CLA-Class

Segment
Sedan

When MBUSA decided to cut the A-Class sedan from its lineup, we can't say we were disappointed. With underwhelming build quality and a subpar driving experience, it wasn't worthy of wearing the iconic three-pointed star. Despite being a rather middling package, the A-Class enjoys great popularity in other markets (especially in hatchback guise).

But not even that can save it from the automotive grim reaper. A recent report from Germany's Handelsblatt indicates Mercedes-Benz will kill the premium sedan/hatch and its MPV sibling, the B-Class, in 2025. This is part of the company's new business strategy; where it previously focused on high sales figures, Mercedes is now looking to increase profits by selling even more luxury cars.

The lineup will be separated into Entry Luxury, Core Luxury, and Top-End Luxury. We've already got a taste of what to expect from the new Top-End Luxury class with the Mythos S, the first of many exclusive motor vehicles to come.

Following a regrettable merger with DaimlerChrysler, Mercedes-Benz sought to dominate the sales charts by rapidly expanding its lineup. Traditional nameplates such as the S-Class and E-Class were quickly joined by the terrible first-generation M-Class, the troubled V-Class, and, of course, the A-Class.

The idea of offering something to suit everyone's needs quickly tripped the company up. In a matter of a decade, Mercedes-Benz lost its reputation for quality. It seems the automaker is returning to its roots, by catering to the whims of the upper echelons. Maybach's current success is proof this is working.

However, that's not to say the brand is completely abandoning the entry-level luxury segment. Benz may shuffle the A and B off their mortal coils, but the report indicates the CLA, GLA, and GLB are here to stay.

Their replacements will be different from what we're used to. The new MMA platform will underpin the company's latest compact vehicles and will replace the existing MFA2 architecture. CEO Ola Kallenius has made some big claims about MMA, noting it will introduce new standards. Described as "electric first," the platform will also be able to accommodate ICE powertrains.

"The entry point to the Mercedes brand in the future will be a different one than today," he said at the time. Frankly, we're a little relieved by that. A brief stint in both the A-Class and B-Class will quickly identify both vehicles as cop-outs; money makers designed to draw in buyers with the Mercedes-Benz badge. All this did was dilute the prestige of the brand.

From a business perspective, it also makes sense. Profit margins are far higher on top-end vehicles and wasting time with smaller cars just doesn't make sense for a brand that wants to attract buyers used to shopping in the ultra-luxury segment.