Behind the wheel of Mercedes’ 2026 electric CLA on Queensland’s Gold Coast—does it live up to the hype? While many automakers pause EV plans, Mercedes doubles down with this MMA-platform first model, arriving in Australia before its GLA/GLB siblings. Later this year, its first electric Shooting Brake (Australia’s first wagon since 2021’s C-Class Estate) launches.

Pros: Smooth performance, upgraded build quality, true-to-advertised range, only $4100 pricier than the CLA200 hybrid (before on-road costs)—far more reasonable than most EV premiums. Cons: Tacky styling/lighting, underfunctional passenger screen, tight rear headroom for tall folks.

Would you grab the electric CLA or wait for the Shooting Brake? What’s top of your luxury EV wishlist?