The all electric Mercedes Benz CLA has been named European Car of the Year 2026, after impressing judges with its range, efficiency and technology.
The award was announced at a ceremony held during the Brussels Motor Show, with the jury of 60 automotive journalists from 23 countries highlighting the CLA’s balance of efficiency, intelligence and everyday usability. The model secured 320 points, ahead of the Skoda Elroq on 220 and the Kia EV4 on 208.
For fleets, the electric CLA stands out with a WLTP range of up to 792km or 492 miles. Built on an 800V architecture, it can add up to 325km or 202 miles of range in 10 minutes under suitable charging conditions. It is also the first Mercedes to run the new MB.OS operating system and the latest generation of MBUX.
Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said: “The new CLA being named Car of the Year 2026 is a proud moment for Mercedes-Benz. Jurors from across Europe have confirmed what our customers have been telling us: the CLA is a game-changer, delivering outstanding efficiency and effortless intelligence.”
Mercedes said demand has exceeded expectations, with order banks already filled into the second half of 2026.
The electric CLA is priced at £44,615.
