Mercedes-Benz Has Decided to Discontinue the A-Class

If you’re a fan of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, then you’ll probably be disappointed to hear that it will be discontinued following the 2022 model year. The compact sedan is currently the price leader in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, making it the ideal option for car buyers who are transitioning to a luxury car brand. Fortunately, the similarly affordable CLA sedan and GLA crossover will still be around to meet the needs of drivers who prefer smaller vehicles. Let’s find out more about the departure of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

Why Did Mercedes-Benz Decide to Axe the A-Class?

Mercedes-Benz A-Class via MBUSA.com

When it was launched, the A-Class seized the entry-level position from the CLA, which is a sportier sedan model notable for its appearance in a 2013 Super Bowl ad. With a starting price below $30,000, the A-Class had the potential to appeal to young consumers and create a new generation of Mercedes-Benz fans. However, with consumers showing a growing preference for SUVs over sedans, the A-Class struggled against the GLA and GLB, even though it was the first Mercedes-Benz model to come with the high-tech MBUX system.

Mercedes-Benz made a statement saying that the decision to axe the A-Class was compatible with its continuous effort to streamline its product offering plan. The CLA will continue to be available for the time being. Competing in the same category as the A-Class, it’s expected to bring the company a more significant profit margin thanks to its higher price. Since the German automaker has yet to announce the end date of production in the U.S., the A-Class should be available at dealerships throughout the year.

Alternative Options to the A-Class

Although the A-Class will no longer be in production, there are other options for car drivers looking to make the move to a luxury brand. Mercedes-Benz offers 2 spectacular models that will meet the needs of drivers looking for a smaller car: the CLA sedan and the GLA crossover.

CLA

The Mercedes-Benz CLA will check all the boxes for drivers looking for an affordable luxury option. Starting at $39,350, the base CLA 250 boasts 221 HP with 25/36 MPG city/highway. For those looking for more power, the CLA 35 has 302 HP with 21/29 MPG. Finally, the CLA 45 tops them all with 382 HP and 20/28 MPG.

Even with their compact size, all vehicles in the CLA-Class have spacious interiors with plenty of legroom and cargo space. Legroom in the first and second rows comes out to 41.8 inches and 33.9 inches, while cargo space behind the second row comes out to 11.6 cubic feet.

The CLA comes with Mercedes-Benz’s usual twin-screen display and infotainment is displayed on a dash-mounted touchscreen. Base models start with 7-inch screens, with 10.3-inch screens available as an upgrade. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The operating system can be activated using voice commands or the touchpad on the center console.

GLA

For those looking for something a little bigger, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is a crossover that is based on the A-Class. The GLA is a more affordable option starting at $37,500. The GLA 250 comes with 221 HP and 24/34 MPG city/highway, making it an incredible combination of power and fuel economy.

The GLA’s larger size makes for a more comfortable ride. The GLA’s legroom in the first and second rows is 41 inches and 38 inches, and the cargo space behind the first and second rows comes out to 50.5 cubic feet and 15.4 cubic feet.

The GLA’s display and infotainment technology is similar to the CLA’s.  The default dual screens measure 7 inches, with option 10.3-inch screens as an upgrade. Infotainment is controlled by a touchscreen, a console-mounted touchpad, wheel-mounted buttons, or voice activation.

The 2022 model year is your last opportunity to purchase a new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. If you’re considering buying this superb compact sedan in Fairfield, California, come to Mercedes-Benz of Fairfield. Our dealership has one of the largest inventories of new and used Mercedes-Benz models in Solano County, so you can rest assured you’ll find an A-Class on our lot that suits you. If you’d prefer to build your custom luxury car, we can help you place a factory order and have your desired car delivered to a location of your choice. Contact us online or give us a call at (707) 430-0101 to schedule a test drive today.