Mercedes-Benz has shed more light on the technical make-up of the 2026 CLA 220 hybrid, offering a clearer picture of how the new sedan is put together as it edges closer to production. The latest information pulls together previously revealed details and confirms that the hybrid powertrain, including the jointly developed engine with Geely, will be built in China, marking another milestone in the partnership between the two automotive groups.
At the heart of the CLA 220 sits the M252 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, developed under Mercedes-Benz’s Family of Modular Engines programme. While Mercedes-Benz led the engine’s architecture and design philosophy, Geely played a key role in engineering development and will handle production duties.
The engine uses Miller-cycle combustion and features an exhaust manifold integrated directly into the cylinder head, a setup intended to improve turbo response, speed up catalyst warm-up and support lean-burn operation without sacrificing performance. On its own, the petrol unit produces 188hp and works in tandem with an electric motor as part of the hybrid system.
That hybrid setup is based around a 48-volt electrical architecture, with a 30hp electric motor delivering 200 Nm of torque. The motor is integrated into the 8F-eDCT dual-clutch transmission and draws power from a compact 1.3 kWh battery. This configuration allows the CLA 220 to drive on electric power alone when demand stays below 27 horsepower, while coasting is possible at speeds of up to 97 km/h. Regenerative braking operates across all eight gears and can recover energy at rates of up to 25 kW, helping to boost overall efficiency.
When working together, the petrol engine and electric motor deliver a combined output of 208hp and 380 Nm of torque. With a kerb weight of around 1,630 kg, the CLA 220 completes the 0–100km/h sprint in about 7.1 seconds, while top speed is electronically capped at 210 km/h. Mercedes-Benz has also paid attention to refinement, fitting a dual-layer partition and extending sound insulation to the A-pillars and floor to reduce noise entering the cabin.
Visually, the 2026 CLA 220 continues the design direction seen on the brand’s latest electric models. The front features a star-pattern grille with chrome detailing, paired with illuminated elements that visually link the headlights and tail-lights. Both standard and optional headlamp units use continuous light strips, while practicality is maintained with a boot offering 405 litres of luggage space.
Inside, the CLA 220 adopts Mercedes-Benz’s fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system, running on the new MB.OS software platform. Artificial intelligence functions powered by Google and Microsoft are integrated into the system, enhancing voice control and navigation features. Buyers can opt for the MBUX Superscreen setup, which combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, a 14-inch central touchscreen and a 14-inch passenger-side screen, with Google Maps providing customised route guidance.
With its mild-hybrid system focused on efficiency, smooth power delivery and energy recovery, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA 220 represents the next step in the brand’s compact sedan line-up. Built through the Mercedes-Benz and Geely collaboration in China, the model underlines how the partnership is shaping future hybrid offerings for global markets.
