Mercedes-Benz Japan launched the third-generation CLA four-door coupe on July 9, 2026. The new-generation model has been comprehensively revamped across the drivetrain, platform, and digital experience, with a lineup of six models: four mild-hybrid variants and two battery-electric vehicles. Pricing ranges from ¥5.98 million to ¥7.75 million (approximately $37,538 to $48,649) including consumption tax.

The new CLA won the “Car of the Year 2026” award, voted on by European journalists. This marks only the second time in Mercedes-Benz history, and the first in 52 years since 1974, that the brand has claimed the honor.

A New-Generation Platform Built Around Electrification

At the core of the new CLA is the adoption of the new-generation “Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA)” platform. Designed with electrification as its primary focus, the platform retains the flexibility to accommodate internal combustion engines as well.

The powertrain pairs the newly developed 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline turbo engine “M252” with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) integrating an electric motor, combined with a 1.3 kWh 48V lithium-ion battery for the mild-hybrid setup. The motor is integrated into the 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, allowing the drivetrain to decouple from the engine under low-load conditions to improve fuel efficiency.

Because engine starting is handled by the electric motor, a conventional pinion starter is no longer required, contributing to weight reduction.

The lineup and key specifications are as follows:

ModelPowertrainMax OutputPrice (incl. consumption tax)CLA 1801.5L 4-cyl MHEV100kW + 22kW motor¥5.98 million (approx. $37,538)CLA 2201.5L 4-cyl MHEV140kW + 22kW motor¥6.87 million (approx. $43,125)CLA 180 Shooting Brake1.5L 4-cyl MHEV100kW + 22kW motor¥6.21 million (approx. $38,982)CLA 220 Shooting Brake1.5L 4-cyl MHEV140kW + 22kW motor¥7.1 million (approx. $44,569)CLA 250+ with EQ TechnologyBEV (rear-wheel drive)200kW¥7.75 million (approx. $48,649)CLA 200 Shooting Brake with EQ TechnologyBEV (rear-wheel drive)165kW¥6.91 million (approx. $43,376)

Note: All mild-hybrid models are front-wheel drive. BEV driving range on a single charge is 771 km for the 250+ and 513 km for the 200 Shooting Brake (both WLTC mode figures).

The BEV models, branded “with EQ Technology,” employ a two-speed motor that balances everyday usability, acceleration performance, and high top speed. Low rolling-resistance tires are selected, and the underbody is designed for smooth airflow.

An In-House OS and Fourth-Generation MBUX Create a “Conversational Car”

The other pillar of the new CLA is the adoption of Mercedes-Benz’s in-house developed operating system “MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System)” and the fourth-generation MBUX running on top of it. In the Japanese market, this follows the introduction on the new S-Class.

MB.OS employs a chip-to-cloud architecture that integrates control of infotainment, driver assistance, and body & comfort functions. It also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates for major software.

The “MBUX Virtual Assistant” featured in the fourth-generation MBUX integrates multiple AIs and includes short-term memory functionality that retains conversational context. In addition to search support via ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing, integration with Google Gemini enables voice-based retrieval of navigation and point-of-interest information.

Navigation uses “MBUX Navigation,” co-developed with Google. It integrates Google Maps data and real-time traffic information with Mercedes’ proprietary UI/UX and vehicle control.

The optional “MBUX Superscreen” is a large, seamless glass display extending to the passenger side, turning nearly the entire dashboard into a screen. Smooth rendering is achieved through the Unity Game Engine and high-performance chips, with support for zero-layer displays that adapt to driving conditions.

During a test drive of the CLA 220, the frequency of motor-only driving was particularly striking. When the accelerator is pressed and the engine starts, very powerful acceleration is delivered. The suspension features a 3-link front and multi-link rear setup, achieving a slightly firm ride and precise handling while maintaining comfort.

An Uncompromising Commitment to Crash Safety

For the new CLA, ensuring crash safety in the electrification era became a critical development challenge. According to Professor Dr. Christian Grügler, who oversees passive safety at Mercedes-Benz headquarters, approximately 150 crash safety tests are conducted for a model like the CLA. In addition to the crash center in Sindelfingen, Germany, test teams are stationed in India, China, and the United States.

“Traffic conditions differ around the world, so accident patterns also differ,” Professor Grügler explained.

In terms of safety equipment, a center airbag comes standard—a first for Mercedes-Benz in this segment. It prevents front-seat occupants from colliding with each other during side impacts. A total of 11 airbags protect occupants in both front and rear seats.

For BEV models, extruded aluminum is used on the outside of the battery to protect the underfloor battery during side impacts. High-strength steel and hot-stamped ultra-high-strength steel are used in pillar sections and floor areas requiring strength.

In vehicles equipped with the MBUX Superscreen, the airbag deploys upward from the lower edge of the windshield during frontal collisions, covering the dashboard to protect the face and head of front-seat occupants. The high-voltage system cuts power immediately upon impact, and the door outer handles pop out instantly to ensure escape.

The driver assistance system employs eight cameras, five radars, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and a high-performance computer to support situational awareness around the vehicle and advanced driving and parking assistance functions.

Balancing Design and Practicality

The exterior evolves the “Sensual Purity” philosophy for the electrified, digital era. An elongated wheelbase, low flowing roofline, and short overhangs emphasize the CLA’s distinctive silhouette.

The front features an “illuminated radiator grille” with a chrome-finished star pattern. The headlights and rear combination lamps adopt a light signature inspired by the three-pointed star. Frameless doors, the CLA’s first seamless door handles, and an aerodynamically optimized rear diffuser shape are also notable features.

The interior pursues a floating design aesthetic. A display spanning the full width of the interior, three-dimensional door center panels, and a two-tier center console create a sense of lightness and depth. The standard large panoramic roof adopts a one-piece fixed glass roof without a center brace for the first time, with laminated glass, infrared film, and Low-E coating significantly reducing heat and solar radiation.

The CLA, which traces its lineage to the CL series that debuted in 1996 as a derivative of the S-Class, has evolved since the first generation appeared in 2013 as a model balancing a sporty profile with four-door practicality. The third-generation model can be said to redefine that concept for the electrification era.