The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2026, previously rumored to be discontinued, has been spotted undergoing road tests, confirming its development as a compact family car with hybrid and electric powertrain options.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is expected to arrive in 2026 and will likely be the second model to use the Modular Mercedes Architecture (MMA) platform, following the CLA Coupe. Recent spy shots have shown a reduced camouflage shield, suggesting that development has progressed considerably.
2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Tech Targets Nürburgring Compact Record
Spotted hammering laps around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology is shaping up to be a serious performance EV. Caught on camera with worn-down Michelin tires from intense testing, this prototype signals AMG’s commitment to electric speed—even in the compact segment.
Aggressive AMG Styling
Compared to the regular CLA Shooting Brake, the AMG version flaunts:
- A reworked front bumper and grille, likely adopting the Panamericana grille design seen on the AMG EQS and EQE
- Flared wheel arches and a redesigned rear apron for a muscular stance
- A dual-spoiler setup: a high-mounted active spoiler paired with a fixed roof spoiler featuring the integrated third brake light
- AMG-style headlights and taillights, though the signature “starry” motif is omitted at the rear
Nürburgring Ambitions: Chasing the BMW M2 CS
Why all the aggressive testing? AMG wants this electric CLA to beat the Nürburgring lap record for compact cars, currently held by the BMW M2 CS with a blistering 7:25.5. That time is a full 8 seconds quicker than the 2025 Audi RS 3 Sedan.
Despite its likely higher curb weight, the AMG CLA EV has a few key weapons:
- Instant torque from electric motors
- Precise torque vectoring for better cornering
- A rumored two-speed rear transmission to aid both acceleration and high-speed efficiency
Powertrain Expectations: Over 500 HP?
While the CLA 45 S Final Edition makes 416 hp and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) from a 2.0-liter turbo-four, the electric successor could eclipse 550 hp, according to multiple reports. Whether that’s metric or mechanical horsepower remains unclear.
This figure fits within AMG’s recent electric output range:
- AMG EQE: 617 hp standard, up to 677 hp with RACE START
- The upcoming electric C-Class AMG is expected to slot just below that
With AMG EQ styling cues, serious performance tuning, and a mission to dominate the Nordschleife, the 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology could become the fastest compact EV on the planet—and a true rival to today’s most extreme internal combustion hot hatches.