2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA: Electrified and Enhanced
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the next generation of the CLA, which will offer both all-electric and mild-hybrid powertrain options. The new CLA boasts increased dimensions and a revamped interior, promising an updated driving experience.
Electric Powertrains
The 2026 CLA will be available as the battery-electric CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology. Both models will utilize an 85-kWh battery pack.
The CLA 250+ features a single motor at the rear, producing 268 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a two-speed transmission. The CLA 350 4Matic, on the other hand, gets two motors for a combined output of 349 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, providing all-wheel drive.
Regardless of the motor configuration, the all-electric CLA models are electronically limited to a top speed of 130 mph. The CLA 350 4Matic is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds.
Hybrid Option
Later, a mild-hybrid version of the CLA will also become available. This model combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder Miller-cycle engine (internally known as M 252) with an electric motor integrated into an eight-speed transmission. The hybrid system includes a 1.3-kWh battery. Mercedes-Benz indicates the hybrid can travel up to 27 mph on electric power alone.
Dimensions and Interior
The new CLA has grown in size. It measures 185.9 inches in length, 79.6 inches in width, and 57.8 inches in height. This represents a 1.3-inch increase in length, a 0.9-inch increase in width, and a 1.1-inch increase in height. The wheelbase has also grown by 2.4 inches, now stretching to 109.8 inches.
The interior of the 2026 CLA receives a significant upgrade. An optional MBUX Superscreen spans the dashboard, integrating a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with two 14-inch media displays. The front passenger display can stream content from apps like Disney+ via the Mercedes-Benz app store. Gaming is also supported, with Bluetooth controller compatibility. While the main central display only supports streaming while parked, the passenger screen can stream content while the vehicle is in motion.
Driver Assistance Technology
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA includes a range of advanced driver-assistance features. All models come standard with Active Distance Assist Distronic, which provides radar cruise control with the help of eight cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors. These sensors feed information to a water-cooled computer, also responsible for over-the-air updates.
Optional features include the MB.Drive Assist system, which integrates steering with the Distronic suite to enable automated lane changes when the blinker is activated. In certain markets, the CLA will also offer MB.Drive Assist Plus, with enhanced Distronic, as well as MB.Drive Parking Assist.
Availability
The CLA 250+ and CLA 350 are planned to arrive in the US later this year, with production taking place at the company’s Rastatt, Germany, factory. Pricing details have not yet been announced.
