Electric Mercedes-Benz CLA Named Car of the Year 2026

Mercedes-Benz announced that its electric CLA was named European Car of the Year 2026 by the jury in Brussels. Learn more about the result and key facts.

The all-electric Mercedes-Benz CLA has been named European Car of the Year 2026, with the result announced on 9 January at the Brussels Motor Show. The award was decided by a jury of nearly 60 automotive journalists representing 23 European countries.

In the final round, the CLA competed against six other finalists and secured a total of 320 points, taking a clear lead over its closest rivals. The result reflects how convincingly the model was received by the jury, which highlighted its combination of design quality, advanced technology and overall efficiency.

The electric CLA is also the first production model to introduce Mercedes-Benz’s new MB.OS software architecture together with the next generation of the MBUX infotainment system, enhanced by artificial intelligence. This approach turns the car into a software-defined vehicle, allowing digital functions and user experiences to evolve through updates over its lifecycle.

Efficiency played a central role in the jury’s assessment. In CLA 250+ form with EQ Technology, the model offers a WLTP range of up to 792 kilometres, combined with low energy consumption. Thanks to its 800-volt electrical architecture, fast charging can add up to 325 kilometres of range in just ten minutes, positioning the CLA as a long-distance-capable electric car for everyday use.

Already available in Europe and set to expand to additional markets including the United States, the electric CLA is seeing strong customer demand and a growing order book. Winning the Car of the Year title at this stage underlines Mercedes-Benz’s strategy for its next generation of electric vehicles and marks a high-profile milestone at the start of the brand’s 140th anniversary year.