Mercedes Claims That SUV Coupe Models Are Here To Stay

SUV coupe models remain a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers. They offer all the practicality of a traditional SUV, but with a sleeker, more rounded design and – depending on the manufacturer – potentially more dynamic driving characteristics.

Mercedes-Benz is one of the largest representatives of this bodywork offer. Currently, there are three SUV Coupes in the offer, along with three “coupe” sedans with four doors. And judging by their popularity, we shouldn’t expect that number to decrease anytime soon.

In a conversation with Kristof Starzinski, vice president of Mercedes-Benz in charge of strategy and product management, the Motor1 portal asked if customers still want these SUV models with a rounded roofline. His answer was quite clear:

“I see strong demand for coupes… There’s a fan base. Because you’re actually getting a very, very spacious vehicle with very, very sporty driving characteristics… We’re delighted to have cars like that on offer.”

During 2024, there have been rumors that Mercedes-Benz may discontinue some of its SUV coupe models, as the manufacturer seeks to streamline its lineup. The German newspaper Handelsblatt wrote that the GLC Coupe and GLE Coupe models could be among the first to be removed from the range.

While we’re still waiting for a new GLC Coupe based on the latest generation, the return of the GLE Coupe for 2027 suggests there’s still an audience for this specific niche. A wide selection is available to customers — from the basic version all the way to the significantly more powerful AMG 53 and 63 models.

And Mercedes-Benz is not alone in this. Audi, BMW, Genesis and Porsche still offer coupe versions of some of their most popular SUV models. Furthermore, Audi has two SUV coupes in its range – the Q5 Sportback and the Q8 – while Porsche allows customers to choose almost any version of the Cayenne in the Coupe edition, including an electric variant.

For Mercedes-Benz, the SUV coupe remains a key part of the range. And judging by the manufacturer’s claims, it doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon.

• Also Read: Mercedes-Benz Recalls Over 30,000 S-Class Sedans