Mercedes-Benz 2026 CLA 220 hybrid features a Geely 1.5T engine with 208 horsepower
Mercedes-Benz has provided further clarification on the powertrain details of the 2026 CLA 220 hybrid sedan, building on technical information that was first disclosed earlier in 2025. The latest report consolidates vehicle-level specifications for the production version of the CLA 220, including hybrid system operation, output figures, and confirmation that the jointly developed engine with Geely will be manufactured in China, according to IT-home.
The M252 1.5-litre turbocharged engine used in the CLA 220 hybrid was co-developed by Mercedes-Benz and Geely, with Mercedes-Benz providing the engine architecture and design standards. At the same time, Geely contributed to engineering development and production in China.
The M252 engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s Family of Modular Engines (FAME) and incorporates Miller-cycle technology along with an integrated exhaust manifold in the cylinder head. According to Mercedes, this configuration reduces turbo lag, accelerates catalyst warm-up, and enables lean-burn combustion while maintaining power output and lowering fuel consumption. The engine produces 188 horsepower and operates alongside an electric motor within the hybrid system.
The 48-volt hybrid system integrates a 30-horsepower, 200 Nm electric motor inside the 8F-eDCT transmission, connected to a 1.3 kWh compact battery. The system enables the vehicle to operate in pure-electric mode when power demand is below 27 horsepower and supports coasting at speeds up to 97 km/h. Energy recovery is available across all eight transmission gears, with a maximum recovery rate of 25 kW, improving overall energy efficiency.
Combined output from the engine and electric motor is 208 horsepower, with peak torque of 380 Nm. Mercedes-Benz states that the CLA 220, weighing approximately 1,630 kilograms, accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h. Noise-reduction measures include a dual-layer partition and the extension of sound-absorbing materials to the A-pillars and the floor.
Externally, the 2026 CLA 220 continues the design language of Mercedes’ electric models, with a chrome-accented star grille and illuminated trim extending through the front and rear lighting elements. Standard and optional headlights feature continuous light strips, while the trunk offers 405 litres (14.3 cubic feet) of cargo space.
The interior features the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system and the MB.OS operating system, incorporating artificial intelligence technologies from Google and Microsoft. Optional MBUX Superscreen configurations integrate a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and a 14-inch front passenger display, supporting customised route guidance via Google Maps.
The 2026 CLA 220 will enter the market with a hybrid system designed to optimise fuel economy and energy recovery, produced through the Mercedes-Benz and Geely partnership in China.
Editor’s comment:
Core technical details of the M252 1.5-litre engine and the 48V hybrid system were publicly reported earlier in 2025, and this article reflects Mercedes-Benz’s latest confirmation of vehicle-level specifications for the 2026 CLA 220 hybrid.
Updated: 16/12/2025 China time 22:55
