The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA has been awarded the European Car of the Year 2026 title at a ceremony at the Brussels Motor Show in Belgium.

The new CLA combines stunning design, advanced safety, and dynamic performance, redefining what’s possible in its segment. It is the smartest, most flexible Mercedes-Benz yet delivered, and it’s ready to transform every journey into something extraordinary.

The new CLA is a game-changer, setting new benchmarks in intelligence, efficiency and design. With its groundbreaking MB.OS operating system and next-generation MBUX powered by AI, the new CLA delivers an effortless, intuitive driving experience that gives customers a true “Welcome home.” feeling. Its electric variant boasts an extraordinary range – up to 492 miles – making every journey seamless and worry-free. And when customers do eventually need to charge, its 800V technology can add up to 202 miles of range in just 10 minutes¹.

On sale in Europe since mid-2025, and arriving in the USA and many other countries soon, the CLA has already proved incredibly successful. Electrified by its recognition from international media, customer orders exceeded expectations and the order bank is already filled until well into the second half of 2026. At the start of a jubilee year celebrating 140 years of innovation since Carl Benz invented the automobile in 1886, this award is the first highlight in what will be a full calendar of events.

This international recognition by 60 leading automotive journalists from 23 countries underscores the innovative strength of the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which prevailed against 34 other new models and six finalists with 320 points.