Key Points
- The Mercedes-Benz CLA has won Car of the Year 2026 from European automotive journalists
- The electric CLA offers up to 792km of range and can add 325km in just 10 minutes with 800V charging
- Customer orders already exceed expectations with the order bank filled until mid-2026
The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA has been awarded Car of the Year 2026 by the European Car of the Year jury at a ceremony in Brussels. The electric sedan combines stunning design, advanced safety, and strong performance in its segment.
Award-Winning Electric Sedan
The CLA won with 320 points from 60 automotive journalists across 23 countries. It beat 34 other new models and five other finalists to take the top prize.
Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said the award confirms what customers have been saying. The CLA delivers outstanding efficiency and smart technology.
Range and Charging Performance
The electric CLA sets new standards for everyday electric driving. The CLA 250+ with EQ Technology offers up to 792 kilometres of range according to WLTP testing. This means drivers can travel from Berlin to Brussels or Bremen to Munich without stopping to charge.
The model uses 800V charging technology. This allows the car to add up to 325 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes. Mercedes-Benz calls it the 'one-litre car' for the electric era.
CLA 250+ Key Specifications
Specification | Value |
Power Output | 200 kW |
WLTP Range | Up to 792 km |
Energy Consumption | 12.2-14.1 kWh/100km |
Charging Technology | 800V |
Fast Charging | 325km in 10 minutes |
CO₂ Emissions | 0 g/km |
Advanced Technology
The CLA features the new MB.OS operating system and next-generation MBUX powered by AI. The system provides an intuitive driving experience with smart features that adapt to driver preferences.
Strong Customer Demand
The CLA went on sale in Europe in mid-2025. It will arrive in the USA and other markets soon. Customer orders have exceeded expectations. The order bank is already filled until well into the second half of 2026.
140 Years of Innovation
The award comes at the start of a special year for Mercedes-Benz. The company celebrates 140 years of innovation since Carl Benz invented the automobile in 1886. This recognition is the first highlight in what will be a full calendar of events.
The CLA has already won more than ten awards from around the world. The Car of the Year 2026 title adds to its growing list of achievements.
About the author
Danny Thai
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data.
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