2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake UK Version X118
By Lorenzo Bianchi July 21, 2026
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake UK Version X118 is the brand's first fully electric Shooting Brake, offering up to 761 km of WLTP range.
A new panoramic roof with an illuminated star pattern and switchable transparency becomes a standout interior feature.
Increased passenger space, a 101 litre frunk, and up to 1,800 kg towing capacity improve everyday practicality.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake UK Version X118 brings the Shooting Brake formula into the electric era for the first time. It follows the recently introduced CLA Saloon but shifts the focus toward buyers who need extra cargo space without moving into SUV territory. The familiar coupe inspired profile remains, although the body now delivers more room for passengers, luggage, and longer journeys.
Mercedes-Benz has not simply stretched the roofline. The company has used the opportunity to rethink practicality while introducing new digital technology and an electric powertrain designed for long distance travel.
A Familiar Shape With New Lighting Details
The front end mirrors the CLA Saloon up to the B pillar, carrying over the low greenhouse, shark nose profile, and illuminated front panel with 142 individually illuminated LED stars. Combined with optional MULTIBEAM LED headlights and a full width light strip, the design creates a distinctive identity after dark.
At the rear, the roof extends further before tapering into the tailgate, giving the Shooting Brake a cleaner, more balanced silhouette than a traditional estate. A panoramic glass roof stretches almost uninterrupted from the windscreen to the rear, visually blending into the rear window and adding to the car's streamlined appearance.
More Space Without Losing Style
Although the proportions remain sporty, practicality has improved in several areas.
The body is longer, taller, and rides on a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. Rear passengers benefit from additional headroom, while the luggage compartment offers 455 litres of storage that expands to 1,290 litres with the rear seats folded. A 101 litre front trunk provides extra storage, and buyers can tow up to 1,800 kg on all wheel drive versions. Standard roof rails also make it easier to carry larger equipment such as bicycles or surfboards.
A Cabin Built Around Digital Technology
The interior follows the same architecture introduced in the CLA Saloon, but one feature immediately stands out. The optional panoramic roof can switch between transparent and opaque modes within milliseconds, while 158 illuminated stars embedded in the glass become visible at night through the ambient lighting system.
Elsewhere, the optional MBUX Superscreen stretches across the dashboard with up to three displays powered by MB.OS. The latest MBUX Virtual Assistant integrates Microsoft AI, Google Gemini, and Google Maps navigation while supporting over the air software updates. Mercedes-Benz has also responded to customer feedback by bringing back physical roller and rocker switches on the steering wheel for frequently used controls.
Long Range Electric Performance
Two fully electric versions will be available at launch. The CLA 250+ Shooting Brake develops 200 kW and delivers up to 761 km of WLTP range, while the CLA 350 4MATIC Shooting Brake increases output to 260 kW with dual motors and all wheel drive.
Both use an 85 kWh battery, an 800 volt electrical architecture, and support 320 kW DC fast charging. Under suitable conditions, Mercedes-Benz says up to 310 km of additional range can be recovered in around 10 minutes. Hybrid variants using a new 48 volt system are also planned for next year.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake UK Version X118 expands the brand's electric lineup with a model that places equal importance on efficiency, versatility, and everyday usability while maintaining the distinctive character that has defined the Shooting Brake nameplate for more than a decade.