The new generation Mercedes-Benz CLA wins the most coveted car trophy of the year 2026
Mercedes-Benz CLA is the 2026 European Car of the Year: Victory for German Innovation
The victory of the new generation Mercedes-Benz CLA at the Car of the Year 2026 gala marks a historic moment for the Stuttgart-based manufacturer. It is only the second time in over half a century that Mercedes-Benz has managed to obtain this prestigious trophy, after the resounding success of the 450 SE/SEL model in 1974.
Here is a detailed analysis of the new European champion, its technical performance and how it redefines the compact segment in Romania.
A success based on innovation: Why did the CLA win?
The jury, made up of 59 automotive journalists from 23 countries, awarded the new CLA a total of 320 points, giving it a considerable lead over its competitors on the podium: the Skoda Elroq (220 points) and the Kia EV4 (208 points).
The decisive factor was the revolutionary MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture), which allows the new CLA to be a leader in efficiency, regardless of the engine. The electric version impressed with:
- Record autonomy: Up to 792 km (WLTP) for the CLA 250+ variant, a figure that completely eliminates “range anxiety”.
- Ultra-fast charging: Thanks to the 800V system, the car can recover 325 km of autonomy in just 10 minutes.
- AI technology: The new MB.OS operating system integrates advanced virtual assistants (including support for Google Gemini), offering an unprecedented digital experience.
Romanian market: Configurations and Prices
In Romania, the new CLA generation was received with great interest, with order lists already open. Romanian customers can opt for both fully electric versions and the new, extremely efficient 1.5-liter mild-hybrid engines.
| Model / Version | Power Output | Drivetrain | Starting Price (VAT incl.) |
| CLA 180 (Mild-Hybrid) | 136 + 30 HP | FWD | from €42,970 |
| CLA 220 4Matic (MHEV) | 190 + 30 HP | AWD | from €49,350 |
| CLA 250+ (Electric) | 272 HP | RWD | from €51,770 |
| CLA 350 4Matic (Electric) | 354 HP | AWD | from €57,910 |
Prices may vary depending on the equipment packages (Progressive, AMG Line or AMG Line Plus).
Competition: Who stands in the way of the new champion?
Although it won the European title, the CLA has to fight in an extremely competitive Romanian market, where customer preferences are divided between luxury, autonomy and price.
- Tesla Model 3: The main rival for the electric version. Although Tesla offers superior acceleration performance, Mercedes scores decisively in the quality of finishes, comfort and charging speed on the 800V architecture.
- BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: It remains the choice of those looking for sportier driving dynamics, although the CLA has recovered a lot of ground in this regard with the new suspension.
- Dacia Bigster: Although it is part of a different segment (SUV), the Bigster was a strong finalist in the competition. On the local market, the Bigster attracts customers who prioritize space and the price/features ratio, being a rational alternative to compact luxury.
The verdict for Romania
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is not just a "beautiful" car, but a technological manifesto. In Romania, its success is guaranteed by the brand's status, but also by the efficiency of hybrid engines, which remain the favorites of the public that is not yet ready for the complete transition to electric.
With a design that borrows elements from the Vision EQXX concept and an interior dominated by the MBUX Superscreen, the 2026 CLA manages to justify the title of “Car of the Year” with a balanced mix of traditional luxury and cutting-edge technology.
If you are planning a purchase, keep in mind that delivery times have already been extended to the second half of 2026 due to high demand at the European level.
Conclusion: A new benchmark for the digital age
The victory of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA at the 2026 Car of the Year gala is not just a marketing success, but a confirmation of the fact that the future of the automobile combines extreme efficiency with digital luxury. By overtaking formidable competitors such as the Skoda Elroq or the Kia EV4, the German manufacturer demonstrates that the compact segment remains relevant when supported by revolutionary technology, such as the 800V architecture and the MB.OS system.
In Romania, although the starting price of over €42,000 places it in an exclusive area, the CLA manages to offer something for everyone: refined efficiency through mild-hybrid variants and top performance for fans of electric mobility. In a local market in full transition, the new European champion has all the arguments to become not only a status symbol, but also a sales leader in the premium segment, restoring Mercedes-Benz's dominance after more than half a century since the last trophy.