Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake Unveiled

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The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has officially debuted as part of Mercedes’ “Entry Luxury” lineup. It arrives alongside the saloon variant, adopting Mercedes’ new electric-first platform, updated visuals, and a reworked cabin layout. Despite its electric underpinnings, it maintains familiar proportions and design cues from the outgoing generation.

Exterior & Platform

The CLA Shooting Brake is based on the Modular Mercedes Architecture (MMA), which is built to support multiple drivetrains, particularly electric-only configurations. The shooting brake variant retains the long-roof silhouette with shortened overhangs and updated proportions, but the overall shape is immediately recognisable.

The front fascia features a redesigned LED headlamp setup with a star-pattern grille. At the rear, the tail-lights receive a new lighting signature, while the bumper design has been mildly revised. Ground clearance and wheel sizes are unchanged from the outgoing ICE model.

Electric Powertrain & Range

The vehicle adopts an 800V electrical architecture for faster charging times and improved thermal efficiency. The system supports bidirectional charging and energy recuperation.

The WLTP-certified range exceeds 750 KM on a full charge. This figure surpasses the EQE and edges past EVs from competitors like Hyundai and Tesla. Mercedes claims to use next-gen silicon oxide battery chemistry for better energy density.

Interior & Infotainment

Inside, the CLA Shooting Brake features the MBUX Superscreen, a single display panel that stretches across the dashboard. It integrates a digital instrument cluster, central touchscreen, and a separate display for the front passenger. The system runs on MB.OS, Mercedes’ in-house operating system with OTA update support.

Physical controls have been reduced across the board. Traditional stalks and buttons have been phased out in favour of capacitive touch surfaces, including key controls such as the HVAC system. Vent design follows the turbine layout seen in existing models.

Conclusion & Pricing

The CLA Shooting Brake will be positioned in the compact luxury segment and is expected to replace the current CLA ICE model. Production will take place at Mercedes’ plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2025. Availability for the Indian market remains unconfirmed.