It may seem a little old-fashioned to have an awards category for saloon cars, but the saloon has proven impressively resilient and adaptable.

Not the estate, not the MPV and not the SUV have been able to replace it, and in the EV era the aerodynamic advantages of a low-slung car with a teardrop rear end give it a head start in the range race.

It's no wonder, then, that Mercedes-Benz chose to launch its brand-new breakout EV platform with a compact saloon, the CLA.

Despite its somewhat traditional shape, it represents a rethink on how to make a successful European premium car. Although cars atop the MMA platform are also available with a petrol engine, they're designed as EVs first, which helps with packaging the battery and ancillary electronics.

As a result, the CLA not only looks and feels like a saloon in its profile and driving position but also offers distinguishing boot space and a roomy frunk.

The excellent aerodynamics and Mercedes' general commitment to EV technology pay dividends in other areas too. Thanks to 800V electricals, new inverters and a two-speed gearbox for the main drive motor on the rear axle, the electric CLA is very efficient, giving it class-leading range despite a relatively modest battery capacity.

All those rational qualities are great, but what makes the CLA endearing as well as competitive is how well it drives. There's a natural progression to all the controls that makes it smooth and intuitive to drive.

Meanwhile, Mercedes has also nailed the chassis set-up. With modern Mercedes models, you often need to spend big to get the version that makes good on the expectation of luxury, but whatever version of the CLA you pick, it will cruise quietly, with a supple ride and good isolation.

Rather than feel compromised, though, the handling feels nicely harmonious, with communicative steering, a keen front end and even some subtle adjustability on the power.

The CLA shows there's nothing old-fashioned about saloons. It's the embodiment of how they can be efficient, well packaged, comfortable and fun to drive.