You can buy a brand new Mercedes Benz for less than the average new car price.
Luxury cars aren’t cheap, but how will tariffs affect the car market?
Tariffs are impacting every market. The answer to your question varies greatly depending on which luxury automaker you ask.
straight arrow news
- Mercedes-Benz produces several competitive cars and SUVs that compete with the best vehicles in their respective segments.
- By 2025, a single Mercedes-Benz car will be more affordable than the average car.
Can you buy a new Mercedes-Benz for less than the average new car price?
According to the personal finance site MoneyGeek.com, the average price of a new car is about $48,841. Mercedes-Benz isn’t known for its affordable prices, but some new cars and SUVs sell for less than the average new car price in 2025.
A luxury small Mercedes-Benz car is surprisingly affordable compared to current new cars. Is it worth considering, and how does it compare to its main rivals in its segment?
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA starts under $43,000
The Mercedes-Benz 2026 CLA 250 Coupe has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $42,750. Equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine with mild hybrid drive as standard. This powertrain makes small cars slightly more efficient compared to typical gasoline engines.
The CLA 250 Coupe produces 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It gets 31 miles per gallon combined. The Mercedes-Benz CLA has a fuel tank capacity of 13.5 gallons. The range on a full tank of gas is approximately 418 miles, which is a decent range for this segment.
Standard equipment for Mercedes-Benz CLA
From technology to comfort, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA includes a number of standard features that make it a great value for your money.
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Standard Equipment
- MB-Tex upholstery
- heated power side mirrors
- illumination entry system
- 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display and digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Mercedes’ most affordable car for 2025 also has several standard safety features, including active brake assist, blind spot assist, and an advanced tire pressure monitoring system. It includes luxury touches not standard on most mainstream vehicles, such as MB-Tex upholstery and heated power side mirrors.
This luxury car also comes standard with a large 10.3-inch infotainment screen. How does the new CLA Coupe differ from other luxury coupes in its segment?
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA vs. Rivals
Key competitors for the Mercedes-Benz CLA include the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Audi A3, and Cadillac CT4. Mercedes’ affordable coupe outperforms many rivals in style, standard technology, and ride comfort.
The Audi A3 may be the best overall affordable luxury car, as it combines engaging driving dynamics with a luxurious interior. The sedan body style makes it easier to accommodate multiple passengers, making it more practical.
The Cadillac CT4 handles well and is a great choice for driving enthusiasts who value driving experience over comfort. BMW’s 2 Series Gran Coupe is a solid choice for anyone interested in an entry-level BMW that represents the spirit of the brand without breaking the bank.
Should you buy the most affordable Mercedes-Benz car in 2025?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA comes with many attractive features and decent performance specs, but it’s not the undisputed best model in its segment. The 2026 BMW 228 Gran Coupe is a more affordable German luxury car ($39,600). Additionally, BMW’s luxury car is slightly more powerful than the CLA and has better driving dynamics.
If you’re looking for an entry-level Mercedes vehicle with great features and a refined cabin, the CLA is a solid choice. If you want the best affordable luxury coupe on the market in 2025, you could instead enjoy the CLA’s BMW rival, the 228 Gran Coupe.
