What is the range of the 2026 European Car of the Year, the Mercedes CLA?

The electric Mercedes CLA has a range of up to 492 miles on a single charge.

Who votes for the European Car of the Year award?

The award is decided by votes from 59 independent motoring journalists across 23 European nations.

Has Mercedes-Benz won European Car of the Year before?

Yes, this is the first time Mercedes-Benz has won since the 1974 450SE S-Class.

Home / Technology / Electric Mercedes CLA Claims Top Auto Award

Electric Mercedes CLA Claims Top Auto Award

13 Jan

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Summary

Mercedes CLA electric vehicle won European Car of the Year 2026.
The EV boasts a range of nearly 500 miles on a single charge.
This is the third consecutive year an electric vehicle has won.

Electric Mercedes CLA Claims Top Auto Award

The new electric Mercedes CLA has secured the prestigious European Car of the Year 2026 award, a significant win for the German automaker. This family EV, with its impressive 492-mile range, triumphed over six other finalists. The award was announced at the Brussels Motor Show and is decided by 59 independent motoring journalists from 23 European nations.

This marks Mercedes-Benz's first victory in over 50 years, with the last being the 1974 450SE S-Class. Despite the honor, the article notes that the European Car of the Year title has historically been a "poisoned chalice" for some winners, citing past models like the NSU Ro 80 and Chrysler Horizon which did not achieve sales success.

The Mercedes CLA features the new MB.OS operating system with AI enhancements and integrates Google and Microsoft for advanced user experience. Initial orders for the CLA have reportedly exceeded expectations, with Mercedes-Benz Group AG chairman Ola Källenius calling it a "game-changer" that delivers "outstanding efficiency and effortless intelligence."