The all-electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake, as you’d know by reading the title, isn’t another electric SUV. It combines the streamlined shape of the CLA sedan with additional space and versatility behind the rear seat.
Built on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), the electric long-roof model will reach the first customers in UK and Europe by March 2026, and will also come in hybrid later this year.
Before its dealership launch, we received the opportunity to thoroughly explore the electric estate, and here’s what we gathered.
Design
Up to the B-pillar, the CLA Shooting Brake shares its design with the CLA sedan, featuring a shark-nose profile and an illuminated panel with 142 LED stars. The full-width light strip connects to optional Multibeam LED headlights.
At the rear, the star-shaped taillamps are joined by a light bar, while the sloping roofline and extended glass area give it a different silhouette compared to the sedan.
Exterior dimensions now measure 4,723 mm (186.0 in) long, 1,855 mm (73.0 in) wide, and 1,469 mm (57.8 in) high, with a 2,790 mm (109.8 in) wheelbase, creating more headroom and improved access to the second row compared to its predecessor.
Interior
Inside, the CLA Shooting Brake borrows pretty much everything from the sedan. The highlight here is the optional MBUX Superscreen, which stretches across the dashboard with up to three displays.
It features a 10.25-inch driver screen, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and an optional 14-inch passenger display. Each runs real-time graphics through the Unity Game Engine and supports cloud gaming via Boosteroid, along with video apps like Disney+ and RIDEVU. The car runs the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) with cloud connectivity and over-the-air updates for both software and driving functions.
The dashboard and door trims feature a floating effect thanks to integrated lighting. Upholstery options include ARTICO artificial leather, leather, and combinations of both in shades like ivory beige and beech brown.
The panoramic roof is another highlight. It extends seamlessly from the windshield to the rear with the “illuminated starry sky” featuring 158 embedded LEDs. Occupants can switch the glass between transparent and opaque modes, while the ambient lighting synchronizes with the roof’s color.
Experience in the CLA Shooting Brake
The CLA Shooting Brake EV uses frameless front doors, and entry requires attention to leg clearance, as taller occupants who are 6-feet or taller may brush their thighs against the steering wheel while settling in.
The driving position sits low under a sloping roofline. The sport seats provide strong lumbar support and noticeable side bolstering, under-thigh support is adequate, and the steering wheel offers a sporty shape and firm grip.
Physical buttons remain for volume, mute, voice command, and drive-mode selection. The layout reduces standalone keys and controls for common functions, increasing reliance on the touchscreen for adjustments.
Headroom in the front is adequate even for a six-footer, and a comfortable driving position is achievable despite the low-slung exterior proportions.
Rear entry is slightly better than the fastback-style roof of the CLA sedan, but it requires a bit of ducking if you are a six-footer. Once seated, taller occupants will observe a knee-up posture due to the battery pack under the floor.
Headroom in the rear is better than in the sedan and feels adequate for a six-footer. The knee room also feels sufficient, but the seating position reduces comfort. Under-thigh support is limited, back support is acceptable, and the rear headrests are adjustable. A fold-down center armrest includes cupholders and a phone rest, making it suitable for short trips for tall adults.
Specifications
Motors
Two electric versions will debut initially in the UK. The CLA 250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology delivers 272 hp and 335 Nm (247 lb-ft) of torque, while the CLA 350 4MATIC Shooting Brake outputs 354 hp and 515 Nm (380 lb-ft). Both feature an 85 kWh lithium-ion battery and an 800-volt system.
Range & Acceleration
Range is estimated at up to 469 miles WLTP for the CLA 250+, or 451 miles for the all-wheel-drive CLA 350 4MATIC. The base version accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.8 seconds, while the dual-motor model completes it in 5.0 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h (130 mph).
Charging
The system supports DC fast charging up to 320 kW, adding 310 km (193 mi) of range in 10 minutes. AC charging at home is possible in the UK at 11 kW (22 kW optional in some markets). Mercedes says the CLA’s two-speed gearbox on the rear axle ensures both strong low-speed response and high-speed efficiency, while regenerative braking can recover up to 200 kW of energy.
Space & Utility
In Europe, the CLA Shooting Brake offers 455 liters (16.1 cu ft) of cargo space, expandable to 1,290 liters (45.6 cu ft) with the 40:20:40 split-fold rear seats down.
An additional 101-liter (3.6 cu ft) frunk sits under the hood for charging cables or small luggage. The electric tailgate offers optional hands-free access, making loading simpler. Roof rails can carry 75 kg (165 lb), and the vehicle can tow up to 1,800 kg (3,968 lb) when equipped with all-wheel drive.
Price & Release Date
It would be surprising if Mercedes chose to offer the CLA Shooting Brake in the U.S., given the low demand for this body style and the uncertain EV market following the removal of the USD 7,500 federal tax credit.
Also Read: First Look Review: U.S.-bound next-gen Mercedes GLB Electric is a total overhaul
In the UK, where the car reaches customers by March 2026, prices (OTR) start at GBP 47,750 (approximately USD 64,000).
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
