The automotive media occasionally rubs it in when they show us a wagon that is being introduced in Europe but won’t be available in the U.S. Ever see the Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake? That gorgeous wagon never made it to America. And when was the last time the BMW 3 Series wagon was available in the continental U.S.? It’s available in M3-spec too! Now, Mercedes-Benz introduces a new CLA Shooting Brake, and while it’s not going to appear on our continent, we still want to poke our eyes out.
Americans have never fully embraced the Mercedes CLA, which was the first FWD to appear on our shores. The entry-level Benz comes off as being dumbed down for the masses, lacking much of the moxie that makes Mercedes a vaunted brand. Its proportions came off as somewhat awkward since Mercedes-Benz appears to have applied the CLS styling—the sensational coupe-like sedan debuted over 20 years ago already—to a FWD platform. There were even AMG variants putting out crazy horsepower from a 355-horsepower 2.0-liter twin-turbo four (later updated to 375). Mercedes did offer a Shooting Brake variant (admittedly, to these eyes, as awkward as the sedan) but the U.S. was never a recipient.
Sales peaked at close to 30k in calendar year 2015 but, four years later, with the advent of the second-generation CLA, it was less than half that. The proportions settled into something that looked less awkward—dare I say attractive—and the AMG variants offered even more horsepower (up to 420), but an entry-level version (AMG CLA35) with 302 horsepower was new. Once again, a Shooting Brake was offered, looking much better than before, but Americans were blacklisted from buying one.
This past May, Mercedes introduced the third-generation CLA. It stands as the first Mercedes-Benz product with both ICE and EV versions featuring identical designs, as previously the Mercedes’ EQ series of EVs have had a distinct look. Much of that look has been hoisted upon the CLA, especially the piece of trim that connects the headlights together and the benign bar-of-soap designed to cheat the wind at the expense of style. The overall effect is disturbing to the sensibilities of those who eschew toasters-on-wheels. Mercedes calls the design language “Sensual Purity,” which comes off like something I once read from “1984.” It’s an unfortunate amalgamation of goofy EQ-inspired design with the rear styling from the late Lincoln MKT.
“The new CLA Shooting Brake is designed for those who appreciate the dynamism of a sporty vehicle but don’t want to compromise on space and practicality in everyday life,” ruminates Mathias Geisen, a big guy at Mercedes-Benz Group AG with a title so long, you may nod off. “It combines intelligent technology and efficiency to deliver a fresh, engaging driving experience. For our customers, this means more space for individuality, travelling and for their own personal lifestyle.”
The CLA uses the company’s Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA and, no, Conor McGregor is not a new sponsor). “[It] is proof of the innovative strength of Mercedes-Benz. It has been designed in such a way that all four models of the new vehicle can be flexibly built on it—both with electric drive and with a high-tech hybrid combustion engine.” This reduces complexity and adds economies of scale.
Unbeknownst to you, this is the first electric Shooting Brake in Mercedes’ lineup. “Panoramic roof and illuminated starry sky set a new benchmark in this segment,” the automaker claims. The upside is that cruising range of 472—quite impressive in today’s market. Also worth noting is the new steering wheel of the CLA Shooting Brake offers improved ergonomics and intuitive operation, with Mercedes‑Benz reintroducing rocker switches and rollers on the steering wheel (props go to customers who made the request).
This redesigned model has yet to hit American dealers, but that’s quite alright because a 48-volt hybrid is still waiting in the wings, planned for a debut early in 2026. Who else but the Germans would integrate an electric motor into the transmission (we suggest leasing, not buying). While reports of the wagon’s death are grossly exaggerated, the redesigned CLA Shooting Brake may be one we won’t miss.
