This is Mercedes-Benz Lineup: EXPLAINED
Mercedes-Benz reshuffled their lineup several years ago. Long running nameplates like the GLK, CL, and ML have been phased out in favor of new models. The switch was the subject of much scrutiny in the automotive press when it was announced, but it turns out that the new naming scheme is actually more coherent than their previous one. In this video, we’ll run through their model lineup, discuss their naming scheme, and delve into their high-performance AMG trims.
This episode will be structured a bit differently than the others in this series. Mercedes’ lineup consists of a few core models and several others that branch off of them. We’ll cover them in blocks and sweep up any exceptions after the fact.
The Mercedes A-Class is a subcompact hatchback that isn’t currently sold in the united states. At a price of 22,745 British Pounds, or just about $28,000, the A-Class competes with the BMW 1 Series, Volkswagen Golf, and Audi A3.
The A Class also has a sedan version for those who'd prefer a trunk over a hatch. This variant serves as the entry point for the brand in the US, as it's the least expensive car in their portfolio. It competes squarely with the Audi A3 Sedan, but it may also be cross-shopped with the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.
You can think of the CLA as the A-Class’ sportier, less practical stablemate. Its major distinguishing feature is the swept back roofline. It trades in interior ergonomics for a sportier appearance. The CLA starts at 36,650. It’s positioned against the Sedan’s rivals as a sportier alternative.
The GLA is due for a redesign for 2021, but first let’s talk about the outgoing model. It’s not so much of an SUV as it is an A-class hatch on stilts. Both cars look different at the front and rear, but they’re nearly a reflection of one other on the profile view. The GLA starts at $36,230, and it competes with the BMW X1 and Audi A1. The 2021 model adopts the CLA’s headlights and replaces the old rear lights with thinner units.
The S-Class is the largest, most luxurious sedan in their standard range. At a price of $94,250, the car competes with the BMW 7 series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS. The S-Class’ DRL signature consists of three strips packed tightly together. The character line on the E-class goes through the door handles while the one on the S-Class tapers off before doing the same. Lastly, the tail lights on the S-Class are a touch more vertical.
This Car is also available as a coupe and convertible. They cost 130150 and 138600 respectively. You can think of this range in the same vein as the discontinued CL class.
The GLS is a full size luxury SUV priced at 75950. It competes with the bmw x7 and Lincoln navigator. Its headlights conform more uniformly to the grille than the GLE. The GLS’s window extends to the rear wheel while the GLE’s stops about a quarter of the way through. Lastly, the lights at the rear of the GLS aren’t quite as angular.
There are a few models in their range that don't conform to this naming structure. The G is an off road-focused suv that is aimed at vehicles like the range rover. But at a price of nearly $131,000, what are the odds it actually takes a wheel off of the asphalt?
The CLS is a 4 door coupe that competes with the Audi A7 and bmw 8 series gran coupe. It costs 69950. It looks nearly indistinguishable from the A Class at the front. From straight on, I can spot exactly two differences. The CLS has turn indicators mounted on the rear view mirrors. The lines coming from the corners of the CLS’s lower clip extend further out. It is much easier to tell them apart from the side and rear, however. The CLS has more rear overhang and it also has thinner tail lights. The license plate on the A Sedan is positioned in between the tail lights while the one on the CLS is set on the same level as the reflectors. The story is reversed when comparing the CLS to the CLA. Both cars look similar when viewed from behind. The CLA has slightly smaller intakes, brightwork surrounding the exhaust tips, and lights that kink down a touch before raising to go through the trunk. Up front, the CLS has triangular headlights while the CLAs have a slight “hook” at the bottom.
The SL is a $91,000 grand touring hardtop convertible. This is the final 2 door in their lineup, making for a total of 10 coupes and convertibles across 7 model lines. Let’s take a moment to explain where each of them are positioned.
As stated previously, the C-class coupe and convertible are direct competitors to the BMW 4 series and Audi A5 lines. The E-Class variants don’t have direct competition, instead serving as a stopgap between the C and S lines.