2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA

The third generation of Mercedes-Benz CLA kicks in for the 2026 model year. Electric power plays a big part, and contributes to long names. For example, the official title of the current entry-level model is CLA 250+ with EQ Technology, and the range-topping variant is called the CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology.

The CLA 250+ has one electric motor generating a decent 268 horsepower and a projected range of around 390 miles. The 2026 CLA lineup is styled to resemble the company’s other all-electric sedans like the EQE. We’ve noticed that Mercedes-Benz has stopped calling the CLA a coupe, even though it’s always had four doors. It also looks like this bigger CLA could be classified as a compact sedan, instead of a subcompact like its predecessor.

There’s still more information to come, so we’ll be updating this review whenever we get the facts.

Everything about this third-generation CLA is new. For the first time, the CLA offers all-electric variants, with gasoline/electric hybrid models expected to follow. Exterior and interior designs are fresh, with cutting-edge technology part of the overall package (Mercedes-Benz is calling this its cleverest car ever), as well as more cabin space than before.

On-Sale Date

The all-new electrified 2026 CLA models go on sale later in 2025.

Looking at the competition, the Tesla Model 3 could undercut the new CLA by about $5K. The BMW i4 Gran Coupe is more likely to be closer price-wise. And the SUV-like Genesis GV60 would be a few grand less.

The entry-level 2026 CLA 250+ applies its 268 horsepower to sprint from standstill to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds — respectable enough. For reference, the base BMW i4 eDrive40 has 335 horses and will hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. And a 295-hp Tesla Model 3 could be quicker still. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) 2026 CLA 350 4Matic produces 349 hp, bringing the ability to reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds.

The standard suspension is calibrated for comfort and features a multi-link rear setup similar to larger, grander Mercedes-Benz cars like the E-Class and S-Class.

Range and Charging

Until official figures from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are available, we’re going with a couple of estimates. The CLA 250+ could have a maximum range of about 390 miles, with the all-wheel-drive CLA 350 4Matic covering around 380 miles. If this is close, then it would beat the present class leader — the Model 3, with 363 miles.

Using a DC fast charger, Mercedes-Benz says the new CLA can take on about 180 miles of range in 10 minutes. This would make it at least as quick to recharge as the BMW i4 and Genesis GV60.

Mercedes-Benz describes its approach to the new CLA’s interior design as following “the principle of reduction to the essentials.” Which we’re interpreting as another way of saying “minimalist.” A dual-level center console is standard, while a dash-width Superscreen is optional. Practically the entire roof is a fixed glass pane with an infrared film. As well as typical interior accents like open-pore wood and brushed aluminum, the CLA offers upholstery with a pearl-effect finish, and a supposedly decorative paper surface never used in cars before. Some fabrics and carpets are made from recycled material.

This new CLA has more passenger space than before, but it’s not dramatic. Front occupants have almost half an inch more legroom, while Mercedes-Benz has yet to divulge the amount of rear legroom, usually a source of complaint in the outgoing model. However, rear headroom (another area ripe for griping) increases by 1.1 inches.

Trunk space measures 14.3 cubic feet, beating the BMW i4’s. The CLA also has 2.5 cubic feet of storage space under the hood — a bit of a departure for Mercedes-Benz, as that area is inaccessible in the company’s current electric vehicles.

Eye-catching details include the optional 3-pointed star LED light signatures up front and the 142 LED stars in the grille. The taillights also go for the star motif, and we think the wheel designs look cool. On a more subtle note, the 2026 CLA has a drag coefficient of 0.21. We appreciate that this is getting into the nerdy details, but take it from us, 0.21 is great. Better than the current Toyota Prius. And the less drag an electric vehicle has, the better it can maximize its range.

Superscreen
The optional jewel in the new CLA’s cabin, this stunning unit houses a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 14-inch display for the front passenger.

Over-the-air updates
The new CLA is linked to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, enabling over-the-air updates that can improve navigation, battery efficiency, safety features, and more.

Artificial intelligence
The new CLA is the first Mercedes-Benz to come with artificial intelligence from both Google and Microsoft. One intention behind this combination is for third-party apps to integrate seamlessly. Another is to carry out voice commands given in natural speech.

Electric Intelligence
This is the part of the navigation system that factors in any recharging that might be necessary along the way.

Carbon neutrality
The 2026 CLA is built in Germany in a factory that is net carbon neutral and uses 100% green electricity.

Burmester audio
We’re big fans of Burmester. A 16-speaker/850-watt surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos is optional in the 2026 CLA. Give it a listen and you’ll want to experience it every day.

The 2026 CLA 250+ drives its rear wheels with a single electric motor making 268 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque.

The 2026 CLA 350 4Matic has an electric motor for each axle, creating all-wheel drive. Total output here is 349 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. For optimum efficiency, the front motor can disconnect automatically, just sparking into action whenever the situation demands.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Mercedes-Benz has new-car and powertrain warranties of four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. These terms are typical in the luxury sector. The company’s EV batteries are covered for 10 years or 155,000 miles, which is more generous than usual.

Safety

One notable new feature is a standard center airbag between the front seats. Adaptive cruise control is also included, while options include lane-changing assistance and a self-parking feature.