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Video | Mercedes-Benz CLA
Rory Reid heads to the Austrian mountains to experience how the new CLA hybrid compares to its all-electric equivalent.
Words by: Eleanor Greaves
Last updated on 22 January 2026 | 0 min read
Last year Rory drove the fully electric Mercedes Benz CLA and was impressed by its driving experience, interior design and cutting-edge technology. But how does that vehicle compare to the hybrid model? In this video, Rory explores whether the addition of a combustion engine and fuel tank still makes that much of an impact. If you’re currently debating whether to go for a hybrid or electric vehicle, this video’s for you.
Up in the Austrian alps, the drive offers an opportunity to experience the CLA across a variety of conditions and road types, from driving on public roads to closed-off mountain routes. In the video, Rory gives us a closer look of how the CLA copes in winter conditions, from deep snow to sub-zero temperatures, putting the perception that combustion engine vehicles perform better in cold conditions to the test. Visually, the hybrid CLA looks similar in terms of interior design to the fully electric model, but does it still stand out in 2026? Rory takes a closer look inside to see whether the technology, comfort and practicality of the vehicle is fit for its intended audience. Whilst the design of the CLA may be similar, under the bonnet sits a very different drive train. The CLA hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and new transmission, aiming to prioritise efficiency. During the video, Rory explores how the hybrid system operates, how the vehicle performs in different driving modes and how features like adaptive cruise control and 3D cameras impact the overall experience. Interested to see how the hybrid compares to the all-electric CLA? Be sure to watch the video to see how it all unfolds. If you enjoy this video and think that a hybrid vehicle is the right car for you, learn more and explore the latest models here.
Up in the Austrian alps, the drive offers an opportunity to experience the CLA across a variety of conditions and road types, from driving on public roads to closed-off mountain routes. In the video, Rory gives us a closer look of how the CLA copes in winter conditions, from deep snow to sub-zero temperatures, putting the perception that combustion engine vehicles perform better in cold conditions to the test. Visually, the hybrid CLA looks similar in terms of interior design to the fully electric model, but does it still stand out in 2026? Rory takes a closer look inside to see whether the technology, comfort and practicality of the vehicle is fit for its intended audience. Whilst the design of the CLA may be similar, under the bonnet sits a very different drive train. The CLA hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and new transmission, aiming to prioritise efficiency. During the video, Rory explores how the hybrid system operates, how the vehicle performs in different driving modes and how features like adaptive cruise control and 3D cameras impact the overall experience. Interested to see how the hybrid compares to the all-electric CLA? Be sure to watch the video to see how it all unfolds. If you enjoy this video and think that a hybrid vehicle is the right car for you, learn more and explore the latest models here.