Mercedes-Benz Archives - The OpenRoad Blog

2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric: The Ultimate Executive EV?

Mike Ginsca on September 16, 2026

For decades, the Mercedes-Benz hierarchy was simple: successful regional managers bought the E-Class, while world leaders and executives opted for the flagship S-Class. But for younger, style-conscious drivers who refused to drive their parents’ SUV, the sleek, combustion-powered CLA fastback was the go-to entry point.

Now, the classic silhouette gets a high-tech overhaul with the 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric. Designed to take on long-standing luxury EV benchmarks like the Tesla Model 3, this entry-level electric sedan proves you don’t have to compromise on style, range, or build quality to go green.

Built on the all-new Mercedes-Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, the CLA Electric retains its signature mini-CLS fastback coupe silhouette, presenting a low-slung, aggressive, and athletic profile. The traditional front grille is replaced by a striking illuminated panel adorned with dozens of tiny Mercedes stars, anchored by headlights that feature the iconic three-pointed star as daytime running lights. Around back, a full-width LED light bar and integrated star-pattern taillights complete a head-turning, premium look that leaves no doubt about its heritage.

Step inside, and the centerpiece of the cabin is the optional MBUX Superscreen. Powered by a fast, advanced processor architecture, it delivers stutter-free animations, over-the-air updates, and intuitive AI features that learn your daily routines and respond to natural speech. Passengers can enjoy a dedicated display with active privacy technology to avoid distracting the driver. Thanks to the dedicated EV platform pushing the wheels to the corners, rear legroom is vastly improved over older gas models. While the sloping roofline keeps rear headroom slightly tight for taller passengers, the cabin remains comfortable. Storage is equally practical, offering 405 liters of rear cargo space with flat-folding back seats alongside an additional 101-liter front trunk under the hood.

In Canada, buyers can choose between two distinct powertrains. The baseline CLA 250+ features a rear-wheel-drive single motor producing 268 horsepower, while the dual-motor CLA 350+ delivers all-wheel drive with 349 horsepower, launching from zero to 100 km/h in under five seconds. Unlike most electric sedans that rely on a single-speed transmission, the CLA Electric features an innovative two-speed transmission. First gear delivers instant off-the-line torque, while second gear engages at higher speeds to maximize efficiency and maintain strong pulling power during highway passing maneuvers.

Rather than packing a heavy 100+ kWh battery, the CLA relies on a dense, efficient 85-kWh pack derived from the Vision EQXX concept car. This yields an estimated driving range of up to 602 kilometers on the CLA 250+ and up to 502 kilometers on the CLA 350+. To combat cold climate efficiency loss, every CLA comes equipped with a standard heat pump that harvests waste heat from the motors, battery, and ambient air to warm the cabin without draining precious battery power during freezing Canadian winters.

Thanks to an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture, long road trips do not mean endless waiting at fast chargers. The CLA supports DC fast charging speeds up to 320 kW, allowing you to replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 22 minutes at a compatible charger. Drivers can even add up to 300 kilometers of range in a quick ten-minute stop. For home charging, the included 9.6-kW onboard Level 2 charger easily replenishes the battery pack overnight.

Pricing for the Canadian market starts at just under $50,000 for the rear-wheel-drive CLA 250+, while the all-wheel-drive CLA 350+ begins at around $56,000, though fully optioned models with premium packages can push final prices above $80,000 before taxes and fees. Ultimately, the 2026 CLA Electric proves that going electric does not mean settling for flimsy build quality or compromised winter usability. Stuttgart has delivered a formidable premium compact EV that points the way forward for the segment.

To learn more or schedule a test drive, contact OpenRoad Mercedes-Benz Surrey or visit OpenRoadAuto.com online today.

The Most Anticipated EVs of 2026

Mike Ginsca on September 18, 2025

The electric vehicle market is accelerating. Automakers are positioning several new models for launch in 2026 that aim to push range, performance, charging speed, design innovation, and affordability. These EVs reflect maturing battery technology and increasing competition. Below are some of the top EVs to watch for in 2026.

Acura RSX

The Acura RSX was a fun sports car back in the early 2000’s. In 2026, Acura is reviving the RSX name but it will be on the back of a new electric crossover. The 2026 RSX will join the ZDX in Acura’s growing EV portfolio. The new RSX will be built on Acura/Honda’s new dedicated EV platform with assembly in Ohio. Expect to see the RSX at OpenRoad Acura Richmond in the second half of 2026.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 N

Following the success of the IONIQ 5 N, the IONIQ 6 N will bring supercar performance in the shape of a sleek electric sedan. The 6 N will adopt the same dual-motor powertrain with up to 641 hp on tap and a 0-100 km/h time of around 3.2 seconds. Like the IONIQ 5 N, the IONIQ 6 N will replicate virtual gear changes and simulate engine sounds for a more thrilling driving experience. Expect to see the Hyundai IONIQ 6 N at OpenRoad Hyundai Richmond’s showroom in early 2026.

BMW iX3

Based on the Vision Neue Klasse Concept, the iX3 will be a smaller version of the popular iX electric SUV in the brand’s portfolio. The new iX3 ushers in a new design era with slimmer BMW kidney grilles and a simplified interior. Boasting up to 463 hp, the iX3 will be a quick EV and it will allow for long road trips thanks to an estimated driving range of up to 650 km. The 2026 BMW iX3 will arrive at The BMW Store Vancouver and BMW Langley in Spring of 2026.

Lexus ES

Entering its 8^th generation, the 2026 Lexus ES will be offered for the first time as a battery electric vehicle alongside a new hybrid powertrain. Available with FWD or AWD, the electric versions of the 2026 ES will have an estimate driving range of up to 480 km, but Lexus has not yet released power figures. Inside, the 14-inch touchscreen is the center focal point of the dashboard along with two new Lexus design elements. Bamboo Layering recreates the depth and flow of natural bamboo using 3D printing while Synthetic Leather Embossing pairs sharp embossing with ambient lighting to enhance the cabin’s clean, elegant atmosphere. Sales of the 2026 Lexus ES will start in early 2026 at OpenRoad Lexus Richmond, OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody, and Lexus of London.

Toyota C-HR

The Toyota C-HR returns as a compact electric crossover alongside the Toyota bZ4X. The 2026 C-HR features a coupe-like profile with an eye-catching design that is similar to the Toyota Crown Signia. It will be available as a FWD with 221 hp or AWD with 338 hp and an electric driving range of up to 500 km. No word on pricing but you can expect to see it in one of our 6 OpenRoad Toyota showrooms across BC and Ontario in early 2026.

Subaru Uncharted

Just as the Solterra is based on the bZ4X, the all-new Uncharted is based on the equally new C-HR EV. The Subaru Uncharted sports the same updated design as its Solterra bigger brother. But with its smaller size and available AWD system, it will sprint from a stop to 100 km/h in around 5 seconds. Subaru is estimating up to 500 km of driving range for the FWD version and a little bit less with the dual-motor AWD version. Expect to see the new Uncharted at OpenRoad Subaru Boundary in early 2026.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Electric

The Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is one of the most popular SUVs in the brand’s portfolio, so it comes as no surprise that an electric version is on the horizon. Dubbed the GLC SUV with EQ Technology, it will be a pivotal shift in the brand’s EV portfolio. The GLC EQ will feature a brand-new iteration of the Hyperscreen that is currently available in some EQ models. It will also integrate a new 4^th generation infotainment system and AI based voice controls. Powering the new GLC class with EQ Technology will be a 94-kWh battery pack providing up to 483 hp and a new two-speed transmission. The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology is expected to arrive at OpenRoad Mercedes-Benz Surrey sometime in 2026.

Coupe SUV Showdown: 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe

Mike Ginsca on June 25, 2025

A coupe-SUV is a type of sports utility vehicle with a sloping rear roofline akin to a sporty sedan. It offers the tall driving position of an SUV but with the stylish design of a low-slung compact car.

One of the first cars to have this design was the BMW X6 way back in 2008. It took a few more years before other manufacturers created their own Coupe-SUVs but now, almost every luxury brand offers one. The latest to join this trend is the all-new Genesis GV80 Coupe.

Like the standard GV80, the GV80 Coupe is a spacious SUV with a luxurious cabin. The quilted Nappa leather seats are among the most comfortable you’ll ever sit in. The D-shaped steering wheel and available carbon fiber trim add a touch of sportiness to complement the stylish exterior.

But the main focal point of this interior is the 27” OLED display. This is a seamless integration of the driver instrument cluster and the infotainment system. These are not split screens made to look as though it’s one like how it is in some other vehicles.

To further add to the ambiance of luxury, the GV80 Coupe has a built-in fragrance system. This is integrated into the climate controls and Genesis offers three distinct aromas; Coming Home, Jaunty Breeze, and Down to Earth.

However, there is a small drawback to having a coupe-SUV design which is most noticeable in the back seats. Legroom between this and the regular GV80 is the same but headroom is a bit less in the coupe version. Also, there’s no optional 3^rd row and you get a little bit less cargo space behind the seats.

But what you take away with one hand, you give with the other. Under the hood, the GV80 Coupe has a more powerful engine than the one in the standard GV80.

Both cars have 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engines. But the one in the Coupe version produces 409 hp whereas the one in the standard GV80 produces 375 hp. Why the difference? Well, the GV80 Coupe has a 48-Volt mild hybrid system.

It’s not a traditional hybrid system in the sense that it will allow the SUV to be driven for brief periods on nothing but just electricity. Instead, this system provides a little bit more power to the engine through the use of an electric supercharger. In addition, it also provides a smooth auto start/stop function and improved fuel economy, particularly in a city environment.

And then of course, there is the design. The sleek roofline and subtle spoiler give this SUV the sporty stance that sets these types of vehicles apart from every other. The GV80 coupe also comes with standard 22” wheels and like all other Genesis vehicles, the signature double lines of the headlight daytime running lights are carried to the side turn signals and the rear taillamps.

But as I said at the start of the article, this is the latest coupe SUV to join the market. So how does the new kid on the block compare to something that’s been around the block a few times already?

Like the GV80 Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe has a similar sporty silhouette. Looks are subjective which is why to some, the GLE Coupe may look a bit more elegant from certain angles. The slim taillights and subtle spoiler make the GLE Coupe look timeless, especially if you get it in black.

But looks are one thing. What’s available under the hood of the GLE is something completely different. You can get it with the bi-turbo V8 engine which produces just over 600 hp. The Genesis GV80 Coupe can’t match that. Of course, if that’s too much for you, there’s the GLE 53 AMG with 429 hp or the GLE 450 with 375 hp.

Sure, the GLE 450 doesn’t produce the same power as the twin-turbo V6 in the Genesis, but it has a clever engine. It has a 48-Volt mild-hybrid system like in the GV80 Coupe but if you switch the drive mode to Eco and then take your foot off the throttle pedal while driving over 60 km/h, then the engine will shut itself off and let the car coast. This in turn provides better fuel economy because it allows the GLE to coast a little bit further down the road with minimal loss in speed due to engine braking. It does this for brief periods and the engine immediately starts up whenever you touch the throttle pedal again. This gives the GLE Coupe a combined fuel consumption figure of 11.2 L/100km vs 12 L/100km for the GV80 Coupe.

But you’re not just buying a car like this for the fuel economy and the looks, you’re also getting it for the luxury. Both cars have similar features such as heated, ventilated, & massaging front seats, head-up displays, wireless phone charging pads, and soft close doors. But it’s the Mercedes can be optioned with just a few more convenience & luxury features which just sets this car further apart from others.

Some of these features include a 4-zone climate control system, heated front arm rests and upper door panels, heated & chilled cup holders, and one of the smoothest drives of any luxury SUV thanks to the Airmatic suspension.

So, these two coupe SUVs have elegant silhouettes, similar interior space and similar features. Where they differ is with their prices. The Genesis GV80 Coupe is only available in one trim level and it will cost you $104,000. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Coupe starts at $99,900 but in order to have similar options to the GV80 Coupe, you will have to add on a few packages.

In the end, which one fancies your eye more? Let us know in the comments. And if you’d like to learn more about either car, please contact our knowledgeable product specialists at OpenRoad Mercedes-Benz Surrey or Genesis Richmond.