Mar 19, 2025, 2:03 PM
Mercedes-Benz Phasing Out the A-Class by 2026
Mercedes-Benz has announced that the A-Class, its smallest model, will be discontinued by 2026, marking the end of a nearly 30-year run. According to Markus Schäfer, Mercedes' chief technical officer, the decision is driven by a strategic shift to focus on globally appealing models, targeting key markets like the USA and China. The A-Class, initially launched in 1997 as an innovative compact car, struggled with sales due to unconventional styling but evolved into a more conventional hatchback by its third generation in 2012. This version introduced powerful AMG variants, including the high-performance A45 S. Post-2026, the entry-level position will be taken by the third-generation CLA, though AMG versions may continue in this new guise. For enthusiasts, the era of the A-Class hot hatch is nearing its conclusion.