New 2026 Mercedes CLA – Game Changing Electric & Hybrid Upgrades!

Summary

Mercedes-Benz is introducing significant changes with the 2026 CLA, a fully redesigned entry-level sedan. For the first time, it will be available as a fully electric vehicle, alongside a mild-hybrid gasoline option. The new CLA features a larger size, improved aerodynamics, and a sleek, tech-heavy interior with up to three screens. Performance-wise, the electric versions offer impressive acceleration and range, with up to 492 miles on a single charge. The redesign includes both front and rear changes, such as a new multi-link suspension for a smoother ride and an updated, minimalist dashboard. Expect the new CLA to compete directly with the BMW 2 Series Grand Coupe.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA marks a significant update, competing with the BMW 2 Series Grand Coupe, and is available as a fully electric vehicle for the first time.
• 😀 A mild hybrid gasoline version is also offered, featuring a small turbocharged engine, but there will be no diesel option for this generation.
• 😀 The new CLA is slightly larger than its predecessor, with a 1.3-inch increase in length, 1-inch wider, and 1.1-inch taller, resulting in a more spacious front area.
• 😀 Despite the larger footprint, rear seat space has decreased slightly due to packaging constraints, particularly with the introduction of the electric version.
• 😀 The CLA electric version offers a small front trunk, providing an additional 2.5 cubic feet of storage, marking the first time in nearly 90 years for Mercedes-Benz to feature storage under the hood.
• 😀 Exterior styling is an evolution, with sleek front and rear light bars, flush door handles, and illuminated Mercedes-Benz stars, all contributing to a modern look.
• 😀 The interior receives a major overhaul, featuring up to three screens (instrument cluster, infotainment, and an optional passenger screen), giving it a tech-heavy feel.
• 😀 The CLA features a new multi-link rear suspension for a smoother ride, but comfort varies depending on wheel size, ranging from 17 to 19 inches.
• 😀 The base gasoline engine is a 1.5L 4-cylinder with a 48V mild-hybrid system, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive configurations.
• 😀 The electric CLA offers two models: the CLA 250 Plus with rear-wheel drive and 268 horsepower, and the CLA 354 4MATIC with dual motors, all-wheel drive, and 349 horsepower. The electric versions have impressive performance and range, with up to 492 miles on a single charge.

Q & A

What are the key changes in the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA compared to previous models?

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA features significant updates, including a fully electric version for the first time, a mild-hybrid gasoline variant, and the removal of the diesel option. The car also grows in size, with an increased length, width, and height, while offering a more advanced interior with multiple screens and a tech-heavy setup.

How does the new 2026 CLA compare in size to its predecessor?

The new 2026 CLA is larger than its predecessor. It has a length of 185.1 inches, an increase of 1.3 inches. It is also 73 inches wide (up by 1 inch) and has grown in height by 1.1 inches, reaching 57.8 inches. The wheelbase is extended by 2.4 inches, now measuring 101.8 inches.

How has rear seating been affected by the size increase?

Despite the larger dimensions, rear seating has become slightly more cramped, with less leg and elbow room for passengers. However, headroom has improved slightly. This change is likely due to the packaging constraints of offering the new fully electric version.

What are the cargo space and storage options in the 2026 CLA?

Cargo space has decreased slightly by 1.9 cubic feet, now totaling 14.3 cubic feet. However, the electric version adds a front trunk, providing an extra 2.5 cubic feet of space, making it the first Mercedes-Benz in nearly 90 years to offer such a compartment under the hood.

How does the exterior design of the 2026 CLA differ from previous models?

The 2026 CLA's exterior design is more of an evolution than a complete overhaul. It features sleek front and rear light bars, flush door handles, and illuminated Mercedes-Benz stars. The body is highly aerodynamic, with the most efficient version achieving a drag coefficient of 0.21.

What technological upgrades are included in the interior of the 2026 CLA?

The interior features a high-tech dashboard dominated by up to three screens, including a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment display. The optional MBUX Super Screen adds a third 14-inch passenger screen. A head-up display and a premium Burmester sound system are also available.

What changes have been made to the climate control system in the 2026 CLA?

The 2026 CLA has removed physical climate controls, instead requiring users to adjust temperature and airflow settings through the touchscreen. This change may be divisive for some buyers who prefer tactile controls.

What kind of suspension and wheel options are available for the new CLA?

The 2026 CLA features a new multi-link rear suspension, borrowed from larger Mercedes-Benz models, offering a smoother ride. Wheel sizes range from 17 inches to 19 inches, and the choice of wheels can significantly impact ride comfort.

What powertrains are available in the 2026 CLA, and how do they perform?

The 2026 CLA offers both gasoline and electric powertrains. The gasoline version features a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, while the electric versions come with a single motor rear-wheel drive or dual motor all-wheel drive. Performance-wise, the single-motor electric CLA accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, while the dual-motor version achieves it in 4.8 seconds.

What is the driving range and charging capability of the electric CLA?

The electric versions of the 2026 CLA offer impressive range, with the rear-wheel drive model providing up to 492 miles and the all-wheel drive version offering up to 479 miles, based on the WLTP cycle. The car supports fast charging at up to 325 kW, enabling a 20-80% charge in just 10 minutes.