The Mercedes-Benz CLA, in its new, highly-electrified generation, made its mark at the Brussels Motor Show on 9 January 2026 by winning the prestigious title of European Car of the Year 2026. A clear and unequivocal choice by the jury, it marks Mercedes-Benz’s return to prominence in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.
A resounding triumph
The least we can say is that the new generation of the 100% electric CLA was a clear winner. On Friday 9 January, the Car of the Year jury awarded a total of 320 points to the German saloon. This is a lower score than that of its predecessor, the Renault 5, which scored 353 points for the same title last year.
Although this total is lower, the CLA is well ahead of the Skoda Elroq (220 points) and the Kia EV4 (208 points) by 100 points, while the Citroën C5 Aircross, the Fiat Grande Panda, the Dacia Bigster and the Renault 4 E-Tech complete the ranking.
This victory is no mean feat. It is Mercedes’ first victory in this competition since 1974, when the legendary S-Class / 450 S won the title. After two years of domination by Renault with the Scenic E-Tech and Renault 5 E-Tech, the CLA has now put the German brand back in the European race for premium electromobility. More generally, it illustrates a change in the European market, where premium electric saloons are no longer mere alternatives, but benchmarks in their own right.
A technical profile for the future
What sets the Mercedes-Benz CLA 2026 apart from its rivals is its combination of cutting-edge technology and efficient performance. It is based on an 800 V electric platform and features a battery with a capacity of around 85 kWh, enabling ultra-fast recharging of up to 320 kW. This modern architecture makes the CLA capable of recovering more than 300 km of range in just ten minutes from high-powered charging points.
Another point of note is the CLA’s exceptional range, claimed to be up to 792 km according to the WLTP cycle, a figure that makes it one of the most enduring electric saloons in its segment. The combination of these top-level features makes this premium compact saloon a particularly attractive proposition, both for everyday use and for long journeys. It also illustrates the technological maturity achieved by Mercedes-Benz with its MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, designed from the outset for electric use.
MB.OS & MBUX: intelligence at the wheel
In addition to its pure performance, the Mercedes-Benz CLA also features a significant evolution in user experience, supported by the introduction of the new MB.OS operating system and a latest-generation MBUX interface. The manufacturer’s stated aim is clear: to centralise the vehicle’s functions within a more coherent and easier-to-read digital environment.
MB.OS also provides the basis for the latest generation of driving aids, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and assistance in dense traffic. Without overturning existing market standards, the CLA is part of an approach aimed at making the interaction between the driver and the electronic aids more fluid.
Finally, Mercedes has maintained a balanced approach between digitalization and comfort. The cabin features sober ergonomics, quality materials and careful acoustic insulation.
A model for 2026… and beyond
Available from mid-2025 in Europe, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA has already generated strong interest in the market, with orders well in excess of initial forecasts, according to the brand. Its electric version (CLA 250+ EQ, CLA 350 4MATIC EQ) is available from the launch of the saloon, while the electric CLA Shooting Brake will follow in March 2026, joined by 48V hybrid versions on both bodystyles. A diversified product strategy that enables the German manufacturer to cover a large part of the electrified premium segment.
In a number of independent tests, the CLA was also praised for its handling, comfort and ability to compete with benchmarks such as the Tesla Model 3, thanks to a record aerodynamic coefficient (around 0.21) and a modular MMA4 platform designed to maximise overall efficiency.
A rising star in electromobility
By winning the title of European Car of the Year 2026, the Mercedes-Benz CLA confirms that it embodies a modern vision of the electric car, where autonomy, efficiency, technology and driving pleasure are successfully combined.
This award, obtained at the heart of the Brussels Motor Show, underlines the growing importance of premium electric models on the European market and establishes the CLA as one of the key models of the coming year, as well as a benchmark in the transition to more sustainable mobility.
