Mercedes-Benz CLA recognized as the 'Car of the Year 2026' in Europe
Mercedes-Benz CLA won the title of 'Car of the Year 2026'. The winner was announced at a gala evening as part of the International Motor Show in Brussels.
What is known
The winner was chosen by 59 automotive journalists from 23 European countries in a vote resembling the format of Eurovision.
This is already the 63rd season for the award, and this year the award once again went to a premium brand. In the final, the Mercedes-Benz CLA beat out six other contenders: Citroën C5 Aircross, Dacia Bigster, Fiat Grande Panda, Kia EV4, Renault 4, and Škoda Elroq.
The Car of the Year 2026. Photo: caroftheyear.org
For Mercedes-Benz, this is only the second victory in the history of the competition. The last time the German brand won the award was in 1974 with the Mercedes-Benz 450 SE/SEL model.
Jury voting results:
- Mercedes-Benz CLA - 320 points
- Škoda Elroq - 220 points
- Kia EV4 - 208 points
- Citroën C5 Aircross - 207 points
- Fiat Grande Panda - 200 points
- Dacia Bigster - 170 points
- Renault 4 - 150 points
The CLA also received the most first-place votes - 22 jury members placed it at the top of their rankings. Citroën C5 Aircross became the favorite among 15 journalists. Fiat Grande Panda received 9 first places, Škoda Elroq - 8. Kia EV4 topped the list for two jury members, while Renault 4 did not receive a single first place this year.
Last year, the title of 'Car of the Year' was won by the Renault 5 E-Tech.
Source: Caroftheyear
