2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA hybrid and EV range priced

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will arrive Down Under in a matter of weeks, with the all-new compact sedan’s lineup spanning five variants, including hybrid and electric powertrains for the first time. Underpinned by a new modular platform and headlined by next-gen tech, the new CLA will start from $66,500 plus on-road costs, making it around $10,000 more affordable than the previous model.

The price cut comes despite the significant enhancements to the third-generation compact sedan, now available in petrol-electric hybrid (HEV) and battery-electric (EV) forms.

Locally, the new CLA will come offered in three hybrid variants – CLA 180, CLA 200 and CLA 220 4MATIC – and two electric versions: CLA 200 electric and CLA 350 4MATIC electric.

The EVs are underpinned by an 800V architecture – supporting DC fast charging at up to 320kW – with a claimed driving range of 470km and 663km (WLTP) for the CLA 200 and CLA 350 4MATIC respectively.

Powering the base model is a rear-mounted 165kW/335Nm e-motor good for 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds, while the flagship gets a 260kW/515Nm dual-motor setup that’s said to hit 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

Hybrid variants meantime, use a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V electrical system and integrated e-motor housed within its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Outputs range from 100kW (CLA 180) to 140kW (CLA 220 4MATIC), with the electrified setup capable of driving on electric power alone in low-load urban environments.

Underneath, the CLA rides on newly developed suspension featuring a three-link front axle and multi-link rear arrangement which Merc says brings improvements to both ride comfort and steering precision.

Outside, hybrid versions retain a traditional grille framed by an LED guide, while electric models feature Benz’s fully illuminated grill with 142 individual LED lighting elements that animate on approach.

The entire range rides on either 18- or 19-inch aerodynamically enhanced wheels.

Inside, the CLA is said to adopt a minimalist cabin layout, save for its latest-gen MBUX ‘Superscreen’ that dominates the dash – an optional 14-inch screen ahead of the passenger is also offered – and brings the German marque’s latest MB.OS operating system, enabling over-the-air (OTA) updates for vehicle functions and driver-assistance systems.

AI is also said to enhance the CLA’s voice assistant, combining ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Bing technologies, to provide more conversational interactions, while access to streaming platforms like Disney+ and Netflix are also available.

Other standard features include a panoramic glass roof, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, wireless smartphone charging and a park assist system with 360-degree camera.

Meanwhile, every variant above the base CLA 180 nabs AMG Line enhancements including sports seats, AMG body styling and aluminium interior trim.

A Premium Package is also offered from $1200 (price depends on the variant) and brings a head-up display, premium Burmester sound system, adaptive high beam assist and the MBUX Superscreen passenger display.

In terms of safety, Merc says a front centre airbag has been added, while a recent five-star Euro NCAP safety rating is expected to be adopted by ANCAP. A host of driver assist aids will also feature.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA range will be available to order online and in dealerships in “the coming weeks”, with deliveries expected to follow shortly after launch.

How much does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA cost?
CLA 180 – $66,500
CLA 200 – $68,100
CLA 220 4MATIC – $84,300
CLA 200 electric – $72,200
CLA 350 4MATIC electric – $91,300
*Prices exclude on-road costs

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