2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA unveiled: From sleek concept-inspired design to advanced tech all you need to know

Mercedes-Benz formally introduced the 2026 CLA, which has a new look borrowed from its previous concept car. But the changes go far beyond aesthetics. The new CLA sees significant engineering updates, with the C-Class being released for the first time as a fully electric vehicle. Mercedes-Benz also offers a more budget-friendly option with a mild-hybrid system combined with a turbocharged petrol engine.

Revamped design & bigger dimensions

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA also retains its distinctive sloping roof, this time in a more expanded body for the new battery pack. Compared to the pre-previous-generation CLA, the car is wider in proportions at 2,790 mm wheelbase, 4,723 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,468 mm in height. The new generation also boasts rear quarter windows both for aesthetic appeal and practicality.

From the beginning, the CLA drew stylistic cues from its concept lineage forebear, featuring a gleaming grille topped with bright accented highlights. The multi-beam LED headlamps hold within them a three-pointed-star-shaped DRL connected by a low-profile light bar stretched out over the car's width. This similar aesthetic makes it to the rear of the car, where 40 light-emitting louvers connect the taillamps and create a futuristic, advanced face for the CLA.

High-tech futuristic interior

Inside the cabin, Mercedes-Benz has incorporated a high-tech instrument panel with three integrated displays: a 10.3-inch digital cockpit, a 14.0-inch central touchscreen, and a passenger screen. Remaining true to its touch-slider volume control and touch-swipe steering wheel controls, the CLA also gets a new MBUX infotainment system. The new system also has support for Google Maps navigation and Gemini AI for voice-guided search integration. Also, the car has a "mood ring" that detects the mood of the driver, making the driving experience even more enjoyable.

Powertrain & performance: A step into the future

The 2026 CLA is underpinned by an 800-volt architecture, a Mercedes-Benz first. The tech supports rapid charging of up to 320 kW with an 85 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery pack. The CLA250+ model with a 268 hp rear-mounted electric motor boasts an impressive 792 km range on a single charge. For extra power, the CLA 350 4MATIC features an all-wheel-drive setup with 349 hp and a 771 km range.

Later this year, Mercedes-Benz will also introduce a petrol-hybrid model with a 1.5-liter M252 turbocharged engine. The hybrid powertrain features a 48-volt lithium-ion battery (1.3 kWh capacity) and an integrated electric motor in a newly developed eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Interestingly, the hybrid unit allows energy recuperation in all eight gears for optimum efficiency.