Mercedes-Benz CLA crowned European Car of the Year 2026
European judges have voted the Mercedes-Benz CLA their car of the year for 2026.
The all-electric saloon from Stuttgart beat six other shortlisted contenders, including four other pure EVs, to claim the prestigious title, which was announced at the Brussels Motor Show.
It is only Mercedes’ second ever win in the European Car of the Year competition, coming 52 years after Mercedes-Benz 450 SE/SEL took the crown.
A panel of 59 judges from 23 countries picked Mercede’s entry-level EV ahead of the Škoda Elroq; Kia EV4; Citroën C5 Aircross; Fiat Grande Panda; Dacia Bigster and Renault 4. The CLA secured a total of 320 points putting it clearly ahead of the second-place Elroq on 220. Twenty-two judges also ranked it as their overall number one vehicle.
The CLA is Mercedes’ new entry-level EV but brings impressive technical innovations including a range of 492 miles and charging speeds of up to 320kW, courtesy of its 800V architecture.
Mercedes said the CLA’s victory was the first highlight in a “full calendar” of events as the marque celebrates its 140th anniversary.
Mercedes chairman Ola Källenius commented: “The new CLA was named Car of the Year 2026 — a proud moment for Mercedes‑Benz.
“Jurors from across Europe have confirmed what our customers have been telling us: the CLA is a game-changer, delivering outstanding efficiency and effortless intelligence.”
Originally launched in two-wheel-drive saloon variant, the CLA line-up has been expanded with the CLA Shooting Brake estate and a broader range of powertrains including a 348bhp all-wheel-drive option.
It has been on sale in Europe and the UK since last year, with the first UK customer deliveries expected in the coming weeks. The CLA is due to go on sale in the United States in the coming months.
2026 marks the fifth year an EV has taken the grand prize of European Car of the Year. Prior to the CLA’s victory the Renault 5, Renault Scenic, Jeep Avenger and Kia EV6 all claimed the title.
