2026 Mercedes CLA

With hybrid and all-electric variants, the latest model integrates cutting-edge powertrain options under sleek camouflage.


Mercedes-Benz recently revealed its upcoming 2026 CLA in a unique setting: the 39th Festival d’Hyères in France, an event known for fashion and art. Wrapped in a bold grey-and-red camouflage, the CLA showcases a sleek, coupe-inspired design inspired by last year’s Concept CLA Class.

While specifics about the car’s features remain secret, this stylish debut highlights Mercedes’ focus on blending automotive design with artistic flair. The eye-catching camouflage hints at the car’s elegant shape while keeping some details under wraps.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA showcases a fresh, modern look while staying true to its “four-door coupe” style. It maintains the compact luxury silhouette fans love but enhances it with sleeker lines and sharper details.

At the front, a new, more aggressive grille inspired by last year’s Concept CLA Class stands out, even if some features, like the full-width LED light bar, are hidden beneath the camouflage. Updated headlights also hint at a bolder design direction for Mercedes’ compact sedans.

From the side, strong character lines, especially a prominent shoulder line, flow seamlessly from the sharp headlights to the concept-inspired taillights at the back. The rear features stylish circular LED lights and a subtle lip spoiler, adding to its sporty vibe.

A standout feature is the new roofline, inspired by the AMG GT sedan, giving the CLA a sleek, fastback-like look. This change not only enhances its visual appeal but also aligns it with performance-focused models in the Mercedes lineup, especially as the brand moves forward after phasing out the larger CLS model.

The upcoming 2026 CLA from Mercedes-Benz is set to offer a variety of powertrain options on its flexible MMA platform. This means you can expect hybrid-assisted combustion engines for traditionalists, while the fully electric version promises exciting innovations.

The electric CLA stands out with an 800-volt system, allowing rapid charging of up to 250 kW. In just 15 minutes, you can recharge for an impressive 248 miles (400 kilometers) of range. Plus, it features advanced bidirectional charging capabilities, letting you power your home or feed energy back into the grid.

For performance fans, there’s an AMG version in the works that will deliver over 500 horsepower. This high-performance electric model is expected to offer a remarkable range of up to 466 miles (750 kilometers) thanks to cutting-edge battery technology inspired by the Vision EQXX concept.

As Mercedes gears up to compete with rivals like the Audi A3 Sedan and the upcoming BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, the CLA’s blend of innovative tech and flexible powertrains makes it a strong contender in the luxury compact market. The full reveal is coming soon, and the CLA should hit showrooms in time for the 2026 model year.