In recent years, Mercedes-Benz has been making significant cuts to its product lineup, focusing on reducing complexity and enhancing profitability. One of the latest models potentially on the cutting room floor? The polarizing “coupe” SUVs—the GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe. While this may upset some fans of the sleek, sloping rooflines, many are starting to think that these niche models are becoming redundant in today’s SUV market. Let’s take a closer look at why Mercedes might axe these models, and why this decision could actually make sense.
When Mercedes introduced the GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe, it was seen as a bold move—combining the practicality of an SUV with the sporty flair of a coupe. The idea was to appeal to buyers who wanted a high-riding vehicle but with a more athletic aesthetic. However, these models, positioned as direct competitors to BMW’s X4 and X6, have never quite reached the same level of success as their traditional SUV counterparts.
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Sales numbers speak volumes. Globally, the coupe variants account for only 10-15% of GLC and GLE sales, and in China, that figure is even lower at around 6%. This raises the question: is it worth keeping these models around, especially when Mercedes is already trimming down its broader lineup?
Rumors have been swirling that Mercedes executives are considering a few options for the future of these coupe SUVs. Some suggest merging the GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe into one model line, while others are leaning toward cutting them entirely. These discussions come at a time when Mercedes is looking to streamline operations, and the coupe SUV might be the next casualty.
Interestingly, the upcoming electric GLC-sized SUV, scheduled for a 2026 release, is not expected to include a coupe version. This could signal a broader trend within Mercedes, moving away from the sloped-roof SUV in favor of more traditional designs that still offer a sleek, aerodynamic profile without sacrificing practicality.
While coupe SUVs have their devoted fanbase, there’s no denying that their appeal has always been a bit niche. The sloping roofline, while visually striking, reduces headroom and cargo space—key factors for buyers seeking practicality in an SUV. As standard SUVs become more refined and adopt increasingly muscular designs, the lines between them and their coupe counterparts are blurring.
This shift in design has made it harder for coupe SUVs to justify their existence. With more SUVs offering a balance between style and practicality, the need for a separate coupe variant seems less critical. Mercedes might be recognizing this and deciding that the resources invested in maintaining these models could be better used elsewhere.
If Mercedes decides to axe the GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe, it wouldn’t be the first time the brand has consolidated its lineup. They’ve already merged the C-Class and E-Class coupes into the new CLE range, and dropped the two-door variants of the S-Class altogether. Similarly, the compact A-Class and B-Class are also expected to be discontinued by 2026, paving the way for more premium offerings.
This strategy of reducing complexity extends beyond just SUVs. Mercedes has been consolidating models across the board, focusing on shared platforms and cutting development costs wherever possible. This approach not only simplifies their lineup but also allows the brand to invest in electric and hybrid technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in today’s automotive landscape.
The GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe aren’t going anywhere just yet. The second-generation GLC Coupe was just introduced in 2023, and the GLE Coupe is expected to receive updates soon, keeping them on the market for at least a few more years. However, their long-term future remains uncertain.
For Mercedes, trimming the fat from its lineup could free up resources to focus on innovation and profitability. While coupe SUV enthusiasts might mourn the potential loss of these models, it’s clear that the market is evolving, and Mercedes is evolving with it.
In the end, the decision to axe or merge these models will likely come down to sales numbers and the overall direction of the brand. And honestly, as SUV designs continue to become more dynamic and versatile, we might not miss the coupe variants as much as we think.
