Clear Blue metallic.

A panoramic glass roof comes standard, designed to maximize visibility while blocking heat from the sun.

A Premium Interior

Though an entry-level model, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA interior is anything but basic. It features high-quality leathers, suede, metals, and detailed stitching. The floating center console offers multiple material options, including aluminum, oak, birch, and a unique paper-based trim—a first for Mercedes.

Three trim levels are available: Progressive Line (comfort seats with black, ivory/beige, or brown interiors), AMG Line (with sportier color accents), and AMG Line Plus (which adds a spoiler and 19-inch wheels). There’s also a special Edition model with black matte paint, gold trim, and rich brown leather.

Recycled textiles are used, and rear passengers get USB ports but no screens. Rear windows only open halfway to accommodate rear air vents without compromising shoulder space.

The trunk fits two suitcases comfortably, and the electric models add a front trunk (“frunk”) for extra storage.

Advanced Technology Inside

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA introduces the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system powered by the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which incorporates AI from Microsoft and Google.

Mercedes has been developing its own software since 2018 and now aims to control its software ecosystem fully. This new system supports 27 languages, uses virtual avatars, and features surround navigation showing the environment around the car in real-time. It supports advanced driver assistance (“Level 2++”) and will debut in China first.

A driver-facing camera recognizes the driver’s profile and adjusts settings like lighting and music accordingly. The system learns driving habits to suggest routes and charging stops, and the avatar changes colors to reflect the driver’s mood.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA was designed first as an electric vehicle, launching with a 268-hp rear motor and a unique two-speed transmission for better efficiency. The all-wheel-drive model adds a front motor, bringing total power to 349 hp.

It uses an 85-kWh battery that offers up to 492 miles of range on Europe’s WLTP cycle (estimated 350 miles by EPA standards). There’s also an option for a smaller 58-kWh battery in more affordable models.

With an 800-volt system, fast charging can add 186 miles of range in just 10 minutes. The aerodynamic design, inspired by the Vision EQXX concept, gives it a low drag coefficient of 0.21.

There’s no start button; pressing the brake starts the car, and one-pedal driving with adjustable regenerative braking is available.

Hybrid Option

For those not ready for full electric, a hybrid version will arrive later. It uses a new 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 188 hp, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and an integrated electric motor adding 27 hp. The hybrid can drive on electric power alone up to 62 mph without sacrificing interior space.

Mercedes has no current plans for a plug-in hybrid CLA but may consider it for future rear-drive models.

Looking Ahead

Mercedes sees the 2026 CLA as the start of a major product push, blending traditional and electric powertrains on flexible platforms. This model sets the tone for many new vehicles coming soon, showing Mercedes’ commitment to both innovation and luxury.

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Specifications