Mercedes-Benz Model Names: What's the Difference?

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe  

Whether you love Mercedes-Benz vehicles for their performance, luxury, or timeless style, you've probably noticed that their models follow a predictable, if somewhat mysterious, naming convention. If you've ever wondered how Mercedes-Benz names their vehicles, read on—the team at Fletcher Jones Automotive Group has compiled this explainer to help you make sense of the model names and numbers in our new vehicle lineup.

 

Mercedes-Benz: Core Models and Modifiers

Mercedes-Benz has six core models that will always show up in a model name—though the B Class is not available in North America. That leaves five core models of various sizes and capabilities, which we'll discuss below.

To modify these core model letters and provide more information to San Diego drivers, Mercedes-Benz adds prefixes depending on the vehicle's build style:

  • GL: SUV models like GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, and GLS

  • CL: Four-door coupes, including the CLA and CLS

  • SL: Roadster vehicles like the SL Roadster

  • EQ: Mercedes-Benz All-Electric vehicles, including the EQB, EQE, and EQS sedans and SUVs

Mercedes-Benz Model Names: Sedans & Coupes

The core model names designating sedans and coupes in the Mercedes-Benz lineup are A, C, E, and S:

  • A-Class: A subcompact luxury sedan or hatchback

  • C-Class: A compact luxury sedan, coupe, or cabriolet

  • E-Class: A midsize luxury sedan, coupe, or cabriolet

  • S-Class: A full-size luxury sedan, coupe, or cabriolet

As you can see, each model increases in size, power, and features, from the A-Class to the top-of-the-line S-Class.

Mercedes SUV Model Nomenclature

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the G-Wagen, is a masterclass in design, power, and off-roading fun. It proved so successful that Mercedes-Benz named all the SUVs they built afterward with GL, in tribute to this flagship SUV:

  • G-Class: Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury off-road SUV

Mercedes-Benz AMG® Model Names & Meanings

Finally, you might see the letters AMG® gracing the names of some models in our lineup. AMG stands for Aufecht, Melcher, and Großaspach—the two engineers Aufecht and Melcher who designed the legendary engine that bears their name, and the birth city of Aufecht, Großaspach. If you see AMG® in a Mercedes-Benz name, you can trust that it will provide heart-pounding performance on every Orange County trip.

Find Your Mercedes-Benz at Fletcher Jones Automotive Group

No matter what you're looking for, there's a Mercedes-Benz model that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Peruse our new vehicle inventory to find the one you love, then contact our team to set up a test drive.

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