Mercedes-Benz is considering retiring the GLC coupe and the larger GLE coupe from its line-up as part of its ongoing model consolidation plans, according to officials of the German carmaker. These two combustion-engined coupé SUVs are said to be at the “top of the list” of models facing the chop as Mercedes continues the process of transitioning to a fully electric line-up.
- Mercedes is consolidating its line-up for future EVs
- To axe A-Class hatchback and B-Class MPV as well in future
The company has already removed the combustion-engined C-Class, E-Class and S-Class coupes, as well as the CLS and X-Class pick-up from its line-up in recent years. While original plans also called for discontinuing the A-Class hatchback and B-Class MPV by the end of 2024, they have been given a reprieve until 2026, when they are expected to be retired from the Mercedes line-up for good.
A source at Mercedes' headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, acknowledged an earlier report by German business publication Handelsblatt, which suggested that an announcement on further model consolidation is imminent. However, he refrained from commenting specifically on moves to retire the GLC and GLE coupes, saying: “Every current model is under review. It is a continuous process.”
While the existing second-generation GLC coupe is just in the first year of a planned seven-year model cycle, the recently facelifted GLE coupe was introduced in 2019.
Later this year, Mercedes plans to unveil the first of four models based on its new MMA platform: the third-generation CLA sedan. This new four-door model will be available in both pure-electric and combustion-engine forms, with successor models for the CLA Shooting Brake, EQA, and EQB set to join in 2025.
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