2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA C118

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA: Hybrid Powertrain with 48-Volt Technology

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will be available as a hybrid model featuring 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated into the transmission. This setup allows for efficient energy use while maintaining flexibility in powertrain configurations. The hybrid variant retains a design closely resembling the all-electric model, with one notable distinction—a traditional grille featuring the Mercedes-Benz star pattern in chrome and framed by an LED light guide.

Efficient Powertrain and Driving Modes

The CLA hybrid powertrain includes a newly developed 48-volt lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of up to 1.3 kWh. The electric motor enhances acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, and supports fully electric driving in urban conditions when power demand remains below 20 kW. The system enables electric coasting at speeds of up to 100 km/h while also recovering up to 25 kW of energy through regenerative braking in all eight gears.

• The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will be available as both a plug-in hybrid with 48-volt technology and an all-electric model, offering flexibility based on driving needs.
• The hybrid variant retains a similar exterior design to the electric model, with the main difference being the traditional front grille with a chrome Mercedes-Benz star pattern.
• The hybrid powertrain integrates a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, improving efficiency and performance.
• A 48-volt lithium-ion battery with up to 1.3 kWh of energy storage enables electric-only driving at low speeds and energy recuperation across all eight gears.
• The hybrid system supports electric coasting at speeds up to 100 km/h, enhancing efficiency while reducing emissions.
• The M 252 four-cylinder engine is part of the Mercedes-Benz Family of Modular Engines (FAME) and features Miller cycle combustion for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• The engine block is made of lightweight aluminum with NANOSLIDE® technology, and a turbocharger with a segmented turbine improves performance.
• The compact engine-transmission design optimizes space and enhances Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) levels with sound insulation extending into the A-pillars and floor.
• Production of the CLA hybrid and electric models will take place at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt, Germany, using a carbon-neutral production process powered by 100% green electricity.
• The Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a chip-to-cloud architecture, will be used in the CLA, allowing centralized vehicle software updates and improved digital integration.

The hybrid drivetrain integrates a compact eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (8F-eDCT). This electrohydraulic system manages power distribution via two drive clutches and a disconnect clutch, optimizing efficiency and ensuring seamless transitions between the combustion engine and electric motor. The absence of a conventional starter motor allows for a smooth start-stop function.

New Four-Cylinder Engine with Miller Cycle Technology

The CLA hybrid utilizes a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine from the Family of Modular Engines (FAME). Designated as the M 252, this power unit features an aluminum crankcase with NANOSLIDE® technology, a partially integrated exhaust manifold, and a turbocharger with a segmented turbine. Its Miller cycle combustion process enhances efficiency by reducing throttling losses and increasing compression to 12:1. This design minimizes fuel consumption and NOx emissions, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions.

Refined Engineering for Comfort and Noise Reduction

The compact engine-transmission unit is transversely mounted between the steering knuckles, contributing to reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Mercedes-Benz employs extensive insulation measures, including an NVH package with foams and covers, a double-bulkhead design, and extended insulation along the A-pillar and floor to enhance cabin comfort.

Sustainable Production at the Rastatt Plant

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA hybrid will be manufactured alongside its all-electric counterpart at the Rastatt plant in Germany. Production is net carbon-neutral, with the facility utilizing 100% green electricity. The plant serves as a hub for the "Digital First" manufacturing approach, incorporating digital twin simulations to optimize assembly line conversions. The CLA will also debut the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), centralizing vehicle software management through the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud.

The Rastatt plant also produces other models in the compact lineup, including the A-Class, B-Class, GLA SUV, and the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQA. The integration of digital production techniques and sustainable energy sources underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to efficiency and innovation in vehicle manufacturing.

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