The next-gen GLC will challenge rivals like the BMW iX3 in the electric SUV segment.
Sitting at the top of the range will be the GLC AMG EV pushing out over 500 horses.
It will ride on Mercedes’ MB.EA platform, supporting 800-volt charging for faster recharges.
Mercedes-Benz previewed the new all-electric GLC earlier this month, and now, our spy photographers have snapped a prototype of the AMG version during testing. While it’s still wrapped in that signature camo, there are some key visual differences that set this hotter GLC apart, and some intriguing updates under the skin.
This prototype is covered head-to-toe in white and black camouflage, but there are some notable differences between this AMG GLC and the regular model. The hood looks a little more muscular, and a different set of headlights, although these appear to be temporary units. The lights of the finished product should be very similar, or identical, to the standard GLC.
Mercedes-AMG has also fitted the electric SUV with distinctive new wheels, making the whole thing look a little meaner. Much of the rear end has been covered in snow, but there’s a large lip spoiler at the rear – but it’s clearly temporary, and won’t look like this on the finished model.
This all-new Mercedes GLC will replace the EQC and is one of the 17 new electric vehicles that Mercedes has promised to deliver in the coming years. When it hits the market, the GLC will square off with the BMW iX3, which itself is undergoing a complete overhaul for its next generation.
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Platform and Charging Power
All new GLC models will ride on Mercedes’ MB.EA platform, a modular electric architecture that can handle 800-volt charging, with a max charge rate of up to 320 kW. This means quicker charging times and more efficiency across the board.
Unlike the outgoing EQC, which never got a full-fledged AMG version, the upcoming GLC EV AMG will bring the power in spades. The EQC’s AMG Line model topped out at 402 hp, but this new AMG variant will likely push over 500 hp, possibly even cresting the 600 hp mark with a pair of potent electric motors.
Xiaomi is targeting 350,000 EV sales in China, outpacing major German automakers.
With attractive designs and generous equipment, the SU7 and YU7 have proved popular.
The company announced plans to sell its vehicles globally within the next few years.
Not long ago, premium German cars were seen as the epitome of luxury in China. For brands like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, China was consistently their largest market, with sales surpassing those in any other country. However, as new homegrown brands have emerged, local preferences are beginning to shift toward Chinese companies and their offerings. Xiaomi is a perfect example of this shift.
Xiaomi, primarily known for being one China’s largest makers of electronics and consumer goods, producing everything from vacuum cleaners to computer monitors, fridges, suitcases, and smartphones. Then, the brand’s boss decided he wanted to build an electric vehicle. Unlike the billionaire founder of Dyson, who famously failed to launch an EV, Xiaomi has succeeded where others couldn’t, with its first electric vehicle, the SU7.
Customer deliveries of the SU7 started less than a year ago, and the company already has its sights set on the German establishment. The company aims to sell 350,000 EVs in China this year, thanks to the SU7 and the upcoming release of its Tesla Model Y competitor, the YU7. If Xiaomi can hit this target, it would surpass the combined EV sales of Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche in China from last year, Handelsblatt reports.
Expanding Beyond China
It’s not just at home in China, where Xiaomi wants to grow its EV business. Earlier this month, the company’s president William Lu, revealed plans to expand into more markets. While he didn’t specify exact dates, he assured that Xiaomi would enter new regions “within the next few years.”
The arrival of the YU7 will mark a pivotal moment for the company. SUVs continue to dominate global sales, and there’s a strong chance the YU7 will outperform the SU7. Deliveries are set to begin in June or July, and the industry will be watching closely to see if Xiaomi can continue its rise.
Mercedes’ CTO confirmed previous reports that the A-Class won’t see another generation.
The brand’ compact lineup will be reduced to four models: CLA, GLA, GLB, and the g-Class.
The baby G will use a standalone platform, as the MMA would compromise its off-road capabilities.
Mercedes has just launched the third generation of the CLA, offering a choice between EV and hybrid powertrains. However, there’s some bad news for fans of the A-Class: the brand’s Chief Technology Officer, Markus Schafer, confirmed that the sleek compact sedan won’t be followed by a new A-Class.
Rumors about the death of the A-Class after the end of the current generation’s lifecycle have been circulating since 2022, and now we have official confirmation. During the presentation of the new CLA, Schafer revealed that Mercedes won’t develop a successor to their sole hatchback offering and explained why.
The Future of Mercedes’ Compact Models
“We need models that work all over the world, including China and the USA. I know the hatchback is the favorite bodystyle in Europe, but it was not part of the plans, and we had to make choices—even difficult ones,” he said. “Reducing complexity is a key task for us. For this reason, bringing the compact family from seven to four models was necessary in this segment.”
Aside from the new CLA in sedan and shooting brake flavors, Mercedes’ compact lineup will now include new generations of the GLA and GLB SUVs, plus a baby G-Class off-roader.
Unfortunately, that also means some models won’t make it past the current generation, including the Class hatchback, A-Class sedan, and B-Class minivan. Furthermore, the fully electric EQA and EQB SUVs are expected to be integrated into the new GLA and GLB lineups, dropping the EQ moniker and adopting a more uniform design.
The End of an Era for the A-Class
Last year it was reported that the current A-Class will stick around until 2026 before bowing out of production. The four generations of the entry-level Mercedes were introduced in 1997, 2004, 2012, and 2018 respectively. The first two competed in the supermini segment with a tall body and minivan proportions, while the third and fourth-gen models adopted a more conventional hatchback bodystyle with a larger footprint.
The A-Class was discontinued from US and Canada after the end of 2022, but remains on sale in other markets including Europe, after benefiting from a mid-lifecycle update. The upcoming end of the model also marks the conclusion of the A45 AMG hot hatch.
A Different Platform for the g-Class
The new CLA is built on the MMA architecture, which will also underpin the upcoming GLA and GLB SUVs. However, the baby G-Class will take a different route in order to maintain its rugged, off-road-ready character. Speaking to Quattroruote, Schafer confirmed that the baby G-Class will not share the same platform: “The baby G will not be born on the MMA, because if we had used the new platform, we would not have been able to guarantee it the off-road capabilities that a G-Class must have.”
“We use the available modules to the maximum of the sharing possibilities, from powertrains to software, but for the baby G we will make a specific base – the MMA would not allow us to mount the wheels of the diameter necessary for a model of this kind, nor to give it the necessary ground clearance”.
Mercedes has also confirmed that the baby G-Class will adopt a lowercase “g” for its name. A teaser from February 2025 hints that the model will have a compact footprint, generous ground clearance, and a boxy shape reminiscent of the original short-wheelbase G-Wagen from 1979.
The redesigned Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 could be a high-performance EV.
Report suggests it could have a tri-motor powertrain with more than 500 hp.
The four-door coupe is slated to have active aerodynamics and a “V8 Mode.”
Mercedes unveiled the redesigned CLA yesterday and new details are starting to emerge about the upcoming AMG variants. In particular, the CLA 45 could return as an electric vehicle packing more than 500 ponies.
While officials were understandably tight-lipped about the upcoming model, Mercedes Chief Technical Officer, Markus Schäfer, told Autocar that they have “established a second pillar when it comes to powertrains – keyword Yasa.” That’s a not so subtle reference to axial flux motors developed by their Yasa subsidiary.
Axial flux motors were expected to be used in high-end models, such as the AMG SUV, but they won’t be limited to the crème de la crème. Quite the opposite as Schäfer said they’ll be “available to us across all model lines.”
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Additional details are limited, but the publication suggested the CLA 45 EV could have a tri-motor powertrain with “advanced torque-vectoring properties.” Insiders have also indicated the car could have more than 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS), which would be a significant increase over the current model’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 416 hp (310 kW / 422 PS). This enables the CLA 45 S to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in four seconds flat.
While the standard model has an 85 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the AMG version will reportedly use an “oil-cooled battery that features unique cylindrical cells and chemistry for greater energy density.” We can also expect an active rear wing as well as a so-called “V8 Mode,” which could replicate the sound of a roaring V8.
Mercedes has introduced the third-gen CLA, which will offer hybrid and electric powertrains.
The electric versions offer up to 349 hp as well as WLTP ranges between 418 and 492 miles.
The exterior design is evolutionary, but the cabin goes for a minimalist aesthetic heavy on screens.
The Mercedes CLA helped pioneer the affordable four-door coupe and now the model is entering its third-generation. While the design isn’t too much of a departure, this isn’t your father’s CLA.
That’s immediately apparent as the new electric variants have a ‘radiant face panel’ that replaces the traditional single bar grille. It features an illuminated star emblem as well as 142 individually lit mini stars.
Buyers will also find sweptback headlights that are connected by a thin illuminated strip. LED headlights are standard, but the optional Multibeam LED headlights are notable for having a daytime running light signature in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star.
While the front end will likely prove divisive, the rest of the car is more familiar. It features streamlined bodywork, available flush-mounted door handles, and a class-leading drag coefficient starting at 0.21.
Elsewhere, designers installed starry taillights and aerodynamically optimized wheels ranging in sizes from 17- to 19-inches. Customers will also find a host of options including AMG Line, AMG Line Plus, and Night packages.
As with most new vehicles, the Mercedes CLA has grown in size. The model now measures 185.9 inches (4,722 mm) long, which is an increase of 1.6 inches (41 mm). Wheelbase is up 2.4 inches (61 mm) to 109.8 inches (2,789 mm) and this provides a tad more front legroom. However, the already tight rear seat sees legroom decline to 33.6 inches (853 mm).
A Soulless Interior Focused On Screens And AI
Remember how cool and revolutionary the interior of the original Mercedes CLS was? Its elegant mix of flowing wood trim and stylish leather was unforgettable.
Compare that to the new CLA and it looks like a soulless transportation pod. Mercedes went for a minimalist design and it’s not terribly remarkable other than the available MBUX Superscreen, which consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a 14-inch front passenger display. Customers who don’t pony up the extra dough will be treated to a “trim element with a star pattern graphic” to remind them of their cheapness.
We’ll learn full equipment details closer to launch, but Mercedes said all models will come equipped with a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, heated power fronts seats, a panoramic fixed glass roof, and a single-zone climate control system. Customers will also find brushed aluminum, open-pore wood, or “Gold Anthracite anodized look” trim.
While legroom is a mixed bag, Mercedes noted the CLA EV has a frunk that holds 2.5 cubic feet (71 liters) of cargo. That’s on top of the trunk’s 14.3 cubic feet (405 liters) of luggage space.
Getting back to screens, the CLA runs the all-new Mercedes-Benz Operating System. It’s essentially the fourth-generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system and uses artificial intelligence from both Microsoft and Google.
Mercedes repeatedly hammered the AI point home and noted customers will find a new MBUX Virtual Assistant that “transforms the relationship between vehicle and driver” thanks to generative AI. This assistant is billed as a “living avatar” that takes the form of a Mercedes star.
Speaking of AI, the system uses ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing as well as Google Gemini. The latter focuses on navigation-related questions and this is because the CLA’s “navigation experience is based on Google Maps.”
Two Electric Powertrains At Launch, Hybrids To Follow
At launch, there will be two electric variants known as the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology. While both have terrible names, the CLA 250+ has a rear-mounted motor developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 6.6 seconds, before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h). Customers can also expect a WLTP range of 431-492 miles (694-792 km).
The CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology is positioned as a performance variant and it has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph and traction, 60 mph (96 km/h) comes in 4.8 seconds. While the top speed remains unchanged, the range drops to 418-479 miles (672-771 km).
Both have an 85 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an 800-volt electric architecture that allows for a DC fast charging capability of up to 320 kW. This means a ten minute charge can provide up to 202 miles (325 km) of range.
The EVs will be followed by a hybrid variant as Mercedes customers aren’t ready to go fully electric. The automaker didn’t say much about it, but confirmed there will be two outputs as well as front- and all-wheel drive. The models will have a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 1.3 kWh battery, 48-volt technology, and an electric motor that is integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The new-gen 2026 Mercedes CLA has been spied wearing less camouflage than ever before.
The four-door coupe adopts a streamlined design, but sports an awkward greenhouse.
It will be offered with hybrid and electric powertrains as well as front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive.
Update 3/11: Mercedes has just confirmed that the new CLA will make its world premiere this Thursday, March 13, at 7 PM CET (2 PM EST). Along with the announcement, the automaker dropped a few fresh teasers of the compact model, with a strong focus on the star-shaped lights. This theme seems to be a major design element for the CLA, as the stars appear not only in the head and tail lamps but also across the entire front grille, illuminated by dozens of small star-shaped lights.
The redesigned Mercedes CLA has been a familiar sight for the past two years, but the model is finally entering the homestretch. It’s now celebrating by stripping down and showing some skin. While the front and rear ends are heavily camouflaged, the latest prototype has an exposed body. It’s immediately familiar, but incorporates some cues from the EQE and EQS.
The changes are readily apparent as we can see streamlined bodywork as well as flush-mounted door handles. The greenhouse has also been completely revamped and it’s an awkward mess as the third quarter glass extends into the rear door. As a result, there’s mismatched lines and an unappealing mix of shapes.
At the ends, there are star-infused lighting units which have become a hallmark of the modern Mercedes. They’re joined by an evolutionary single bar grille and new bumpers.
The redesigned CLA will debut next year and ride on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture. The company has revealed quite a bit in recent months and has previously confirmed an electric variant with a rear-mounted motor producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS).
Customers can also opt for a 4Matic variant, which adds a 107 hp (80 kW / 109 PS) motor up front. It only has a ‘boost’ capability as the motor engages when extra power or traction is needed.
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We’ll learn more about the electric powertrain closer to launch, but Mercedes has already confirmed the CLA has an 800-volt electrical architecture as well as a DC fast charging capability of up to 320 kW. The company also has plans to offer an optional 85 kWh silicon oxide battery.
If you’re not sold on the electric revolution, you can look forward to a new family of four-cylinder petrol engines. Americans will get a hybridized powertrain that consists of a 1.5-liter engine, a small battery, and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor. The engine produces 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS), while the motor contributes an additional 27 hp (20 kW / 27 PS). Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive will be optional.
Alongside the sedan, Mercedes is also developing the CLA Shooting Brake, the swoopy station wagon variant of the series. It’s set to debut later this year, though, like the current model, it’s unlikely to make its way to the US.
Mercedes-AMG’s electric SUV draws design inspiration from the Vision AMG concept.
Built on the AMG-EA platform, it will offer up to 1,000 hp from three axial-flux motors.
Expected to debut in 2026, it will directly compete with the upcoming Porsche K1.
Last month, Mercedes-AMG previewed the all-electric super SUV it’s currently working on. This new model is being developed alongside AMG’s first in-house electric sedan, and much like that car, is bound to court controversy. After all, many enthusiasts are accustomed to AMG models with thumping V8 engines, and this is partly why the four-cylinder hybrid C 63 has been a flop. However, the German brand believes electric is the future, and it’s cooking up something rather special.
Prototypes spotted by our spy photographers, along with official images released by Mercedes, were heavily covered in body cladding and camouflage, obscuring most of the design details. However, there’s a chance the EV, which is rumored to receive the GT SUV moniker, will have many similarities to its sedan counterpart that’s tipped to draw inspiration from the 2022 Mercedes Vision AMG Concept.
With this in mind, artist Nikita Chuyko created illustrations for Kolesa based on the test mules and recent renderings of AMG’s Taycan fighter, offering a preview of what the new SUV might look like. If it ends up resembling these images, it will certainly stand out in the Mercedes lineup, though we’re not entirely convinced it’ll be for all the right reasons.
The front of the SUV showcased here is dominated by a faux grille, which is to be expected in an EV, while the headlights are connected by a light bar. They also sport the Three-Pointed Star DRLs coming to a slew of new Mercedes models.
For as interesting as the front of this rendering is, the rear end is even more so. Taking cues from the Vision AMG Concept’s styling, it sports a wraparound LED taillight design, which brings to mind the Kia EV6 – an interesting choice, though one that works better on the Mercedes.
Power, Performance, and Ambition
Moving away from the design, the GT SUV is expected to mirror the size of the 2022 Vision AMG concept, stretching about 5.1 meters (200 inches) in length, with a wheelbase pushing over 3 meters (118 inches). That’s a bigger footprint than the gas-guzzling AMG GLE 63, putting it in the same league as the fully electric EQS SUV flagship.
Under the skin, the new AMG electric SUV will be built on the brand’s proprietary AMG.EA platform, featuring an 800-volt electrical system for faster charging and greater efficiency. It will also sport newly developed axial-flux electric motors from the British company Yasa, potentially delivering more than 1,000 hp. That kind of power will make it a serious contender against other electric crossovers like the Lotus Eletre R, which puts out 905 hp.
A release date hasn’t been announced yet, however it’s likely that the production version will debut in 2026, with sales kicking off later that year or early 2027, depending on the market, just ahead of its Porsche K1 rival. In theory, it’s a serious competitor for any luxury electric crossover, but its commercial success depends largely not just on its tech or power figures, but its design as well.
Our spy photographers caught the first prototype of the next-gen CLA Shooting Brake.
The model follows the example of its predecessors, adopting a sleek wagon silhouette.
As with the regular CLA sedan, it is expected to offer EV and hybrid powertrain options.
Mercedes is getting ready to unveil the all-new CLA in electric and ICE flavors. While the company has decided to cut down the number of its compact models, the fastback sedan will soon be joined by a Shooting Brake version, with the first camouflaged prototype making its spy debut in Europe.
Back in September 2023, Mercedes announced that its compact lineup would include the successors of the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB, but not those of the A-Class and B-Class models. The CLA Shooting Brake is probably the most interesting in terms of styling, as it will keep combining the sleek design of the sedan with the practicality of a wagon body for a third generation.
The pictured prototype has camouflage only on the front and rear ends. The front section will be shared with the regular CLA, including the low-mounted grille and the aggressive headlights with star-shaped LEDs. The same applies to the flush door handles on the profile, although the greenhouse and the roofline have been redesigned.
In this particular prototype, Mercedes has applied aluminum trim around the windows and on the slim roof rails, with the latter being another means of differentiation from the four-door version. Of course, the highlight of the Shooting Brake is the design of the rear end. The new generation adopts new LED taillights with oval-shaped graphics and an even smaller rear window.
Inside, the new CLA family will benefit from a digital cockpit running the latest MB.OS software with AI technology. The Shooting Brake is expected to offer a larger boot, together with a few more inches of headroom compared to the fastback sedan.
Hybrid And EV Options
Mercedes’ entire compact lineup will ride on the MMA architecture, which is compatible with both ICE and EV powertrains. Luckily, Mercedes has already detailed the powertrains of the CLA, giving us a good idea of what to expect from the CLA Shooting Brake
The zero-emission CLA will offer the option between a rear electric motor with 268 hp (200 kW), or an all-wheel-drive version adding a 107 hp (80 kW) motor at the front. Energy will be stored in battery packs with a capacity of 58 kWh or 85 kWh, allowing a claimed range of up to 750 km (466 miles). Given that the Shooting Brake has an aerodynamic body, it will likely achieve something close to this number.
The hybrid lineup will include a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine in 134 hp (136 PS), 161 hp (163 PS), and 188 hp (190 PS) versions, assisted by a 27 hp (20 kW) electric motor integrated within an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The hybrid CLA is also expected to be offered with optional all-wheel drive, or 4Matic in Mercedes Land.
According to our sources, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is expected to be unveiled by the end of the year. The market launch of the model is scheduled for early 2026. In total, Mercedes has pledged to unveil 36 new models by 2027.
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