The Verdict Is In: What Canada's Top Auto Critics Are Saying About the All-New 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA

The automotive press has spoken, and their consensus is clear: the all-new 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology delivers a fundamental shift in electric vehicle capability. Built from the ground up as an electric-first platform, this goes beyond a typical EV conversion—it's what happens when Mercedes-Benz reimagines the compact luxury sedan for the electric age.

Canadian and international automotive journalists have had their first extended drives with the 2026 CLA, and their impressions paint a picture of a vehicle that could redefine expectations for electric luxury cars. From efficiency achievements that surpass the competition to refinement levels that feel decidedly premium, the critical response suggests Mercedes-Benz has delivered something special. The 2026 CLA will be available at Mercedes-Benz Laval starting later in 2025, giving Quebec drivers access to this highly anticipated electric sedan.

Industry-Leading Efficiency Earns Critical Praise

The 2026 CLA's efficiency credentials have impressed automotive journalists across the board. Le Guide de l’Auto highlights the technical foundation: "The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA benefits from newly developed electric motors that are more compact and more efficient." This efficiency translates into real-world advantages that critics have experienced firsthand.

Auto123 provides specific context for the efficiency achievement: "Mercedes gives an average of 13 kWh/100 km for the 250+ EQ, which is excellent." To understand this accomplishment, Driving.ca tested the vehicle extensively: "Tested to an indicated 14.5 kWh on primarily rural and highway routes… the CLA marks an impressive stride in electric motoring."

The efficiency gains stem from Mercedes-Benz's electric-first architecture, inspired by the Vision EQXX concept. As Auto123 notes: "It is the first mass-produced Mercedes-Benz to realise several of the technological advancements prophesied by the Vision EQXX prototype."

Performance That Delivers on Both Capability and Character

Critics have found the 2026 CLA's performance compelling across both available powertrains. Le Guide de l’Auto details the powertrain offerings: "The single-motor CLA 250+ sends 268 horsepower to the rear wheels… the dual-motor CLA 350 4Matic… distributes 349 horsepower between all four wheels."

The Globe and Mail experienced noticeable differences between the two configurations: "On the road, the CLA 350 is more engaging to drive than the 250+. It has more guts, owing to the extra power, and is especially spirited in Sport mode." This performance hierarchy gives buyers clear choices based on their driving priorities.

Driving.ca found the overall driving character refined beyond expectations: "The electric-first 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA… exhibits a more refined drive than expected of the class." This refinement extends to the fundamental driving experience that separates premium vehicles from mainstream alternatives.

Luxury and Technology Integration Impresses Reviewers

The technology and luxury elements have drawn particular attention from automotive critics. The Globe and Mail summarizes the overall package: "The CLA-Class with EQ Technology is stylish, comfortable and ahead of the competition in terms of technology."

According to Ola Källenius, as quoted by Auto123: "According to Ola Källenius, this new CLA is ahead of the competition… in range, charging speed, fuel consumption, comfort and intelligence." This comprehensive approach to electric vehicle development has resonated with reviewers who've experienced the vehicle firsthand.

The interior experience has particularly impressed critics. Driving.ca notes: "Commendably comfortable and impressively efficient, the third-generation CLA feels a properly premium compact." This premium character extends beyond surface impressions to fundamental engineering choices.

Refined Road Manners Set New Class Standards

The 2026 CLA's dynamic behavior has earned consistent praise from automotive journalists. Auto123 highlights the suspension technology: "The independent suspension, inspired by M-B's more upscale classes, uses multiple support arms at both ends. The result is a composed, controlled temperament."

Driving.ca found the refinement levels particularly notable: "On the road, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA is quiet even for an EV… neither rural nor urban roads… elicited much of the tire noise or droning typically expected." This quietness contributes to the premium character that reviewers have consistently noted.

The Globe and Mail confirms these observations: "The ride and handling are smooth with no trace of wind or road noise in the cabin." Such refinement typically requires significant engineering investment and attention to detail.

At a Glance: 2026 CLA Critic Highlights

Environmental Achievement Gains Recognition

Beyond performance and luxury, critics have noted the 2026 CLA's environmental credentials. The Globe and Mail provides specific context: "Over all, the new CLA has reduced its carbon footprint by 40 per cent over the entire value chain compared to its gas-powered predecessor."

This environmental achievement features more than just zero-emission driving. It encompasses the entire production and lifecycle impact, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz's comprehensive approach to sustainability that extends well beyond the vehicle's operation.

Critical Validation for Electric Vehicle Excellence

The automotive press has delivered a clear verdict: the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology successfully combines efficiency, performance, luxury, and environmental responsibility in a package that feels genuinely premium. TopSpeed summarizes the overall achievement: "With industry-competitive range and charging performance, the all-electric Mercedes CLA makes a good first impression."

For Quebec drivers considering their transition to electric mobility, the critical consensus suggests the 2026 CLA offers genuine advantages over both conventional luxury compacts and other electric alternatives. The combination of Mercedes-Benz engineering, electric-first architecture, and premium refinement has created what Driving.ca describes as something that "feels curiously luxurious in exactly the way Mercedes has sought to position itself."

Experience the 2026 CLA with EQ Technology at Mercedes-Benz Laval when it arrives later in 2025. Contact our sales team to learn more about how this critic-acclaimed electric sedan can enhance your driving experience while supporting Quebec's sustainable transportation future.