If You Found the Celebrity-Filled CLA Disappointing, Take a Look at This Work of…Art | Carscoops

      The unique model was designed by Ice Spice and showcases the latest luxury vehicle.

      April 18, 2025, at 19:10

      By Michael Gauthier

      Mercedes has introduced the U.S. version of the 2026 CLA at an event in New York, where they also revealed a new art car.

      This art piece, developed in partnership with Ice Spice, marks the first of five unique models. The CLA will be made available in the U.S. as an electric vehicle, with a hybrid version expected to follow later.

      At the New York Auto Show, Subaru made headlines with its marshmallow display and the Wagon Queen Family Truckster, but surprisingly, the title for the least attractive car in the city went to the CLA art car, revealed at Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan.

      This vehicle is the inaugural model in a "Class of Creators" series, made in collaboration with Ice Spice, an American rapper who is younger than the Spice Girls. While this realization may date many of us, the four-time Grammy-nominated artist showcased a "molten chrome" CLA adorned with a diamond-encrusted Princess chain.

      The design gives the starry yet lifeless CLA a look as though it is melting on a hot summer day. In addition to this, the art car features slanted wheels, faux jewel-covered tires, metallic accents, and a familiar grille with a distinctive border.

      Though the art car may appear more like rubbish than riches, four additional models are on the way. A Gustaf Westman edition will be revealed on May 22, followed by KidSuper’s on June 28, with further designs from Hot Wheels and League of Legends to follow.

      Meanwhile, the official 2026 CLA has quietly made its debut.

      Mercedes also presented the U.S. debut of the 2026 CLA in New York, although details were scarce. The European version launched earlier this year features an aerodynamic design and a minimalist interior, which can be fitted with an MBUX Superscreen. This includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and a 14-inch display for the front passenger, all powered by the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System that incorporates AI along with Google and Microsoft technologies.

      The CLA will be marketed as an electric vehicle, with two configurations available for American consumers. The CLA 250+ equipped with EQ Technology features a rear-mounted motor producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in about 6.6 seconds, reach a capped top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h), and offer a WLTP range of 431-492 miles (694-792 km).

      The CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology represents a significant upgrade, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that generates a total output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque. This added power and traction enable the vehicle to reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.8 seconds, while the top speed remains the same. However, the range is reduced to 418-479 miles (672-771 km).

      A Hybrid Version Is Also Coming Soon

      Mercedes has also announced that the U.S. will receive a CLA with a 48-volt hybrid powertrain. Information about this variant is limited, but the company has previously indicated it will feature a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 1.3 kWh battery, and an electric motor integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The hybrid is anticipated to be available with two different outputs and may offer both front- and all-wheel drive options, at least in Europe.