Mercedes-Benz to discontinue A-Class by 2026 as part of lineup restructuring

Jay Dinesh March 19, 2025

Mercedes-Benz A 250 e Hatchback: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 1,1-0,8 l/100 km, electric energy consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 17.0-15.0 kWh/100km, CO2 emissions combined, weighted (WLTP) 25-18 g/km [2]; exterior: mountain grey, AMG line[2] The stated figures are the measured "WLTP CO₂ figures" in accordance with Art. 2 No. 3 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated on the basis of these figures. Electric energy consumption was determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151. / Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon; exterior: patagonia red MANUFAKTUR; progressive line Mercedes-Benz A 250 e Hatchback: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 1,1-0,8 l/100 km, electric energy consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 17.0-15.0 kWh/100km, CO2 emissions combined, weighted (WLTP) 25-18 g/km [2]; exterior: mountain grey, AMG line[2] The stated figures are the measured "WLTP CO₂ figures" in accordance with Art. 2 No. 3 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated on the basis of these figures. Electric energy consumption was determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151. / Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon; exterior: patagonia red MANUFAKTUR; progressive line

Mercedes-Benz to discontinue A-Class by 2026 as part of lineup restructuring

Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed that the current generation of the A-Class will be its last, with production set to conclude by 2026. This decision aligns with the company’s strategy to streamline its compact car lineup from seven to four models, focusing on global market demands and reducing complexity.

The compact models that will continue include the CLA (available in sedan and shooting brake variants), GLA, and GLB SUVs. Additionally, a new compact SUV, referred to as the “baby G-Class,” is in development and will utilize a bespoke platform to ensure off-road capabilities, distinct from the MMA platform used by other compact models.

The A-Class, introduced in 1997, has undergone four generations, evolving from a tall, minivan-like design to a more conventional hatchback. Despite its popularity, especially in Europe, Mercedes-Benz is shifting focus towards models with broader global appeal, particularly in markets like China and the USA, where hatchbacks are less favored.

This move is part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader strategy to prioritize profitability over sales volume, concentrating on high-end luxury models such as the S-Class and G-Class. The company plans to reduce its compact car offerings and invest more in electric vehicles, anticipating that plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles will account for half of its global sales by 2030.

As the automotive industry undergoes a significant transformation towards electrification, Mercedes-Benz is adapting its product lineup to meet changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements, marking the end of the A-Class era.