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Mercedes confirms plans for a new entry-level model
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a fresh approach to its compact line-up: instead of the CLA taking over as the brand’s entry-level car after the A‑Class is phased out, Mercedes is reportedly planning a new, smaller crossover to fill that role. The announcement came directly from a senior executive and points to a strategy built around the automaker’s MMA architecture — a platform designed for compact, electrified models.
What Mercedes has said — and what it means
Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales, told German magazine Automobilwoche the company will expand its model range on the MMA platform after the CLA. "We will be introducing further models based on our new MMA architecture after the CLA," Geisen said. He added, "Believe me, in the long run, there will be an entry-level model in the world of Mercedes-Benz." That comment appears to confirm both the platform and the intent: Mercedes still wants an accessible model for new buyers, but the form factor may change.
Why this is notable
Until now the expectation was that the CLA — a sleeker, coupe-like compact — would become Mercedes’ entry point. The new plan suggests the automaker prefers a crossover silhouette for broader market appeal and to better target younger buyers who favor elevated ride height and practicality. If the rumours are accurate, this model will slot beneath the GLA and GLB, creating a new, compact tier inside Mercedes’ SUV/crossover family.
Target customers and market positioning
Positioned as a tiny crossover, the likely buyer is urban and young — someone seeking a premium badge, compact dimensions, and affordable ownership costs. Mercedes aims to keep price accessible compared with existing compact models: the current A‑Class hatch starts at roughly €34,250 in Germany, while the electric CLA begins well above €53,000. Industry expectations put the new base crossover nearer the €30,000 mark (around $35,000), or possibly lower, to entice first-time Mercedes owners.
- Platform: MMA architecture (shared DNA with the latest CLA)
- Positioning: Below GLA and GLB, entry-level Mercedes crossover
- Target price: ~€30,000 or less, depending on trims and powertrains
- Audience: Younger, urban buyers and those seeking an affordable premium car
Powertrain and technical expectations
Because the new model will be built on the same MMA underpinnings as the CLA, Mercedes can offer several powertrain options. Expect a flexible range that may include small combustion engines, mild-hybrid or plug-in-hybrid variants to keep entry prices low and emissions down, and at least one fully electric variant to meet EV demand and regulatory targets.
This flexibility will be key to global markets where EV adoption rates differ. Lower trims could rely on downsized petrol engines or mild-hybrid setups to hit sub‑€30k pricing, while higher-spec lines — or a dedicated EV sibling — would deliver zero-emission driving and modern charging capabilities.
Design, size and rivals
Exact styling remains speculative, but a compact crossover with Mercedes’ current design language seems likely: upright proportions compared with the CLA, prominent grille or closed EV face, and interior tech borrowed from larger Mercedes models. Competitors will include premium compact crossovers from Audi, BMW, and Volvo — and an affordable Mercedes in this segment could reshape entry-level luxury competition.
Potential rivals:
- Audi Q2 / smaller Audi EVs
- BMW X1 or a future sub‑X1 offering
- Volvo’s compact crossovers and entry-level electrics
What’s still uncertain
Several key points remain open: an official name, exact launch timing, and the detailed powertrain lineup. Mercedes has historically used the letter "G" for its crossovers and SUVs (GLA, GLB, GLC, etc.), which raises questions about whether the new model will adopt a G-prefix or a different naming approach. The A‑Class is widely expected to be discontinued around 2028, while the B‑Class will be retired earlier, in 2026 — so the timeline for the replacement dovetails with those phase-outs but lacks firm dates.
Key takeaways
- Mercedes confirms plans to expand its MMA-based lineup beyond the CLA.
- The likely replacement for the A‑Class is a small crossover positioned under the GLA/GLB.
- Expect multiple powertrains: ICE, hybrid and at least one EV variant.
- Price ambition is around €30,000 to attract younger, entry-level buyers.
The strategic shift highlights Mercedes’ broader focus: electrified flexibility, crossover demand, and keeping the brand accessible to new customers. While many specifics remain speculative, the move signals that Mercedes wants a modern, compact gateway model — one that blends premium branding with practical, tailored powertrains for diverse global markets. Stay tuned: more concrete details on name, specs, and launch dates should emerge as Mercedes progresses with its MMA roadmap.
Source: autoevolution
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