Mercedes-AMG Launches Limited CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' for 2026

Mercedes-AMG has officially unveiled the CLA 45 S 'Final Edition,' a limited-edition high-performance compact sport sedan set to launch in early 2026. This exclusive model showcases an impressive 416-horsepower turbocharged engine, a distinctive grey and yellow design, and a suite of aerodynamic enhancements, marking a significant farewell to the CLA 45 line.

The CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' will be finished in MANUFAKTUR Mountain Grey Magno, featuring bold black and yellow graphics that accentuate its aggressive stance. The vehicle is equipped with 19-inch matte black forged wheels adorned with yellow accents, enhancing its sporty aesthetic. According to Mercedes-AMG, the design has undergone rigorous testing in their wind tunnel to optimize aerodynamics.

Under the hood, the CLA 45 S is powered by a hand-built 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, thanks to its advanced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which includes torque vectoring and a drift mode feature.

Inside, the vehicle boasts AMG Performance seats upholstered in black MB-Tex and microfiber, complemented by striking yellow contrast stitching. Additional features include unique badging, illuminated yellow AMG door sills, and yellow-stitched floor mats, creating an upscale interior atmosphere.

The CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' will come with an array of standard features, such as the AMG Night Package Plus and Aerodynamics Package Plus, ensuring a balance of track-ready performance and luxurious refinement. This edition aims to celebrate the end of an era for the AMG compact powerhouse, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Dr. David Koller, an automotive expert and Professor at the University of Stuttgart, emphasized the significance of this model in the context of Mercedes-AMG's history. "The CLA 45 S has been pivotal in establishing AMG's presence in the compact performance segment, and this 'Final Edition' is a worthy tribute to its legacy," he stated in a recent interview.

The limited production run of the CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' signifies a strategic move by Mercedes-AMG as the automotive industry increasingly pivots towards electrification. As manufacturers globally evaluate the future of performance vehicles, the launch of this model may serve as a bridge between traditional gasoline-powered performance and the upcoming wave of electric vehicles.

In terms of market positioning, the CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' will face competition from other luxury performance compact vehicles, including the Audi RS3 and BMW M2. According to automotive analyst Sarah Thompson, "This release is crucial for Mercedes-AMG to maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market."

With the CLA 45 S 'Final Edition' slated for U.S. dealerships in early 2026, the automotive community eagerly anticipates its debut, marking the culmination of a notable chapter in the brand's performance history. The implications for the market and future models remain to be seen as Mercedes-AMG continues to innovate in an era of transformation.