- The next Mercedes CLA will feature a China-built 2.0L engine developed by Geely and Renault, then fine-tuned in Germany.
- This isn’t the first time the CLA has used non-Mercedes engines; select first- and second-gen models also ran Renault powertrains.
- The new compact sedan will also include an urban-assist driving system developed by the Chinese startup Momenta.
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA is just around the corner, and it’s set to debut with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine sourced from Horse Powertrain Limited—the internal combustion engine (ICE) joint venture between Renault and Geely.
Reportedly, Mercedes lent its engineering expertise to develop this ICE unit, which is expected to churn out a respectable 250 horsepower and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. Production will take place in China, but the catalytic converter won’t be installed until the engine arrives in Germany, ensuring it complies with Europe’s strict emissions standards. The transcontinental production process may seem a bit convoluted, but it reflects the increasingly globalized nature of automotive engineering.
Read: 2026 Mercedes CLA Previewed With Concept Car Looks
While you may think it sounds a little odd for the new-generation CLA to use an engine from Geely and Renault, it’s worth noting that Geely chief executive Li Shufu owns a 10% stake in Mercedes-Benz. Geely also operates a joint venture with the German carmaker to build Smart EVs. And for those thinking this is a new development, it’s worth remembering that both the first and second-generation CLA 180d models relied on diesel engines developed in collaboration with Renault and Nissan. This crossover DNA is practically baked into the CLA’s lineage.
According to CarNewsChina, some reports hint that this four-cylinder could come paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that integrates a starter motor directly into the transmission, making for a smoother, more efficient driving experience.
The imported engine isn’t the only Chinese tech making its way into the new CLA. The compact-sized sedan will also feature an advanced driver assistance system developed by Chinese startup Momenta. While the name of the brand may not ring a bell, Mercedes-Benz has been a backer of Momenta since 2017. It’s also received investment from GM, SAIC, and Yunfeng Capital, owned by billionaire businessman Jack Ma. Momenta’s system does not rely on high-definition maps and instead supports assisted driving in urban environments.
There’s plenty more to look forward to with the new CLA. In addition to featuring efficient four-cylinder engines, several all-electric versions will be produced around an 800-volt electrical architecture. A high-performance, AMG-branded version of the EV is also in the pipeline.
