2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA vs 2025 Audi A5

The 2025 Audi A5 was a testament to Audi's enduring design language, showcasing a handsome yet familiar aesthetic. Its uncluttered appearance was a refreshing departure from the more complex styling of its sibling, the Audi Q5 crossover. The A5 retained the iconic "single frame" grille and distinctive daytime running lights that had become synonymous with Audi since the mid-2000s. Despite being available only as a hatchback, the A5's profile closely resembled a sedan, reminiscent of the Audi A4 it replaced. However, the design's familiarity made it challenging to generate excitement, even with intriguing details like the "ice cream scoop" hood indents and subtle fender creases inspired by the legendary Audi quattro rally cars.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA presented a more dynamic and edgy design. The CLA grew slightly in all dimensions, adopting a sophisticated four-door fastback style that Mercedes referred to as a coupe. The new illuminated grille with various animations added a touch of flair, while the overall styling moved away from the egg shape of older models, offering more dimension. Inside, the CLA retained some familiar design elements, such as round HVAC vents and an emphasis on screens. However, Mercedes made some changes, like redesigning the seat adjuster levers and window switches, although the removal of rear window switches on the driver's side was seen as a cost-cutting measure.

The 2025 Audi A5 offered two powertrain options, both featuring standard all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The base model was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, marking slight increases over the previous model year. The sportier S5 variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine with 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Audi introduced variable-geometry turbochargers for quicker response, reducing turbo lag and enhancing acceleration. The A5 achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds, while the S5 reached the same speed in 4.6 seconds. Both models featured brake-based torque vectoring, with the S5 receiving sportier suspension tuning and performance tires.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA offered a different performance experience with its dual electric motors in the CLA 350 4Matic, delivering 349 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The single-motor 250+ variant, which was tested, produced 268 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. Despite its substantial curb weight of over 2,000 kilograms, the CLA 250+ achieved a 0-96 km/h time of over 6.6 seconds, while the CLA 350+ managed 4.8 seconds. The CLA's steel-sprung suspension provided a comfortable ride, and its two-speed transmission balanced low-speed acceleration with highway efficiency. The CLA's 800-volt system enabled rapid DC fast charging, with a maximum of 320 kW, allowing for quick range replenishment.

The 2025 Audi A5's redesign resulted in a larger and more spacious interior. It was nearly seven centimetres longer, 1.5 cm wider, and five cm taller than its predecessor, with a wheelbase extended by 6.5 cm. This contributed to an additional 2.5 cm of rear legroom, while front legroom remained unchanged. The A5 offered more shoulder room and headroom, enhancing overall comfort. Rear-seat headroom increased slightly, making it competitive with rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The A5 excelled in cargo space, providing 640 litres behind the rear seats and 1,026 litres with the seats folded, thanks to its hatchback design. The dimmable glass roof and heated seats added convenience and comfort.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA came equipped with a range of standard features, including heated power front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic climate control. The CLA introduced a 70-litre frunk, a first for Mercedes since the 1930s, offering additional storage space. The rear trunk, while not as large as some competitors, provided 404 litres of capacity. Mercedes made changes to the steering wheel controls, simplifying the layout by removing capacitive touchpads. The CLA's air-to-air heat pump improved battery pre-conditioning and cabin comfort during fast charging. The MB.CHARGE Public function allowed drivers to reserve charging spots, although its availability in Canada was uncertain.

The 2025 Audi A5 featured significant infotainment upgrades, including a standard 14.5-inch touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster housed in a curved display. An optional 10.9-inch front-passenger touchscreen was available with the Technik trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with wireless device charging, were standard. The infotainment system's placement was driver-focused, with high-quality graphics and improved natural-language voice recognition. The optional Bang & Olufsen audio system with 20 speakers enhanced the listening experience, while digital key technology and the Digital Interaction Light added convenience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA boasted advanced technology with a new operating system supporting over-the-air updates. Inside, a 10.25-inch driver display and a 14-inch centre display ran the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system. The augmented-reality navigation provided useful turn-by-turn directions, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The optional MBUX Superscreen added a 14-inch passenger display with streaming apps and games. However, the lack of a privacy shade for the passenger screen was a drawback. The CLA's technology package offered a sophisticated cabin experience, although the absence of the Superscreen left a less appealing trim piece.

The 2025 Audi A5 came equipped with standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, active front assist, safe-exit warning, parking sensors, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included park assist and adaptive cruise assist with automated lane centring. While complete safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable, initial crash test results from the IIHS were positive, and Audi aimed for high safety ratings similar to its predecessors.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA introduced a class-exclusive centre airbag to protect occupants in a side impact. Standard driver aids included adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with exit assist, emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. Optional features like active steering and lane change assist enhanced safety, although they were not as advanced as the Drive Pilot Level 3 system in the EQS sedan. A 360-degree camera system and parking assist were also available. Safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available.