Mercedes CLA Crowned 2026 Car of the Year – Only the Second Mercedes Victory Since 1964

MERCEDES CLA CLAIMS CAR OF THE YEAR 2026 AT BRUSSELS SHOW

Breaking news: The Car of the Year 2026 crown goes to the Mercedes CLA, seized during a tense ceremony at the brussels motor show. The German sedan surged to first place after a suspenseful vote that kept the hall buzzing.

A jury of 59 European automotive journalists cast their ballots, revealing a clear winner after a nearly half‑hour wait. This marks Mercedes’ second triumph in the history of the award, which has recognized the industry’s best sence 1964. The first Mercedes to win was the 1974 450 SE.

Event details and final standings

at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time, the verdict was delivered as seven finalists, selected from 35 new models released in 2025, vied for the coveted prize. The podium positions reflect a decisive preference for the CLA over its closest rivals.

The final tally places the mercedes CLA at the top with 320 points, followed by Skoda Elroq with 220 points and Citroën C5 Aircross with 207 points. The Kia EV4 sits close behind at 206,while Fiat Grande Panda earns 200 points. Dacia Bigster and Renault 4 round out the field with 170 and 150 points respectively.

rank	Car	Brand	Points	Notes
1	CLA	Mercedes	320	Multi-energy platform; 800V architecture; high efficiency
2	Elroq	Skoda	220	Strong all-round package; second place by narrow margin
3	C5 Aircross	Citroën	207	Close to the podium; versatile family SUV
4	EV4	Kia	206	electric elegance; brisk performance
5	Grande Panda	Fiat	200	Quirky charm; practical urban option
6	Bigster	Dacia	170	Value-focused SUV
7	Renault 4	Renault	150	Retro-inspired compact

Why the Mercedes CLA won

Jurors highlighted the CLA’s blend of performance, efficiency and future-ready engineering. The model stands out for its adaptable powertrain strategy, offering both hybrid and electric options within a single platform. The electric variant benefits from an 800‑volt architecture that enables rapid charging and strong long‑range capability,paired with a two‑speed transmission that optimizes highway efficiency. The car’s aerodynamic silhouette further enhances its overall efficiency, setting a high benchmark for a growing class of mid‑size sedans.

mercedes officials indicated that this architecture and the associated technologies will roll out to other models in the lineup in the coming months, starting with the GLC SUV.For more on the CLA and its official specifications, visit the manufacturer’s page hear.

Industry implications

The result underscores a broader industry shift toward versatile, electrified platforms capable of supporting multiple powertrains. The CLA’s win reinforces Mercedes’ strategy to blend efficiency, driving pleasure, and scalable technology across its lineup. It also highlights how high-voltage architectures are increasingly becoming a norm in flagship models as brands race to balance performance with charging speed and range.

The Car of the Year award remains a prestigious barometer for the European market, influencing consumer perceptions and, frequently enough, brand strategy in the years ahead. Readers seeking a wider view of Car of the Year history can explore official resources at the Car of the Year organization and related automotive reference pages here.

Key takeaways for enthusiasts

• The Mercedes CLA secured the 2026 trophy with a comfortable margin, marking the brand’s second triumph since 1964.
• A nine‑car lineup from 2025 set the stage for a tight, highly observed competition among European journalists.
• The CLA’s 800V architecture and 48V hybrid versatility signal a shift in how manufacturers package efficiency and performance for future models.

What readers are saying

Two recurring themes have emerged among fans and critics: admiration for the CLA’s engineering package and skepticism about price versus value in a market where many buyers weigh electric range and charging speed just as heavily as outright power.

Engage with us

Which feature of the Mercedes CLA do you find most compelling for daily driving? Do you expect more brands to adopt 800V architecture in the near term? Share yoru thoughts in the comments below.

For more context on the award’s history and its importance in shaping automotive innovation, see the official Car of the Year pages and Mercedes’ product pages linked above.

Share this breaking news with fellow car enthusiasts and let us know which model you’d choose based on these results.

Disclaimer: Information reflects the event details and standings reported at the time of publication.

%) – MBUX HyperScreen and OTA updates earned full points.

Mercedes CLA crowned 2026 Car of the Year – Only the Second Mercedes Victory Since 1964

Why the 2026 Mercedes CLA Beats the Competition

The CLA’s blend of sleek design, cutting‑edge tech, and affordable luxury earns it top marks in every major Car of the Year (COTY) category.

• Styling: A coupe‑like silhouette with a wider grille, LED matrix headlights, and a refreshed rear diffuser.
• Powertrain: Turbocharged 2.0 L inline‑four (CLA 250) delivering 221 hp, paired with the new 8‑speed dual‑clutch transmission.
• Efficiency: combined fuel consumption of 6.1 L/100 km (38 mpg) and CO₂ emissions under 140 g/km, meeting Euro 7 standards.
• Tech: MBUX HyperScreen (12.3‑in OLED), augmented‑reality navigation, and over‑the‑air (OTA) updates.
• Safety: EQS‑level Active Brake Assist, Bright Drive Pilot Level 2, and a 5‑star Euro NCAP rating.

Design Evolution: From 2019 to 2026

1. Exterior Refresh – New front grille with optional “Sport” black finish, re‑engineered bumper inserts for improved aerodynamics (Cd 0.26).
2. Interior Upgrade – Soft‑touch upholstery, ambient lighting zones, and an optional 10‑speaker Burmester sound system.
3. Color Palette – Introduction of “Polar Night” matte black and “Electric Blue Metallic” to attract younger buyers.

Powertrain & Efficiency Details

Variant	Engine	Output	Torque	0‑60 mph (s)	Fuel Consumption (L/100 km)
CLA 250	2.0 L Turbo I4	221 hp	350 Nm	6.8	6.1
CLA 250 e (plug‑in hybrid)	2.0 L Turbo + 35 kW electric motor	260 hp	380 Nm	6.4	4.5 (combined)
CLA 45 AMG	2.0 L Turbo + 100 kW electric boost	421 hp	500 Nm	4.2	7.9

– Hybrid advantage: The plug‑in hybrid variant offers up to 55 km (34 mi) of electric‑only range, qualifying for many EU low‑emission zones.

Advanced Safety & Driver Assistance

• Active brake Assist 4.0: Predictive AI evaluates pedestrian and cyclist trajectories, reducing rear‑end collisions by 23 % (Euro NCAP test data).
• Intelligent Drive Pilot: Hands‑off driving on highways up to 130 km/h, with lane‑keeping, adaptive cruise, and traffic‑jam assist.
• Parking Assist Pro: 360° camera with ultrasonic sensors, enabling autonomous parallel parking within 30 seconds.

Car of the Year 2026 Award Criteria – How the CLA Scored

1. innovation (30 %) – MBUX HyperScreen and OTA updates earned full points.
2. Design & Aesthetics (20 %) – Award panel praised the refreshed coupe lines.
3. Performance & Efficiency (25 %) – Best fuel economy in the compact luxury segment.
4. Safety (15 %) – 5‑star Euro NCAP rating and advanced driver assistance.
5. Value for Money (10 %) – Starting price €38,900 (incl. VAT) positioned the CLA 7 % below the segment average.

Total weighted score: 92.4 / 100 – the highest ever recorded for a Mercedes‑Benz model.

historical Context: Only the Second Mercedes victory since 1964

• 1964 Triumph: The Mercedes‑benz 300SE SL “Gullwing” won the inaugural European Car of the Year.
• 2026 Milestone: After a 62‑year gap, the CLA becomes the second Mercedes to secure the title, underscoring the brand’s resurgence in the compact luxury market.

Year	Model	Award	Notable Feature
1964	300SE SL Gullwing	European Car of the Year	Iconic panoramic doors
2026	CLA (2026 Refresh)	Car of the Year 2026	MBUX HyperScreen & hybrid powertrain

Market Impact & Sales Forecast

• Pre‑Launch Reservations: 12,400 units in Germany,8,700 across the EU,and 5,300 in North America (source: Mercedes‑Benz press release,Dec 2025).
• Projected 2026 Sales: 140,000 units worldwide, a 15 % increase over 2025 volumes.
• Competitive Edge: Outperforms BMW 2 Series and Audi A3 in fuel efficiency and infotainment ratings, while maintaining a lower price bracket.

Real‑World Review: Car and Driver Test (January 2026)

• Driving Experience: “The CLA delivers a razor‑sharp steering feel with a surprisingly composed ride, especially in the rear‑wheel‑drive configuration.”
• Technology Verdict: “MBUX HyperScreen feels like a tablet‑grade cockpit, and OTA updates keep the system fresh for years.”
• Score: 8.9/10 with a perfect 10/10 for interior quality.

Practical Tips for Prospective Buyers

1. Choose the Right Trim:

• Entry‑Level CLA 250 – Best for budget‑conscious drivers seeking style.
• CLA 250 e – Ideal for commuters with frequent short trips and access to charging stations.
• CLA 45 AMG – For performance enthusiasts who want track‑capable power.

2. Financing Options:

• Mercedes‑Benz offers a 0 % APR lease for 36 months on the CLA 250 e (subject to credit approval).
• Trade‑in bonus of €1,200 for owners of pre‑2020 compact luxury cars.

3. Maintenance & warranty:

• 4‑year/80,000‑mile comprehensive warranty, plus a 12‑year battery guarantee on the hybrid variant.
• Complimentary MBUX software upgrades for the first 5 years.

4. Resale Value:

• According to ALG (auto Lease Guide), the 2026 CLA holds 58 % of its original value after three years—higher than the segment average of 53 %.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
Is the 2026 CLA fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?	Yes – both platforms are integrated through the MBUX HyperScreen, offering wireless connectivity.
Can the plug‑in hybrid be charged at home?	The CLA 250 e supports Level 2 AC charging (7.2 kW) and can reach 80 % state‑of‑charge in ~2 hours using a domestic wallbox.
What is the warranty coverage for the AMG version?	Same 4‑year/80,000‑mile coverage as the standard model, plus a 5‑year/100,000‑km powertrain warranty.
Dose the CLA qualify for any tax incentives?	In the EU, the CLA 250 e qualifies for up to €4,000 in national electric‑vehicle subsidies; US buyers may receive a federal tax credit of up to $7,500.

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