Next-Gen Mercedes CLA features and design revealed ahead of launch

ABU DHABI: The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class new generation is all set to debut next year, and an exclusive sneak peek has been provided by the automaker. In France, during the Festival d’Hyères, Mercedes revealed the upcoming compact sedan’s lightly camouflaged prototype, which will be available in both hybrid and electric versions.

The next-gen CLA will retain its four-door design. It features a swooping roofline that contributes to a mini-CLS coupe-like appearance. The bumper and wider grille merge together, and the redesigned headlamps look like the ones present in the concept model. The new CLA has been built on the MRA modular platform and supports various powertrains, including conventional hybrids, EVs, and plug-in hybrids.

While the coupe’s interior is still under wrap, it is estimated to mirror the concept with various shades and textures. The new CLA comes with a full-width MBUX Superscreen that you will also find in the Vision EQXX, and will run on the new MB.OS operating system of Mercedes-Benz. This chip-to-cloud architecture will make it easy to access Google Maps and other embedded apps.

The new CLA-Class is anticipated to launch sometime next year in the European market, followed by its 2026 arrival in North America. In the subcompact premium sedan segment, it will continue to compete alongside the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and Audi A3 sedan. We do not have any information about the launch of the new CLA in the UAE.

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