2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA
This page covers the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA, a Sedan available in 6 trims from $42,750 to $67,550. Below you will find crash test ratings, fuel cost data, reliability scores, recall history, ownership costs, and manufacturer specifications, each sourced and linked to the original publisher.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA earns a C for fuel cost among mid-range Sedans. NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Published crash-test coverage is incomplete for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA, and the currently available data does not surface a clear advantage over similar sedans. The main caution is that reliability is a weak spot.
- ownership cost
Strongest published signals
- AAA estimates $9,479/yr in non-fuel ownership costs for the Hybrid class, including insurance ($1,571), maintenance ($1,551), and depreciation ($3,535).
Limits and cautions
- Crash-test coverage is incomplete: NHTSA data is not available for this model yet.
- Reliability is weak by current standards: RepairPal 2.5/5. Most reliable Sedans 2026 →
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup still lands about $11,901 above the similar-vehicle average.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $42,750 - $67,550
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23-30 MPG (Gas)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,950 - $2,500/yr
- Recalls on File
- No recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- $2,000 more over 5 yrs
- Brand Origin
- Germany
NHTSA and IIHS test vehicles independently using different crash scenarios. Together, they provide the most complete picture of a vehicle's crashworthiness.
How Did the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. IIHS tests are independent of NHTSA and use different crash configurations. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | A Acceptable |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | G Good |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize luxury cars
Beyond crash test performance, the recall record shows whether the manufacturer has identified and addressed any safety-related defects after the vehicle went on sale.
Does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. For context, the average Sedan has 1.2 recall campaigns. Recalls can be issued at any time as new issues are identified. Source: NHTSA.
No recalls on file with NHTSA
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA complaint data is not available for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. This does not mean there are no complaints. The model may not yet be tracked in the NHTSA database.
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
With the safety picture established, the next question is cost. Fuel is typically the largest variable expense for most drivers.
What Is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Fuel Economy?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA achieves up to 30 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,950. That is $176 more per year than the $1,774 average for mid-range Sedans. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 23 to 30 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLA 250 | 30 MPG | 26 | 36 | $1,950/yr |
| CLA 250 4MATIC | 29 MPG | 25 | 34 | $2,000/yr |
| CLA 250+ w/EQ Technology | 23 MPGe | 20 | 28 | $2,500/yr |
| CLA 350 4MATIC w/EQ Technology | 23 MPGe | 20 | 28 | $2,500/yr |
| AMG CLA 35 | 25 MPG | 22 | 29 | $2,300/yr |
| AMG CLA 45 S | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,500/yr |
Fuel is only one part of the ownership cost equation. AAA estimates the full picture: insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing.
What Does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA ranges from $99,895 to $115,495 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Hybrid class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,551/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,571/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,535/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $721/yr |
| Financing | $1,001/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,479/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.64/mi |
Total cost varies significantly by trim. The table below breaks down each trim so you can see exactly where your money goes.
How Do the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Trims Compare?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in 6 trims, with base prices ranging from $42,750 to $67,550. Trims are available with Hybrid and Electric and Gasoline powertrains, which affects fuel economy and pricing. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLA 250 | $42,750 | 30 MPG | $1,950/yr | FWD | 221 hp | 4,530 lbs | $99,895 |
| CLA 250 4MATIC | $44,750 | 29 MPG | $2,000/yr | AWD | 221 hp | 4,530 lbs | $102,145 |
| CLA 250+ w/EQ Technology | $47,250 | 23 MPGe | $2,500/yr | RWD | 268 hp | 4,530 lbs | $112,115 |
| CLA 350 4MATIC w/EQ Technology | $49,800 | 23 MPGe | $2,500/yr | AWD | 349 hp | 4,530 lbs | $114,665 |
| AMG CLA 35 | $56,600 | 25 MPG | $2,300/yr | AWD | 302 hp | 3,703 lbs | $115,495 |
| AMG CLA 45 S | $67,550 | 23 MPG | $2,500/yr | AWD | 416 hp | 3,791 lbs | $114,150 |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Choosing a trim is also about long-term dependability. The section below shows the third-party reliability rating available for this model.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
RepairPal rates the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA at 2.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, below average for mid-range Sedans. This may mean higher repair frequency or more costly repairs over time. Source: RepairPal.
The manufacturer's warranty provides a baseline of coverage. Here is what Mercedes-Benz includes.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Come With?
Mercedes-Benz provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 CLA. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 4yr/50k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k |
What Are the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 2L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 221 - 416 hp |
| Torque | 247 - 380 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual, 2-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required), electric |
| Fuel Tank | 13.5 gal |
| Length | 184.6 - 185.9 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 72.0 - 73.1 in |
| Height | 55.3 - 57.8 in |
| Wheelbase | 107.4 - 109.8 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,703 - 4,530 lbs |
Data Coverage
The following data categories are not yet available for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA: NHTSA has not yet published crash test results for this vehicle. Learn how we collect, verify, and present vehicle data.
All data shown for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA comes from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references. This page updates automatically when source agencies publish new information. See our methodology page for details on data collection and verification.
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA FAQ
How does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA compare to other sedans?
Based on published data, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA has a fuel cost grade of C, a RepairPal reliability score of 2.5/5, and zero recalls on file. These grades compare it against similar sedans in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest Sedans 2026 list.
Which 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 6 available trims, the CLA 250 has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $99,895, starting at $42,750 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $115,495. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Hybrid class at $1,571 per year, or about $131 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Hybrid class at $1,551 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,571/yr) and depreciation ($3,535/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $9,479 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA depreciate?
AAA estimates the Hybrid class depreciates about $3,535 per year, or roughly $17,675 over five years. On a base MSRP of $42,750, that represents about 41% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The most efficient 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA trim costs an estimated $1,950 per year in fuel, or about $163 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $176 more than the average for similar sedans. See our Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA include 2026 Toyota Crown, 2026 BMW 3 Series, and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 Sedans.
How much does a 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA include about $790 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $163 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $953 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA available as a hybrid?
Yes, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is available with a hybrid powertrain option alongside conventional powertrains. Hybrid trims typically offer better fuel economy at a higher starting price compared to conventional gas trims. See our Hybrid Sedans 2026 list.
Has the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA been recalled?
No. As of this writing, NHTSA has zero recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Recalls can be issued at any time, so this status may change. You can check for updates on the NHTSA website. See our Zero-recall cars 2026 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.