2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA: Hybrid MPG, Price & Specifications
— IIHS, NHTSA, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA falls below average for fuel cost among mid-range Sedans. NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
- Starting MSRP
- $42,750 - $67,550
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23-30 MPG (Gas)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $2,300 - $2,500 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 6 / 10
- Recalls on File
- No recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- $2,000 more over 5 yrs
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $982 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.64
- Brand Origin
- Germany
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is a Sedan priced from $42,750 to $67,550 with 6 trims. For a daily driver, fuel cost and reliability matter most. Both are covered below.
- 5-year ownership cost $11,901 above mid-range Sedans average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Avg repair cost $154 per year above Sedan average
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA at a Glance
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
Strengths in the data
- AAA estimates $9,479 per year in non-fuel ownership costs for the Hybrid class, including insurance ($1,571), maintenance ($1,551), and depreciation ($3,535).
Cautions in the data
- 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 →
- Fuel cost is a real drawback here: Above-average fuel cost among hybrid Sedans. Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2026 →
Similar vehicles to compare
A strong NHTSA score is a good starting point. IIHS testing adds scenarios NHTSA does not cover, including the small-overlap crash that accounts for a significant share of real-world fatalities.
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. 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
Crash tests show how a vehicle handles impacts in a lab. The recall record shows what has gone wrong after thousands of 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLAs have been driven on real roads.
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 recall campaigns. Recalls can be issued at any time as new issues are identified. Source: NHTSA.
No recalls on file with NHTSA
What Do 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Owners Report to NHTSA?
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 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle driven daily, fuel cost compounds fast. The difference between 30 and 40 MPG is roughly $400 per year at average gas prices and 15,000 miles.
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 $2,300. That is $212 more per year than the $2,088 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 | $2,300 per year |
| CLA 250 4MATIC | 29 MPG | 25 | 34 | $2,400 per year |
| CLA 250+ w/EQ Technology | 23 MPGe | 20 | 28 | $2,500 per year |
| CLA 350 4MATIC w/EQ Technology | 23 MPGe | 20 | 28 | $2,500 per year |
| AMG CLA 35 | 29 MPG | 25 | 34 | $2,400 per year |
| AMG CLA 45 S | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,500 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $11,500 to $12,500 depending on trim.
The most efficient trim ranks in the top 15% for fuel cost within its EPA vehicle class.
For a daily driver, fuel is the cost you see. Insurance, depreciation, and maintenance are the costs you feel at tax time. AAA estimates all of them for the Hybrid class.
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 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,571 per year |
| Depreciation | $3,535 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $721 per year |
| Financing | $1,001 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,479 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.64 per mile |
For a daily commute, the most fuel-efficient trim often delivers the best long-term value. The comparison below shows fuel economy, price, and estimated cost for all 6 options.
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 | $2,300 per year | FWD | 221 hp | 4,530 lbs | $99,895 |
| CLA 250 4MATIC | $44,750 | 29 MPG | $2,400 per year | AWD | 221 hp | 4,530 lbs | $102,145 |
| CLA 250+ w/EQ Technology | $47,250 | 23 MPGe | $2,500 per year | RWD | 268 hp | 4,530 lbs | $112,115 |
| CLA 350 4MATIC w/EQ Technology | $49,800 | 23 MPGe | $2,500 per year | AWD | 349 hp | 4,530 lbs | $114,665 |
| AMG CLA 35 | $56,600 | 29 MPG | $2,400 per year | AWD | 302 hp | 3,703 lbs | $115,495 |
| AMG CLA 45 S | $67,550 | 23 MPG | $2,500 per year | 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
Picking a trim covers the upfront decision. The next question is what happens after year one. RepairPal tracks how often this model needs repairs and what they cost.
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.
RepairPal rates what repairs cost out of pocket. The warranty determines what Mercedes-Benz covers at no cost. Here are the published terms.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Come With?
Here is what Mercedes-Benz covers at no cost for the 2026 CLA. Basic coverage handles most defects. Powertrain coverage protects the engine and transmission for a longer period. Both start from the original purchase date.
| Basic Warranty | 4yr/50k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k |
What Are the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Specs?
Dimensions, weight, and powertrain details for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. These figures are published by Mercedes-Benz and apply to the base configuration unless noted. Specific trims may differ.
EPA vehicle class: Compact car
| Engine | 2L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 221 - 416 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 97.6 - 219.5 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $143 - $202 |
| 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 |
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA. For a daily commuter, fuel cost and reliability are usually the deciding factors, and both are covered above. Data is refreshed periodically.
Data coverage & source links
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.
Verify this data
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA FAQ
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.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
In the sedan segment, the closest alternatives to the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA are 2026 Toyota Crown (starting at $41,440, 5-star NHTSA, 30 MPG); and 2026 BMW 3 Series (starting at $48,000, 5-star NHTSA, 18-31 MPG); and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI (starting at $33,745, 5-star NHTSA, 29 MPG). Each page on this site covers the same data sources 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 $192 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $982 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.
Where is Mercedes-Benz based?
Mercedes-Benz is headquartered in Germany. Brand origin reflects where the company is based, not where individual vehicles are assembled. Many Mercedes-Benz vehicles sold in the U.S. are built at domestic or international plants. See our Germany-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Mercedes-Benz models are available for 2026?
Mercedes-Benz offers multiple models for 2026. Our Mercedes-Benz models page lists every available Mercedes-Benz vehicle with safety ratings, fuel costs, and ownership data.
What does the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA cost per mile to drive?
Based on AAA ownership cost estimates and EPA fuel data, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA costs approximately 63.9 cents per mile to operate, including fuel, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing. Actual cost per mile depends on your annual mileage, driving habits, and location.
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.