2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Hybrid spied

• A redesigned Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class starts sales in 2025
• The new CLA-Class will offer the choice of hybrid and electric powertrains
• Underpinning the range will be Mercedes’ MMA modular platform designed for compact cars

Mercedes-Benz is working on a redesigned CLA-Class that’s due for sale next year as a 2026 model in the U.S., and this time around, the compact sedan will offer buyers a choice between hybrid and fully electric powertrains.

Prototypes for the electric version have previously been spotted, in both regular and high-performance AMG guises. Our latest spy shots, however, show a prototype for the hybrid version.

There isn’t much that visually separates the two powertrain types from the outside. On the hybrid prototype, there’s a genuine grille in combination with a lower intake, with multiple openings to allow cool air through. On the EV prototypes, the grille section is sealed off, with only the lower intake present.

There doesn’t appear to be any visible sign of exhaust tips. It’s likely the exhaust will vent from underneath the vehicle, which is the case for Mercedes’ current compact hybrids.

However, unlike the current compact hybrids, which are plug-in hybrids, Mercedes’ redesigned compact hybrids will feature conventional hybrid powertrains, where the battery is charged purely by the gas engine and brake energy recovery.

The particular setup will feature a newly developed 1.5-liter turbo-4 paired with a 27-hp electric motor sandwiched between the gas engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Total system output will be 187 hp. The battery, in this case, will be a 1.3-kWh lithium-ion unit mounted under the driver’s seat. Power will go to the front wheels as standard, but all-wheel drive will be available.

Mercedes has said the electric motor is powerful enough to drive the vehicle at speeds of up to 62 mph. The gas engine can also disconnect from the motor and transmission to enable more efficient coasting at highway speeds.

Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA-Class

Mercedes previewed the design of the new CLA-Class with the handsome Concept CLA-Class that debuted during the 2023 Munich auto show. Details from the concept that will make it to production include Mercedes star logos in the lights, and possibly the concept’s dash that consists of one wide panel integrating screens for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment hub, plus circular vents for the climate control.

The new CLA-Class will be part of a downsized compact range at Mercedes. Other models in the pipeline include new versions of the CLA-Class Shooting Brake, GLA-Class, and GLB-Class. The A-Class and B-Class won’t make a return.

Underpinning the car is a new modular platform known as the MMA. Mercedes also has the electric-only MB.EA platform, which will debut in an electric C-Class and related electric GLC-Class due for sale in the U.S. in 2026.