Mercedes 2026: Electric C-Class, Mini G, and Elantra Rival

Mercedes kicked off 2026 with the most ambitious launch program in its history: 16 new models this year, 14 in 2027. On the menu: a fully electric C-Class on the MB.EA platform with over 800 km of range, a "mini G" measuring 4.70 meters expected by late 2026/early 2027, and a CLA gaining an intermediate 250 version with 671 km of range. Not to mention AMG finally returning to a six-cylinder with a future C 53.

"Seven world premieres in three months. I've never experienced anything like this!" — Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, during the strategic plan presentation

The Electric CLA Already Carves Its Place in the Segment

The CLA hit hard from its launch in March 2025. Named Car of the Year 2026, it now arrives with an intermediate version that fills the gap between the two ends of the range. The CLA 250 packs an NMC battery of 71 kWh and promises 671 km of WLTP range. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint takes 6.7 seconds, top speed caps at 210 km/h — identical to the 250+. Its ace? Going from 10 to 80% charge in 20 minutes thanks to 800V fast charging.

The entry price stays under 53,000 euros, positioning it smartly between the CLA 200 (48,050 €, 58 kWh battery, up to 542 km) and the CLA 250+ (85 kWh battery, up to 792 km). Sales in France are slated for the second half of 2026.

What Range for the Future Electric C-Class?

The C-Class EQ rides on the MB.EA platform — the same as the new electric GLC — specifically designed for mid-size and large vehicles. Claimed range exceeds 800 km WLTP, with a 94 kWh battery and 10 to 80% charge in 22 minutes. The top-tier C400 dual-motor version could hit 483 horsepower in 4Matic configuration. Technically, it has nothing to do with the combustion C-Class — it's a distinct model on a dedicated architecture.

On the design front, the electric sedan adopts a large closed illuminated grille, light blades, and a redefined three-box silhouette with a fixed third window in the rear pillar. It's divisive. Some see stylistic coherence with the GLC EQ, others find the front end too busy. Either way, Mercedes isn't playing it safe.

Its world premiere is scheduled for spring 2026, with production starting in the second quarter at the Hungarian plant in Kecskemét. First deliveries to dealerships are expected in fall 2026. Its rival, the BMW i3, should arrive around the same time — the battle for the premium electric D-segment is heating up.

The Mini G: A Real 4x4 or a Disguised City SUV?

The "mini G" — whose final name isn't known yet — has been spotted camouflaged on snowy roads in Scandinavia for weeks. What we know: it measures about 4.70 meters (compared to 4.82 m for the G-Class), is noticeably lower, and sits on a modified version of the MMA platform. The suspension has been reworked for genuine off-road capability, and the electric version keeps the 800V architecture from the CLA.

The real surprise is the combustion option. According to Caradisiac, Mercedes is considering a 1,499 cc hybridized gasoline engine, a strong argument against current hesitations about going fully electric. The reveal is expected at the end of 2026, with launch