2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA is the limited-production CLA 45 S Final Edition, which marks the end of the second-generation gasoline model. The regular CLA 35 and the newly named CLA 45 S otherwise carry over without major updates.
About the 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
2nd generation (2020-2026), final U.S. model year for the gasoline-powered AMG CLA Coupe.
The AMG CLA is Mercedes-AMG’s compact four-door performance coupe, combining a low, sweeping roofline with everyday seating for five and serious turbocharged power. Its main appeal is the blend of small-car agility, standard all-wheel drive, quick dual-clutch shifting, a digital cabin, and luxury comfort hardware. The CLA 35 emphasizes fast daily driving, while the CLA 45 S adds more specialized performance capability.
The CLA 35 is the more everyday-focused version, pairing a 302-hp turbo four-cylinder with all-wheel drive, sport suspension, dual 10.25-inch displays, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CLA 45 S raises output to 416 hp and adds more specialized performance hardware, including RACE and DRIFT modes plus a built-in track-data recorder.
What changed, by category
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter w/Hybrid Assist | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch | Automatic, 8-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 416 hp | |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 11.6 cu-ft | 11.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.9 in | 33.9 in |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA?
The main change is the limited-production CLA 45 S Final Edition, created to mark the end of the second-generation gasoline AMG CLA. The CLA 45 also continues under the CLA 45 S name, while the regular CLA 35 and CLA 45 S receive no major mechanical, safety, technology, styling, or structural updates.
Is the 2026 AMG CLA the final gasoline model year?
Yes. The 2026 model year is the final U.S. year for the second-generation gasoline-powered AMG CLA Coupe, and the limited-production CLA 45 S Final Edition marks the occasion.
Did the regular 2026 CLA 35 or CLA 45 S receive mechanical changes?
No. The regular 2026 CLA 35 and CLA 45 S carry over without powertrain, chassis, suspension, or body-structure changes.
Is Final Edition equipment standard on every 2026 CLA 45 S?
No. The Final Edition has its own appearance equipment, which is not standard on the regular 2026 CLA 45 S.
How do the 2026 CLA 35 and CLA 45 S differ?
The CLA 35 is the less extreme version, with a 302-hp turbo four-cylinder, all-wheel drive, and daily-use luxury features. The CLA 45 S has a 416-hp handcrafted turbo four-cylinder, performance-focused all-wheel drive, RACE and DRIFT modes, stronger braking hardware, and a track-data recorder.