Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with its next generation of compact vehicles, and recent spy shots have given us a glimpse at the upcoming Cla Mercedes Shooting Brake. This stylish wagon variant of the CLA-Class is set to join the lineup, offering a more practical yet equally sleek alternative to the sedan. Based on the new Modular Mercedes Architecture (MMA) platform, the 2026 CLA Mercedes Shooting Brake promises both hybrid and fully electric powertrains, signaling Mercedes’ commitment to electrification in even its entry-level models.
The prototype spotted testing showcases a design evolution from the current CLA generation, while still retaining the distinctive Shooting Brake silhouette. Up to the B-pillar, the wagon mirrors the sedan, expected to debut alongside it as a 2026 model. However, from there back, the roofline extends gracefully, culminating in a rear hatch that appears to adopt a subtly rounded form. This design choice hints at a departure from the sharper lines of its predecessor, potentially aiming for a more refined and aerodynamically efficient profile.
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Shooting Brake spy shots – Photo via Baldauf
Drawing heavily from the Concept CLA-Class unveiled in 2023, the production model is anticipated to incorporate several key design elements. Expect to see Mercedes star logo patterns integrated into the head and taillights, a signature detail previewed in the concept. Inside, the dashboard is likely to feature a wide, single-panel display encompassing both the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system, complemented by circular air vents for a modern and cohesive interior aesthetic.
Underneath the stylish exterior, the 2026 CLA Mercedes Shooting Brake will ride on Mercedes-Benz’s all-new MMA platform. This architecture is specifically engineered for the brand’s entry-level range and is designed to accommodate both internal combustion engines and electric powertrains. For the electric versions, buyers can anticipate both single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations. The rear motor is expected to deliver a robust 268 horsepower, while the optional front motor adds 107 horsepower, engaging when extra power or traction is needed. Enthusiasts can also look forward to higher-performance AMG-tuned variants in the future, promising exhilarating driving dynamics.
The electric CLA Shooting Brake models will benefit from an advanced 800-volt electrical system, enabling rapid DC fast charging. Mercedes has suggested that this system will be capable of adding around 100 miles of driving range in under 15 minutes, significantly reducing charging times and enhancing usability. Battery specifications are still under wraps, but one anticipated option is an 85 kWh battery pack, offering a competitive usable capacity for its segment.
For those preferring hybrid technology, the 2026 CLA Mercedes Shooting Brake will offer a newly developed 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 27-horsepower electric motor integrated with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This hybrid system is projected to deliver a combined output of 187 horsepower. A 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, positioned under the driver’s seat, will provide electric assist and enhance fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive will be standard for the hybrid models, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
While the current CLA Shooting Brake generation was not available in the United States, it remains uncertain if this will change with the new model. The CLA-Class sedan and Shooting Brake represent two of the four core models in Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation compact family based on the MMA platform. The remaining two are the successors to the GLA-Class and GLB-Class crossovers, with a prototype of the electric GLB-Class already undergoing testing, indicating a comprehensive refresh of Mercedes’ compact vehicle lineup is on the horizon.
