How does the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake stand out from the standard coupé?
If you’ve ever admired the sleek lines of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupé but wished for a bit more practicality, the CLA Shooting Brake might just hit the sweet spot. This new model takes the familiar coupe silhouette and stretches it—literally. It’s 35mm longer and 27mm taller than the outgoing version, and the wheelbase grows by a healthy 61mm. The result? Noticeably more space for both people and their gear.
Rear headroom increases by 7mm (and a whopping 26mm more than the new coupé), while front passengers enjoy 14mm extra. Legroom? Up by 11mm in both rows. These numbers might sound small, but anyone who’s ever tried to squeeze into the back of a sporty coupe knows every millimeter counts. The Shooting Brake also boasts a 455-litre boot, which is 50 litres more than the coupé, plus a 101-litre frunk—a first for modern Mercedes models. Fold the rear seats and you’re looking at 1290 litres of total cargo space. That’s enough for a weekend getaway, a big grocery run, or even a couple of bikes.
What makes the CLA Shooting Brake’s electric powertrain special?
Mercedes isn’t just adding more space—they’re also pushing the envelope on electrification. The Shooting Brake launches as a pure EV, sharing its underpinnings with the CLA Coupé. At its heart is an 85kWh battery, promising up to 473 miles of range on a full charge. That’s just 19 miles shy of the more aerodynamic coupé, which is impressive for a wagon with a bigger rear end.
You get two main flavors: the 268bhp entry-level 250+ and the punchier 349bhp dual-motor 350. Four-wheel-drive versions can tow up to 1800kg, making this one of the few electric wagons that won’t flinch at a trailer or caravan. For those not quite ready to go full electric, a 1.5-litre hybrid is on the horizon for next year—so there’s something for everyone.
How does the interior tech and comfort compare to other Mercedes models?
Step inside and you’ll find the Shooting Brake mirrors the tech-forward vibe of the CLA Coupé. The driver faces a crisp 10.25-inch digital display, while the center of the dash is dominated by a 14-inch touchscreen. Want to keep your passenger entertained? There’s an optional 14-inch screen just for them. The cabin also gets a panoramic sunroof that stretches nearly the full length, flooding the space with natural light and making it feel even more open.
Mercedes has clearly prioritized comfort and convenience. Standard features include roof rails for extra carrying capacity and an electric tailgate for easy loading. The materials and fit-and-finish are exactly what you’d expect from a brand with this pedigree—plush, precise, and built to last.
Is the CLA Shooting Brake a practical choice for families or road trips?
Absolutely. The extra space, clever storage solutions, and long electric range make this wagon a compelling option for families or anyone who needs versatility without sacrificing style. The frunk is a game-changer for stashing charging cables, muddy boots, or anything you’d rather keep separate from the main cabin. And with the rear seats folded, you’ve got enough room to rival some small SUVs.
The towing capacity also opens up possibilities for outdoor adventures—think camping trailers, jet skis, or a small boat. And with Mercedes’ reputation for safety and advanced driver-assistance systems, you can hit the road with confidence.
What should buyers expect in terms of price and availability?
While Mercedes hasn’t released official pricing yet, industry insiders expect the CLA Shooting Brake to start above the standard coupé’s £45,000 price tag. Given the added space and tech, that seems reasonable. Deliveries are slated to begin early next year, so if you’re eyeing a stylish, practical EV wagon, it might be worth getting on the waiting list.
The big takeaway? The CLA Shooting Brake isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether that’s making room for more adventures or embracing the shift to electric, this Mercedes shows how a few thoughtful tweaks can make all the difference.