Car & Driver talked to several top managers who confirmed that the company is going to retire coupes, wagons, and the CLS, in order to streamline its offerings and make way for electric vehicles.
It is not a surprise that Mercedes-Benz is moving away from coupes and wagons as it has already discontinued the S-Class Coupe and Convertible and plans to retire the CLS in 2024. The AMG GT 4 Door is also set to be dropped shortly thereafter. Crossover coupes won't be spared either, as the next-generation GLC and GLE are expected to be phased out in the future. Additionally, the C-Class Estate wagon will be retired after 2028, and the Shooting Brake variant of the next-generation CLA will be the company's last offering of this kind.
According to one senior official, “At the end of the day, we simply don’t need estate cars or underperforming two-door offerings to boost volumes.” The focus is on electric vehicles and space and time, with contemporary luxury being the driving force. However, fans of the brand can expect to see some exciting new models in the future, including a rugged GLG SUV in 2026 and a Maybach V-Class.
Future electric models from Mercedes-Benz are expected to have a range of up to 500 miles and fast recharging times, thanks to a 270 kW DC fast charging capability. The company's strategy is aimed at cutting costs and maximizing profits, but it remains to be seen how fans of Mercedes' classic coupes, wagons, and CLS will react to this news.
Source: Car & Driver
