Mercedes Benz: The Complete Buyer’s Guide
Mercedes-Benz is known for luxury cars of all types. Sub-compacts, SUVs, and sedans are a few offerings that go by letters and names. This naming system confuses many buyers.
Multiple vehicle names start with the letter G; each name varies based on engine size, drivetrain, and body style. As the letters move further into the alphabet, the vehicles get bigger and more expensive. Larger numbers indicate more powerful engines, so they come with a higher price tag.
Model numbers no longer correspond to engine volumes, making this naming system even more confusing. Today, smaller engines provide more horsepower, thanks to turbochargers and hybrid technology. The following guide will help eliminate this confusion by providing an overview of the different terms and options Mercedes-Benz offers. Use this guide when visiting north side auto to narrow the available choices.
Sub-Brands
Mercedes offers several sub-brands. EQ models indicate electric vehicles, while G models are former G-Class vehicles. Mercedes-Benz and AMG partnered to create high-performance vehicles with sporty, aggressive styling. Mercedes-Maybach vehicles are a new luxury sub-brand, and drivers will pay more for these models. Mythos vehicles will be reserved for collectors but have yet to launch.
Terms to Know
Mercedes uses certain terms to describe its vehicles. 4MATIC refers to all-wheel-drive vehicles. When a plus sign is added to this term, the company refers to all-wheel-drive on its AMG models. A cabriolet is a four-seat convertible, while a roadster is a convertible with two seats. Coupes come with two doors or four, and the company has a lineup of SUVs. If the vehicle model denotes EQ boost, the company has added a hybrid system to one of its turbocharged engines to allow the car to accelerate smoothly.
C-Class
C-Class vehicles are compact sedans, coupes, and cabriolets. Drivers may choose the C 300 4Matic, an AMG C 43, or a standard C300. Four engine options, all of which are turbocharged, are currently offered on these models.
CLA
Drivers looking for an entry-level Mercedes-Benz coupe should check out the second-generation CLA. Launched in 2019, this vehicle comes in three versions. However, Mercedes also offers two AMG versions.
CLE
The CLE lineup combines the C-Class and E-Class coupes. Two powertrains are offered, and this vehicle is sportier and more luxurious than the models it is based on. A convertible is expected to launch soon.
CLS
Anyone in the market for a sporty coupe should check out the CLS-Class. Introduced in 2018, this vehicle is exiting the market. Now is the time to pick one up before it is only available on the second-hand market.
E-Class
The E-Class is a Mercedes mid-sized option new for 2024. Choose an all-terrain wagon or four-door sedan. The integrated starter generator provides additional power.
EQE
Individuals in the market for an electric vehicle can get the E-class electric model known as the EQE. This model comes in both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive versions, with the rear-wheel version getting up to 305 miles before it must be recharged. An AMG model is also available and can go from zero to 60 mph in just over three seconds.
EQS
The EQS is another electric vehicle offered by the manufacturer. Drivers may choose from three versions with a dedicated EV platform. This car stands out because of its low drag coefficient, which remains the lowest of any production vehicle available today.
S-Class
The company’s flagship sedan is the full-size S-Class. There are three options to select from, all of which come equipped with 4Matic AWD. Drivers should check out the Mercedes-Maybach version, as it embodies the luxury this manufacturer is known for.
AMG GT
Drivers who love high-performance vehicles like the Porsche 911 need to check out the Mercedes AMG GT. This all-new version is only available as a two-door coupe this year. The roadster and four-door coupe are no longer offered. However, buyers can choose from two engines and have the ride of their lives, as this vehicle can do 196 miles per hour.
AMG SL Roadster
The SL Roadster was reintroduced in 2022 and is a hard-edged sports car. Select from two V8 all-wheel-drive engines and take off. Thanks to the pared-down performance tech, it’s an affordable ride.
GLA-Class
Drivers in the market for a subcompact SUV should test drive the GLA-Class. This model has been updated for 2024. Depending on their needs, buyers may choose from an all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive version.
GLB-Class
The GLB is Mercedes’s version of the compact crossover. It also has a new version for 2024. As with the GLA-Class, the GLB comes in front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Buyers may choose a third-row seat to hold more people.
EQB
Imagine a compact electric crossover. The EQB is this vehicle, and it travels 245 miles before it needs to be recharged. Unlike the GLB, this model is only available in front-wheel drive, but buyers may also choose one that seats up to seven people.
GLC-Class
Drivers who love the C-Class sedan may want to upgrade to the compact SUV version of this popular car. The GLC is now Mercedes’s best-selling model in America. Choose from a traditional SUV or one that resembles a coupe. The manufacturer is currently working on an AMG version of this model.
GLE-Class
The midsize vehicle is the GLE-Class. Its roots are in the M-Class, the company’s first luxury SUV. Choose from several engines and five- or seven-seat options. The base model has rear-wheel drive, while the AMG version has a swoopy roofline.
EQE SUV
Who says electric vehicles must be cars? Mercedes offers the EQU electric SUV based on the company’s dedicated EV platform. This model seats five and can go 270 miles before needing to be charged when the rear-wheel-drive version is purchased.
GLS-Class
Some families need more space in their SUV and find the GLS-Class meets their needs. This model is similar to the S-Class sedan, which drivers love. All versions feature the company’s 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
EQS SUV
If the EQE is too small, check out the EQS, a full-size electric SUV. Buyers may opt for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and this vehicle comfortably seats up to seven people. The rear-wheel-drive model has an electric range of 305 miles.
G-Class
Last but not least is the G-Wagen. This midsize vehicle comes in two versions, one of which is a high-performance AMG. The AMG is highly rated for its all-around capabilities but lacks fuel efficiency.