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Mercedes-Benz Launches All-Electric CLA Shooting Brake
Mercedes-Benz is pushing the boundaries of electric mobility with the debut of its first-ever fully electric Shooting Brake. Building upon the success of the recently unveiled third-generation CLA, the iconic German automaker is expanding its portfolio by introducing a Shooting Brake variant that combines luxury, versatility, and impressive electric range. This model sets a new standard for electric station wagons and caters to car enthusiasts seeking practicality without compromising on style or performance.
Distinctive Shooting Brake Design: Form Meets Function
The Shooting Brake body style, a unique offering from Mercedes-Benz, merges the elegant silhouette of a four-door coupe with an extended rear for enhanced cargo space and functionality. Traditionally seen as a stylish alternative to conventional station wagons, the new CLA Shooting Brake stands out with its sleek profile and premium detailing, making it an eye-catching choice in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
Heritage and Evolution
Mercedes-Benz first entered the Shooting Brake segment in 2012 with the CLS Shooting Brake, followed by the first-generation CLA Shooting Brake three years later. This latest iteration, however, is the brand’s first to leverage EV power, marking a pivotal moment in the brand’s dedication to electrification and innovative automotive design.
Best-in-Class Interior Space and Versatility
Compared to the previous generation, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake sets itself apart with improved dimensions and greater practicality. The model offers generous space for up to five passengers, with rear passengers benefitting from an increased roofline that adds 7 mm of headroom, while those in the front enjoy an additional 12 mm. Legroom across both rows increases by 11 mm, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone on board.
Cargo Capacity
The enhanced practicality extends to the luggage compartment. At the front, where a traditional gasoline engine would sit, owners now have access to a 101-liter storage area—ideal for small bags or charging cables. In the rear, folding down the back seats unveils a cavernous 1,290 liters of cargo space, making this EV perfect for road trips and family adventures. Towing capability has also been prioritized, with the new Shooting Brake able to haul up to 1,800 kg (3,968 lbs), while integrated roof rails support loads of up to 75 kg (165 lbs).
Innovative Panoramic Roof and Ambient Lighting
What truly distinguishes the Shooting Brake from its CLA sedan sibling is the attention to detail in design. Both models are nearly identical up to the B-pillar, but the Shooting Brake offers a stunning panoramic glass roof—exclusive to this variant. For the first time in Mercedes-Benz history, the roof integrates ambient lighting, scattering 158 luminous stars across its surface. This feature transforms the cabin atmosphere, elevating luxury and visual drama for passengers.
Electric Powertrain and Performance Specs
Underpinning the new CLA Shooting Brake is Mercedes' advanced EQ Technology—a sophisticated electric drivetrain designed for efficiency, power, and long-range capabilities. The vehicle is equipped with a robust 85 kWh lithium-ion battery and, depending on the chosen model, up to two permanently excited synchronous electric motors. A two-speed transmission on the rear axle ensures responsive acceleration and optimal energy use.
CLA 250+ Shooting Brake
The entry-level CLA 250+ Shooting Brake delivers 268 horsepower, offering a dynamic yet accessible driving experience. Even more remarkable is its WLTP-certified range: an estimated 761 km (473 miles) per charge – setting a new benchmark for electric wagons. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph is achieved in just 6.8 seconds, underscoring the car’s blend of efficiency and performance.
CLA 350 4MATIC Shooting Brake
The top-tier CLA 350 4MATIC features a dual-motor setup providing all-wheel drive capability and a spirited 349 horsepower. This variant utilizes the same advanced battery pack, delivering an impressive range of 730 km (454 miles), satisfying even the most demanding commuters and travelers.
Fast Charging and Energy Recuperation
Both models are equipped with Mercedes’ innovative one-box braking system, which maximizes energy recuperation up to 200 kW. When using a DC fast charger, the CLA 250+ Shooting Brake can replenish up to 310 km (193 miles) of range in just 10 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime during long journeys.
Market Launch, Positioning, and Competition
The all-electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is slated to arrive in European showrooms by March 2026. While details on North American or global release dates have yet to be announced, anticipation is high within the electric car community. The vehicle’s blend of luxury, utility, and electric efficiency puts it in direct competition with high-end EV wagons and crossovers, solidifying Mercedes-Benz’s ambitious push in the electric vehicle sector.
Value and Future Variants
Although pricing for the new Shooting Brake is still under wraps, comparisons can be drawn from the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA available in the U.S., which starts at $44,400 for the base model. Mercedes plans to expand the lineup further, with additional battery-electric versions and even a plug-in hybrid variant (combining a combustion engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and an integrated electric motor) slated for introduction in the near future.
Why the Electric CLA Shooting Brake Stands Out
With its luxurious cabin, stellar driving range, and versatile Shooting Brake body, the all-new electric Mercedes-Benz CLA signals a new era for luxury wagons. Car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike will appreciate its mix of German engineering, advanced electric power, and everyday practicality. The model not only demonstrates Mercedes' commitment to sustainability but also reaffirms its tradition of innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.
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