Report: Mercedes-Benz GLC & GLE Coupe SUVs Will Be Axed

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly planning to axe the entire lineup of both the GLC and GLE coupe SUVs.

As if the recent demise of many sporty coupes were not enough, it appears that coupe SUVs may also be heading to extinction, although we’re not that mad this time around. Following the footsteps of BMW axing the X4 is fellow German rival Mercedes-Benz, which reportedly will decide the fate of its two coupe SUV models—the GLC and GLE Coupe—in the near future.

The two aforementioned models are the sole coupe SUVs currently sold by the automaker, which competes directly with both the BMW X4 and X6, respectively. And just like the recently-demised X4, part of the reason for this discussion is due to the poor sales numbers, where both the GLC and GLE Coupe SUVs only account for about 10-15% of the global GLC and GLE sales.

This revelation was initially reported by German newspaper Handelsblatt, where several Mercedes-Benz insiders reported that the company is questioning the future of these coupe SUVs. While some Merc executives call for a total removal of both models from its product lineup, others suggest that the automaker should combine them into one model, just like what it did with the new CLE two-door sportscar.

Further strengthening this argument is the fact that the new all-electric GLC SUV’s replacement, set to debut later in 2026, is not expected to have a coupe version. Given that current SUV models are getting a more streamlined and aerodynamically-optimised design, this may have also deemed the sloped-roofed SUVs to be somewhat redundant.

Putting aside its borderline controversial design, coupe SUVs have plenty of loyal fans in the market, where many buyers don’t mind sacrificing some practicality and headroom in return for sporty styling. This bodystyle also serves as a perfect alternative to those sporty fastback-style saloons, as taller-riding vehicles are much more preferred by car owners nowadays.

Second-gen Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe (left) & facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe recently made their local debut here.

Not to forget, both the GLC and GLE Coupe SUVs are still fresh and new, with the former recently getting a next-gen redux alongside its ‘normal-roofed’ twin last year, while the latter has been given its first facelift treatment this year, following its initial debut back in 2019. Given that no final decision has yet to be made, there’s a chance that both models will stick around for at least a year or two.

Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to consolidation, with the Stuttgart-based marque having been quite busy streamlining its product lineup in recent times. Besides the new CLE sportscar, which is a result of a combination between the C-Class and E-Class coupes, the automaker has also axed some less profitable models like the CLS lineup, while other models like the small A-Class and B-Class are reportedly already on their way to the chopping block.