Mercedes-Benz has just pulled the covers off its all-new CLA Shooting Brake, and it’s far more than just a stylish compact estate. This third-generation model has been reimagined for the electric era, blending practicality with long-distance EV capability that could rival some of the biggest names in the segment. Whether you’re eyeing it for family road trips across the UAE or simply want a car that turns heads while quietly gliding past fuel stations, the new CLA Shooting Brake offers a combination of design, tech, and range that’s difficult to ignore. In this guide, we’ll explore its standout features, performance specs, and what makes it a smart choice for both the city streets of Dubai and the open highways stretching into the desert.
1: Design and Body Style
The CLA Shooting Brake has always been more than a sedan with a bigger boot. It’s a statement piece sleek yet functional.
- Design evolution: The CLA’s Shooting Brake silhouette has matured over the last decade, retaining its coupe-inspired roofline while becoming more practical for everyday life.
- Aerodynamics: Shaped with inspiration from the record-breaking VISION EQXX concept, its elongated profile doesn’t just add elegance it improves airflow and stability.
- Boot practicality: With its extended rear, the CLA Shooting Brake offers a meaningful increase in cargo space compared to the sedan.
- Competitor comparison: Rivals such as the BMW i4 Touring and Audi A5 Sportback may compete on luxury and dynamics, but in terms of boot space and proportions, the CLA Shooting Brake positions itself as the more practical yet equally stylish choice.
2. Electric Powertrains and Performance
Mercedes offers two all-electric powertrains, giving buyers the choice between efficiency and extra punch.
- CLA 250+ (RWD, single-motor)
- 268 hp, 336 Nm torque
- 0–100 km/h in 6.8 seconds
- WLTP range up to 760 km (estimated EPA: 570–590 km)
- CLA 350 4MATIC (AWD, dual-motor)
- 349 hp, 515 Nm torque
- 0–100 km/h in just 5.0 seconds
- WLTP range up to 730 km
- Highway innovation: A two-speed transmission similar to the Porsche Taycan improves efficiency at high speeds.
- Long-haul stability: With its planted stance, the CLA is built for UAE intercity journeys, offering confidence on long stretches of desert highway.
3. Charging Technology and Battery Innovations
Mercedes is bringing real innovation with its new 800-volt electrical architecture.
- Battery pack: 85 kWh
- Ultra-fast charging: Up to 320 kW DC fast-charging capability
- 10-minute top-up: At compatible stations, drivers can add around 323 km of range in just 10 minutes.
- Compatibility: Works with 400-volt chargers via a factory converter (available from spring 2026).
- Network access: Comes with a standard CCS-to-NACS adapter, giving drivers access to Tesla Superchargers.
- Regional charging growth: Mercedes’ own high-power charging network is also being rolled out, complementing the UAE’s fast-expanding EV infrastructure along the E11 and E611 highways.
4. Interior and Technology Experience
The CLA Shooting Brake cabin is a blend of luxury and next-gen digital innovation.
- Superscreen: A stunning 38.25-inch display stretches across driver, central, and passenger zones.
- MBUX evolution: The fourth-generation infotainment runs on the all-new MB.OS platform.
- Smart AI: Integrated with Microsoft and Google, the car offers predictive suggestions and smarter voice commands.
- Comfort highlights: Heated seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a completely flat floor improve passenger space.
- Frunk innovation: For the first time in 90 years, a Mercedes CLA offers a front trunk for added flexibility.
5. Driving Experience and Ride Comfort
The CLA Shooting Brake is tuned for both excitement and relaxation.
- CLA 250+: Prioritises comfort and balanced handling.
- CLA 350: Sharper suspension tuning and quicker acceleration for performance enthusiasts.
- Refinement: Thanks to aerodynamics and its silent EV drivetrain, road and wind noise are minimal.
- Range reassurance: With over 570 km of real-world range, UAE drivers can set off on long road trips without worrying about constant recharging.
6. Practicality and Market Positioning
This is where the Shooting Brake body style truly shines.
- Cargo capacity: More space than the CLA sedan while retaining coupe-inspired style.
- Everyday use: Perfectly suited for Dubai’s urban commutes and Sharjah–Abu Dhabi daily drives.
- Luxury positioning: While mainstream EV estates like the MG5 or Peugeot e-308 SW exist, the CLA Shooting Brake occupies a more exclusive niche premium, stylish, and practical.
7. Hybrid Variant on the Horizon
Not every buyer is ready to go full-electric. Mercedes is preparing a hybrid Shooting Brake for select markets.
- Expected setup: 1.5-litre turbo engine paired with a 1.3 kWh battery.
- Efficiency gains: Improved fuel economy and lower CO₂ emissions.
- Transitional appeal: Ideal for regions where charging infrastructure is still developing.
UAE & Dubai Buyer Insights
In the UAE, EV practicality is as much about range as charging speed. With 570–590 km of estimated real-world range, the CLA Shooting Brake can easily manage a Dubai–Salalah trip with just one quick charging stop.
As the UAE accelerates its Green Mobility Strategy 2030, the CLA Shooting Brake fits perfectly into a market eager for high-tech, stylish EVs that don’t compromise on practicality. For young professionals and families alike, this Mercedes offers one-car convenience weekday commuter, weekend getaway machine, and luxury statement all in one.
Conclusion: A Luxury EV Estate Redefined
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake EV is more than a niche design exercise it’s a genuine all-rounder. With a long electric range, ultra-fast charging, striking design, and a tech-filled cabin, it promises to redefine what compact estates can offer in the EV era.
Whether it’s the CLA 250+ for balanced efficiency or the CLA 350 for spirited performance, Mercedes has created a luxury EV that feels tailor-made for UAE lifestyles. Stylish, practical, and innovative it’s hard to ignore.
MotorHub EV Service: Your Partner on the Road
At MotorHub, we don’t just review cars we keep them running at their best. From advanced EV diagnostics to battery health checks and routine servicing, our expert team ensures your Mercedes-Benz or any premium EV performs as designed. Whether you’re planning a long-haul journey across the Emirates or just want peace of mind for daily commutes, MotorHub is your trusted partner for electric mobility care in the UAE.
