2026 Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake Shows That Wagons Can Be Attractive as Well | Carscoops

      The practical wagon variant of the CLA will merge stylish aesthetics within a compact form.

      Our spy photographers have captured the first prototype of the upcoming CLA Shooting Brake.

      This model follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, showcasing a streamlined wagon profile.

      Similar to the standard CLA sedan, it is anticipated to provide hybrid and electric powertrain alternatives.

      Mercedes is preparing to introduce the completely redesigned CLA, available in both electric and internal combustion engine versions. Although the company has chosen to reduce the number of compact models, the fastback sedan will soon be accompanied by a Shooting Brake variant, with the first camouflaged prototype making its spy debut in Europe.

      In September 2023, Mercedes announced that its compact range would include successors to the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB, but not the A-Class and B-Class. The CLA Shooting Brake is likely the most intriguing in terms of design, blending the sleek aesthetics of the sedan with the practicality offered by a wagon body for its third generation.

      The prototype shown has camouflage only on its front and rear sections. The front will share features with the standard CLA, including the low-positioned grille and striking headlights with star-shaped LEDs. The profile also mimics features like the flush door handles, although the greenhouse and roofline have undergone redesign.

      In this specific prototype, Mercedes has included aluminum accents around the windows and on the slender roof rails, which helps distinguish it from the four-door variant. Notably, the rear design is a focal point for the Shooting Brake. The new generation features updated LED taillights with oval graphics and a noticeably smaller rear window.

      Inside, the new CLA lineup will include a digital cockpit operating on the latest MB.OS software equipped with AI technology. The Shooting Brake is expected to provide a larger trunk space along with additional headroom compared to the fastback sedan.

      Hybrid and Electric Options

      Mercedes’ compact range will utilize the MMA architecture, compatible with both ICE and EV powertrains. Fortunately, Mercedes has given details on the CLA powertrains, indicating what the CLA Shooting Brake will offer.

      The zero-emissions CLA will have an option for a rear electric motor producing 268 hp (200 kW), or an all-wheel-drive configuration that adds a 107 hp (80 kW) motor in the front. Energy will be stored in battery packs with capacities of 58 kWh or 85 kWh, promising a range of up to 750 km (466 miles). Given the aerodynamic design of the Shooting Brake, it is likely to achieve a range close to this figure.

      The hybrid range will feature a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine available in versions of 134 hp (136 PS), 161 hp (163 PS), and 188 hp (190 PS), supported by a 27 hp (20 kW) electric motor integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The hybrid CLA is also anticipated to come with an optional all-wheel drive, or 4Matic as referred to in Mercedes’ terminology.

      According to our sources, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is set to be unveiled by the end of the year, with its market launch planned for early 2026. In total, Mercedes has committed to introducing 36 new models by 2027.