Mercedes-Benz to Revise Nomenclature
08-26-14, 04:30 PM
#1
Mercedes-Benz to Revise Nomenclature
We’ve learned that Mercedes-Benz will revise a large chunk of its nomenclature, with the first changes coming early next year. The vehicle at the top of the list is the current third-generation M-class; it is due to be face-lifted in early 2015, and the refresh will bring with it a change to the GLE moniker. The crossover-coupe version—previewed by the Concept Coupe SUV pictured above—will be called the GLE Coupe. We first heard of the change from the German site Mercedes-Benz Passion, and we have been able to corroborate the story with our own sources.
The GLE and GLE Coupe monikers are part of a larger renaming strategy that will attempt to make the vast Mercedes-Benz lineup a bit more lucid to customers. Mercedes has already made one such switch, re-rechristening the CL-class as the S-class Coupe with the latest-generation models. Insiders we contacted compared the move to Audi’s mid-1990s renaming spree, which saw the Audi 80 become the A4 and the Audi 100 the A6.
The “E” in GLE is intended to hint at M-B’s similarly sized sedan model. Down the road, the GLK replacement will be the C-class–based GLC, and it will again slot between the GLA and the GLE. (Mercedes continues to contemplate a coupe version of the GLC, as well.) We won’t lament the passing of “ML” badging; it was a compromise forced by BMW, which objected to Mercedes-Benz using M on the butts of its first-ever mainstream SUV. We’re working to get more details on Benz’s new naming strategy as we type—so stay tuned.
The GLE and GLE Coupe monikers are part of a larger renaming strategy that will attempt to make the vast Mercedes-Benz lineup a bit more lucid to customers. Mercedes has already made one such switch, re-rechristening the CL-class as the S-class Coupe with the latest-generation models. Insiders we contacted compared the move to Audi’s mid-1990s renaming spree, which saw the Audi 80 become the A4 and the Audi 100 the A6.
The “E” in GLE is intended to hint at M-B’s similarly sized sedan model. Down the road, the GLK replacement will be the C-class–based GLC, and it will again slot between the GLA and the GLE. (Mercedes continues to contemplate a coupe version of the GLC, as well.) We won’t lament the passing of “ML” badging; it was a compromise forced by BMW, which objected to Mercedes-Benz using M on the butts of its first-ever mainstream SUV. We’re working to get more details on Benz’s new naming strategy as we type—so stay tuned.
08-26-14, 05:15 PM
#3
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Not sure what is so hard about the way it is now. I think its great they removed the CLK/CL, and SL moniker, that will simply a lot already
It isn't that hard to remember GLA, GLK, ML, R, GL and G
It isn't that hard to remember GLA, GLK, ML, R, GL and G
08-26-14, 05:21 PM
#4
Lead Lap
Was waiting for this info to be released. They're really trying to make "families" now. For example:
E-class sedan
E-class coupe
E-class convertible
GLE SUV
GLE SUV coupe
Will the CLS be renamed CLE later?
and
A-class hatch
CLA coupe
GLA "SUV"
E-class sedan
E-class coupe
E-class convertible
GLE SUV
GLE SUV coupe
Will the CLS be renamed CLE later?
and
A-class hatch
CLA coupe
GLA "SUV"
08-26-14, 07:34 PM
#5
Lexus Fanatic
This is stupid. The M Class has a strong following and brand identity itself at this point. Changing its name is just stupid...a'la Infiniti.
08-26-14, 07:47 PM
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I would agree that the M class name is part of the brandy identity but it has always puzzled me why the literature always called it the "M" and then the cars are badged the ML. I guess this is the type of disconnect they want to get rid of
08-26-14, 07:52 PM
#7
Lexus Fanatic
At least call it the GLM...
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08-27-14, 07:23 AM
#11
I think this makes sense... "E" is midsize, "C" is below that, "S" is top end, "A" is entry level. I see the merit here.
Will the GL be renamed to GLS though? That one sounds odd, as I think Hyundai uses "GLS" as a mid-level trim line on most of their cars.
Will the GL be renamed to GLS though? That one sounds odd, as I think Hyundai uses "GLS" as a mid-level trim line on most of their cars.
