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Mercedes‑Benz CLA Named European Car of the Year 2026

The result highlights a jury focus on advanced electric powertrains, long range, and rapid charging.

Overview

  • The model secured 320 points, ahead of the Skoda Elroq on 220 and the Kia EV4 on 208.
  • The decision came at the Brussels Motor Show from a 59‑member jury representing 23 countries.
  • Jurors awarded the CLA the most first‑place votes with 22, while Spain’s six jurors favored the Citroën C5 Aircross in their national tally.
  • This is Mercedes‑Benz’s first Car of the Year win since 1974, in a finalist field dominated by electrified models.
  • The winning CLA launches in two 85 kWh EV versions with WLTP ranges of about 790 km and 764 km plus a 58 kWh variant, and supports 800‑volt charging up to 320 kW.