The 2026 Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 S Final Edition marks the final bow for the second-generation AMG CLA 45 S before Mercedes-AMG transitions to its next-generation lineup. Celebrated for its blistering performance, aggressive styling, and track-ready handling, the CLA 45 S Final Edition is more than just a performance coupe it’s a collector’s item for enthusiasts worldwide. Limited in production and packed with exclusive features, this model embodies the pinnacle of AMG engineering in the compact sedan segment.
For those exploring Mercedes-Benz’s broader performance heritage, you can also explore how Mercedes‑Benz reinvents grand touring with the new SL‑Class.
The Story Behind the Final Edition
The CLA 45 S has long been a standout in the hot compact market, offering a rare blend of everyday usability and race-car-like performance. As production of the second-generation 118-series CLA Coupe draws to a close, Mercedes-AMG commemorates this era with the Final Edition. This special release celebrates the engineering, design, and driving excitement that the CLA 45 S has delivered since its debut. It also highlights AMG’s legacy in producing performance sedans and compact coupes capable of rivaling much larger sports cars.
With limited units set to hit select markets globally, the Final Edition ensures that enthusiasts can own a piece of AMG history before the next-generation CLA arrives.
Design & Exterior Highlights
Mercedes-AMG has made sure the Final Edition is unmistakable on the road. Its exterior styling emphasizes exclusivity, featuring MANUFAKTUR Mountain Grey Magno and Night Black Uni paint options paired with striking black-and-yellow 45 S graphics. The coupe’s aggressive stance is enhanced by AMG-specific aerodynamic components, including optional Night and Aerodynamics Packages, which refine airflow and add visual flair.
The Final Edition also showcases bespoke 19-inch forged wheels, bright yellow brake calipers, a unique fuel cap design, and special Final Edition badging across the exterior. Combined, these features create a car that commands attention at every angle, signaling both performance and rarity.
Interior Enhancements & Cabin Experience
Step inside, and the cabin reinforces the Final Edition’s exclusive character. AMG Performance seats in MB‑Tex with microfiber inserts feature yellow contrast stitching, providing firm support for spirited driving while exuding sport luxury. Signature 45 S Final Edition badging appears throughout the interior, including illuminated door sills, adding a touch of exclusivity.
Yellow accents extend across seat belts, center console trim, and steering wheel stitching, enhancing the sporty theme. Tech amenities such as dual 11.9-inch MBUX displays, advanced driver assistance systems, and premium sound options ensure that the interior remains as comfortable and modern as it is performance-focused.
Powertrain & Performance
At the heart of the 2026 CLA 45 S Final Edition is the AMG M139 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, one of the most powerful four-cylinder engines in production. It delivers 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, matched with an 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT dual-clutch transmission. This engine-transmission pairing propels the car from 0–60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.
The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system features fully variable torque distribution and AMG TORQUE CONTROL, ensuring precise handling and cornering agility. Drivers can select from multiple driving modes, including Sport, Sport+, Race, and Individual, tailoring the driving dynamics to their preference. The car also offers drift mode, a feature that allows skilled drivers to experience rear-wheel-biased dynamics for maximum fun on track or open roads.
Driving Impressions & Real-World Use
Expect the CLA 45 S Final Edition to feel sharp, responsive, and balanced. The turbocharged engine delivers instantaneous power, while the dual-clutch transmission provides seamless gear changes. On winding roads, torque vectoring and performance suspension ensure minimal body roll and precise cornering, comparable to larger, more expensive sports sedans.
Compared to the standard CLA 45 S, the Final Edition’s additional aerodynamic tweaks, reduced weight in select areas, and unique chassis calibration provide a slightly more aggressive and engaging driving experience. It remains practical enough for daily use, offering decent cargo space and comfort for passengers, while standing out as a true performance machine.
Global Market Availability & Production
The CLA 45 S Final Edition will be available in select markets, including the United States, Europe, and Asia, with production strictly limited to preserve exclusivity. Early 2026 marks the expected release, and each unit carries unique Final Edition identifiers for authenticity. Collectors and enthusiasts will find this model particularly desirable due to its combination of rarity, AMG performance, and design features that are unavailable on standard CLA 45 S models.
The limited production ensures that it will remain a sought-after model for years, appealing to both drivers and collectors who value performance, design, and exclusivity in equal measure.
Pricing Overview
Pricing for the Final Edition reflects its exclusive nature. In the United States, the expected MSRP is approximately $70,000, with variations across markets depending on taxes, fees, and optional packages. Globally, the CLA 45 S Final Edition remains competitive against rivals such as the Audi RS3 and BMW M2, delivering higher tech sophistication and the AMG driving experience for a similar price bracket.
Optional packages, bespoke finishes, and customization can raise the final cost, but each vehicle’s limited nature ensures its value is preserved over time.
Specifications & Key Entities
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L M139 Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 416 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Drivetrain | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ AWD |
| 0–60 mph | 4.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
Powertrain & Performance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive Modes | Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race, Individual |
| Torque Vectoring | AMG TORQUE CONTROL |
| Drift Mode | Yes |
| Suspension | AMG Ride Control performance suspension |
Fuel Economy / Efficiency
| Region | City / Hwy / Combined |
|---|---|
| U.S. (est.) | 20 / 28 / 23 mpg |
| Europe (WLTP est.) | 9.0 / 6.5 / 7.5 L/100km |
Dimensions & Weight
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,688 mm (184.4 in) |
| Width | 1,852 mm (72.9 in) |
| Height | 1,439 mm (56.6 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,729 mm (107.5 in) |
| Curb Weight | 1,635 kg (3,604 lbs) |
| Cargo Volume | 455 L (16 cu ft) |
Trims & Pricing (Global Overview)
| Market | Trim / Base Price |
|---|---|
| U.S. | CLA 45 S Final Edition ~$70,000 |
| Europe | CLA 45 S Final Edition €75,000–€78,000 |
| Asia (selected markets) | CLA 45 S Final Edition ~$72,000 |
FAQ
Q: What makes the 2026 Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 S Final Edition special?
A: It is a limited-edition model with exclusive design cues, performance enhancements, and the final iteration of the second-generation CLA 45 S.
Q: How many Final Edition units will be made?
A: Mercedes-AMG has not disclosed exact production numbers, but it is limited to select global markets to maintain exclusivity.
Q: What performance upgrades does it have over the standard CLA 45 S?
A: While the engine output remains similar, the Final Edition includes aerodynamic enhancements, unique suspension tuning, and visual upgrades that provide a slightly more aggressive and track-focused experience.
Q: Will the Final Edition be available globally?
A: It will be offered in select markets, including the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia.
Q: How does the Final Edition compare to rivals like Audi RS3 or BMW M2?
A: The CLA 45 S Final Edition offers comparable or superior technology, aggressive styling, and AMG-specific driving dynamics, making it a strong competitor in the high-performance compact segment.
Conclusion
The 2026 Mercedes‑AMG CLA 45 S Final Edition is a fitting farewell to one of AMG’s most celebrated compact performance sedans. Combining exclusive design, formidable performance, and AMG’s engineering excellence, it delivers both collectible appeal and exhilarating driving experience. For enthusiasts, it represents the last chance to own a piece of CLA 45 S history before the next generation introduces a new chapter for Mercedes-AMG compact performance cars.
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