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The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA starts from $82,000. Photos: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has opened orders for its all-new CLA in New Zealand, with buyers able to choose between a petrol-electric hybrid and a fully electric version of the compact luxury sedan.
The new-generation CLA, named European Car of the Year 2026 in January, is built on a new modular platform designed to accommodate both electrified combustion and battery-electric powertrains.
Two models are available: the CLA 220 4MATIC hybrid, priced from $93,900, and the CLA 200 electric, priced from $82,000.
The all-new CLA has a 10.25-inch driver display with a 14-inch central touchscreen.
Both feature redesigned styling, a new digital architecture and Mercedes-Benz's latest MB.OS operating system.
The exterior has been developed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.21Cd. The electric model features an illuminated grille with 142 individual LED stars, while the hybrid retains a traditional Mercedes-Benz star-pattern grille.
Inside, the CLA has a minimalist design dominated by digital displays. A panoramic glass roof is standard, along with heated front seats, ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging and facial recognition.
Its AI-powered voice assistant incorporates ChatGPT.
The MBUX Superscreen combines a 10.25-inch driver display with a 14-inch central touchscreen and an optional 14-inch passenger display. The system operates on Mercedes-Benz's new MB.OS platform, which supports over-the-air updates.
Its AI-powered voice assistant incorporates ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Bing technologies, while entertainment options include Netflix and Disney+.
The CLA 200 electric uses a 200kW rear-mounted electric motor and a two-speed transmission. Its 800-volt electrical architecture supports DC fast charging at up to 320kW, while a standard DC converter allows it to use 400-volt charging infrastructure in New Zealand.
The CLA 200 electric can also be ordered with a $2,100 Premium Package.
The CLA 220 4MATIC combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a 1.3kWh lithium-ion battery. Its electric motor is integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing assistance during acceleration and allowing electric-only driving at lower speeds when power demand is below 20kW. The model also features all-wheel drive.
Safety equipment includes a centre airbag, 360-degree camera, PARKTRONIC and Parking Assist. The electric CLA achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2025.
Both models feature a new three-link front suspension and multi-link rear axle, designed to improve ride comfort and handling.
The new-generation CLA was named European Car of the Year 2026.
The CLA 200 electric can also be ordered with a $2,100 Premium Package, adding a head-up display, adaptive headlights, the MBUX Superscreen and Burmester surround sound system.
The new CLA models are available to order online and through Mercedes-Benz New Zealand retailers from today, with customer test drives scheduled to begin in December.
