The third-generation 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA has made its debut, bringing an all-new design, new tech, and two different powertrain options.
Buyers of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will be able to choose between EV and hybrid powertrains. On the US market, EV models will be available in RWD and dual-motor AWD versions, both sporting an 85 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery. The RWD CLA250+ will feature a 268-hp rear motor, be able to run 0-60 in 6.6 seconds and have a range in the high 300s. The dual-motor AWD CLA350 4Matic model gets 375 hp, a 4.8 second 0-60 time, and a slightly lower estimated range (though still in the high 300 range).
Built on the brand’s new MMA platform, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA uses an advanced 800-volt architecture that allows it to achieve fast charging speeds of up to 320 kW. It will also feature a new advanced brake-by-wire regenerative braking system that has no physical connection between the brake pedal and the brakes themselves. EV versions will also feature a sizable front trunk (frunk), as well as a heat pump for improved performance in colder conditions.
Hybrid models will feature a new turbocharged 1.5-liter Miller-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission with a 27-hp electric motor integrated into it. More details on hybrid models will be available closer to their on-sale date, which will come later than the EV models.
Outside, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA stays very true to the Concept CLA Class shown two years ago with a swoop-y, flowing body that recalls previous generation CLAs while modernizing the design.
The front of the new CLA has a full-width light bar headlight arrangement. Below that, a wide grille features a large Mercedes star in the middle with smaller three-pointed stars scattered around it. Mercedes is leaning into its three-pointed star motif, with plenty of them scattered throughout the design, including additional ones in the headlight and taillights themselves.
The CLA’s profile has long been one of its most defining features, with an arched, sweeping bow design that gives the small sedan the look of a coupe. That is very much present and accounted for in the new CLA’s profile which now also features flush-mounted door handles.
The rear of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA features a full-width taillight treatment echoing the one found on the front with a hash mark lighting pattern connecting the two taillight units.
The interior of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA also stays true to the concept version with a complete re-imagining of the CLA interior formula.
A new “Superscreen” system makes its debut, which, like the brand’s Hyperscreen, features three separate displays under a single sheet of glass that stretches the full width of the dash. A 14-inch central infotainment display joins a 10.3-inch driver’s display and, optionally, a second 14-inch touchscreen for the front passenger. To avoid distracted driving, the passenger display will appear black from the driver’s perspective. There is even a camera system that can detect if the driver is trying to look at the passenger screen and will shut it off accordingly if it detects such an action.
These new screens run a new version of the brand’s MBUX operating system, which now features Google Maps navigation and Google’s Gemini AI-based search capabilities. Physical controls have been reduced as well with climate functions now moved to the central touchscreen.
User-configurable ambient lighting extends to the circular air vent surrounds flanking either side of the new Superscreen arrangement. A standard glass roof gives the new CLA’s interior an open, airy feeling. Available options include a large 12.2-inch head-up display and a premium Burmester sound system featuring 16 speakers.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will be available with a wider array of decor options, including multiple aluminum, wood, and even paper trim options. Seat color options are plentiful as well, including the choice of black, brown, black with green accents, two-tone black and white, and two-tone black and red designs.
The EV version of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will go on sale in the US this fall, with the hybrid model following roughly six months later.