March 24, 2025 – Automotive news outlet Drive published a blog post today reporting that Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the discontinuation of the A-Class as part of its efforts to streamline its global product lineup. The current A-Class hatchback marks the final iteration, with no successor planned for the future.
Launched in 1997, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class has gone through four generations, with the latest one debuting in 2018 and receiving an update in 2023. According to Chief Technology Officer Markus Schafer, the brand requires models with broader global appeal. While hatchbacks are popular in Europe, they have failed to gain traction in the Chinese and American markets.
Sources indicate that Mercedes-Benz is reducing its compact car range from seven to four models, which will now comprise the CLA sedan, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB SUVs. Following the A-Class’s discontinuation, the CLA will take its place as the most affordable entry-level option in the Mercedes lineup.
Looking ahead, Mercedes plans to introduce the next-generation CLA in 2026, built on the all-new MMA electric platform, offering both hybrid and fully electric variants. Additionally, the company has scrapped plans for the MB.EA platform, originally intended for future EQE and EQS models, opting instead to utilize existing platforms.
