Mercedes-Benz’s Chief Technology Officer, Markus Schäfer, has officially put an end to speculation surrounding the future of the A-Class. He confirmed that the current fourth-generation A-Class will not be renewed beyond 2026, marking the end of the popular model.
A-Class on Borrowed Time
Rumors about the A-Class being phased out have been circulating since 2022. However, a mid-cycle refresh that same year provided reassurance that the model would continue production until at least 2026. By that time, the A-Class would have been in production for eight years.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius had previously stated that the brand aims to move away from competing with high-volume manufacturers, emphasizing its focus on luxury rather than mass-market appeal.
Strategic Streamlining of the Line-Up
Speaking at the unveiling of the new CLA, Schäfer reiterated that simplifying the company’s model lineup is a key priority. This strategy will see both the A-Class and B-Class discontinued, likely in early 2026, as part of a broader effort to reduce the company’s portfolio from 33 to 14 models.
This shift has already led to the discontinuation of the CLS, the merger of the C-Class and E-Class coupe and cabriolet models into the new CLE range, and the upcoming phase-out of the entire EQ brand of electric vehicles. Additionally, the coupe variants of the GLC and GLE, along with the C-Class Estate, are rumored to face elimination in the coming years.
Schäfer explained that global market demands influenced this decision, stating, “We need models that work all over the world, including China and the USA. I know that the hatchback is a favorite in Europe, but it was not part of the plans, and we had to make choices, even difficult ones.” He further emphasized that reducing model complexity was essential, leading to the decision to streamline the compact car lineup from seven to four models.
Key Features of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Turbocharged petrol and diesel engines with hybrid variants |
| Transmission | 7-speed and 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Interior | Luxurious cabin with premium materials and ambient lighting |
| Infotainment | MBUX system with voice control and dual screens |
| Safety | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control |
| Fuel Efficiency | Highly efficient with mild-hybrid technology to enhance economy |
| Performance | Sporty AMG variants available for enhanced driving experience |
| Sustainability | Focus on hybrid and electric powertrains to meet environmental regulations |
The “Baby G” as a Successor
Confirming that a new “baby” G-Class will serve as the successor to the A-Class, B-Class, and A-Class Sedan, Schäfer noted that this model will not use the CLA’s MMA platform. Instead, it will be built on a unique architecture designed to accommodate the off-road capabilities expected from a G-Class vehicle.
“For the baby G, we will make a specific [platform]. The MMA would not allow us to mount the wheels of the diameter necessary for a model of this kind, nor to give it the necessary ground clearance,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the future of the GLA and GLB remains uncertain, as these models could potentially overlap with the upcoming “baby” G-Class and affect its market performance once production begins in the next year.
The End of an Era
For now, the A-Class continues to be in production, but industry experts anticipate that Mercedes-Benz may start phasing out certain variants in the coming months. After four generations and nearly 30 years, the A-Class will soon take its place in the brand’s history as Mercedes-Benz moves toward a more refined and focused vehicle lineup.
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