Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs BMW 1 Series
What's the difference?

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

$66,500 - $91,300

2026 price

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BMW 1 Series

$51,990 - $89,900

2025 price

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Summary

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

2025 BMW 1 Series

By James Cleary

By Chris Thompson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.5L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

5.4L/100km (combined)

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Seating

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Likes

Refinement
Efficiency
Safety

Driving dynamics and performance
Front-row layout
Pricing remains competitive

Dislikes

Pricey servicing
Modest road feel
No physical spare tyre

New face might divide opinion
Second-row amenities lacking
A tad thirsty

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Summary

Mercedes-Benz has shifted its CLA compact coupe-style sedan from support player to headline act with the introduction of this all-new, third-generation version.

It exemplifies the German giant’s multi-powertrain approach with an expansion of the local line-up from two pure-combustion variants to a five-model range comprising three hybrid and two pure-electric options.

CarsGuide was invited to sample the hybrid version of the newcomer (the EVs arrive in July), so stay with us to see if this sleek four-door is your kind of premium European compact sedan.

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2025 BMW 1 Series Summary

Can you believe the 1 Series is already in its fourth generation? It might not look incredibly like it, because this new car looks a little like the third.

But it’s been more than half a decade since the F40 1 Series debuted, so BMW decided it was already time for a new kid on the block. Meet the F70.

It’s just landed in Australia and it promises new-gen tech and features compared with its predecessor. We checked out BMW’s new baby at its Australian launch to find out if it delivers.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class 2025 BMW 1 Series

Verdict

The broadening of the CLA’s scope in this third-gen version puts it a step ahead of key rivals and raises the compact sedan’s prominence in the three-pointed star’s local line-up. Its combination of quality design, performance and efficiency is compelling. And we’ll drive the battery-electric version as soon as it lands.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

A brief dalliance with the 1 Series has left me impressed, if wanting to spend more time with it to get a better assessment of the day-to-day liveability of BMW’s entry-level model.

It’s a compelling offering if you’re after a premium small car, and even without the performance of the M135, the 118 is feature-packed.

Keeping pricing competitive should help the 1 Series buck the trend of buyers opting for small SUVs, but ultimately it’s just refreshing to see BMW putting effort into keeping a hatchback relevant (and up-to-date).

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs BMW 1 Series What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs BMW 1 Series
What's the difference?