Best Used Mercedes: Top 10
Which Mercedes is best to buy? Most of those who think about a luxury car that combines grace and style, imagine one of the most desirable brands of all time in the world of vehicles - Mercedes-Benz. This brand has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts all over the world. Sophisticated and elegant design, powerful engines, luxury and reliability - the appeal of Mercedes-Benz is a global phenomenon.
Mercedes-Benz was founded in 1926 by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, two pioneers of the automobile industry. Karl Benz is considered the inventor of the first gasoline-powered car, and Gottlieb Daimler, in turn, invented the first four-wheeled car in 1890.
The Mercedes-Benz brand has a rich history spanning more than a century. From the early days of automobile "racing" to the present day, Mercedes-Benz has been a leader in automotive innovation and technology. Quality, luxury, style and reliability are four reasons that can explain the immense love for this brand.
Which class of Mercedes is better
Do you know how many vehicle classes the German brand Mercedes-Benz has? As many as 16 classes, which allow you to assign a vehicle to one or another category. They differ by the following characteristics:
- body type: sedan, hatchback, coupe, crossover, station wagon;
- price;
- the volume and power of the powertrain;
- comfort level;
- dimensions and specifications.
Let's describe each of them in detail so you can choose the best Mercedes class for you.
A-Class
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is one of the best-selling models in the manufacturer's range. Bright and stylish, the A-Class is available in hatchback or sedan bodies. The exterior is designed in perfect symmetry, where all body lines follow the same direction. The interior is equally impressive: a panoramic screen, smooth transitions between the dashboard and doors, and background lighting create what is undoubtedly the most luxurious cabin in its class.
With MBUX, the A-Class becomes incredibly intelligent. The system learns about its driver every day: for example, it finds out the fastest route to work in case of traffic jams, remembers his favorite music and even reacts to his mood. All of this is available via the "Hey Mercedes" command.
A diamond grille with black pins at the front complements the 10-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels. In the cabin, the driver is welcomed by MBUX with semi-autonomous driving function, colored turbine-style vents and ARTICO faux leather seats.
At the top of the range is the much more aggressive A-Class, with modified AMG aerodynamics, 19-inch cross-spoke forged wheels, panoramic sunroof, AMG Performance seats and an acceleration time to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.
B-class
Mercedes-Benz calls the B-Class "a family car, but not what everyone is used to."
Its curved design gives the car a majestic appearance on the road, while remaining classic and unobtrusive. The interior is in keeping with the style of the rest of the Mercedes range: panoramic display, background lighting, colored vents with turbine effect, MBUX system and luxurious leather.
Safety plays a key role, with standard features such as lane keeping, active braking, Attention Assist and LED headlights.
At the top of the line - the AMG Line Premium Plus version - Mercedes emphasizes the small details: illuminated door sills, keyless entry, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof and an adaptive high beam system.
C-class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been refreshed for 2021, receiving a new design both inside and out, as well as a host of new technology and safety features.
Available in sedan, station wagon, coupe and convertible. The C-Class is one of those models that combines luxury and affordability with comfort. It offers options such as semi-autonomous driving system, digital display, background lighting, 360-degree cameras and collision avoidance technology.
E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is available in sedan, station wagon, coupe and convertible bodystyles. Its elegant exterior, combining a dynamic front end with a powerful rear end, harmonizes with an interior made with luxurious materials, featuring a touchscreen steering wheel, multicolor background lighting, Burmester surround sound.
In addition, the E-Class offers new levels of individualization for Mercedes: you can choose the bodywork, alloy wheels and interior trim of your choice. Five variants of the E-Class are currently available, ranging from the base Sport to the AMG Line Night Premium Plus.
S-Class
Mercedes-Benz claims that the S-Class sedan offers unique comfort and safety, whether you're the driver or a backseat passenger in the extended version of the S-Class Long.
The design of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class focuses on perfect exterior proportions and luxury inside. Innovative digital headlights, keyless entry and start system, MBUX projection display with augmented reality, 3D Driver Display and 12.8-inch OLED center console - a true oasis of luxury technology.
G-Class
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the benchmark of style in the world of SUVs. Its imposing exterior conceals magnificent luxury, offering exquisite materials, adaptive technology and outstanding comfort.
It's three vehicles in one. First, it's a rugged off-roader that can conquer virtually any terrain thanks to adaptive driving modes and three differential locks.
Second, it's a highway cruiser. It absorbs asphalt, covering kilometers, albeit with high fuel consumption, while providing a level of luxury comparable to the S-Class.
And finally, it's a sports car. The top-of-the-line G63 outperforms many sports cars in a straight line thanks to its powerful 585 hp V8 engine.
M-Class
First of all, it is worth noting the interior of the M-Class. Immersed in leather and providing comfort comparable to a 5-star hotel, the cabin is sure to appeal to lovers of quality finishes where attention to detail is at the highest level. The cabin is luxurious and the interior evokes a sense of richness and sophistication. The black wood inlays are unique and blend perfectly with the chosen color scheme. Silver inserts on the dashboard, a large 4-spoke steering wheel and a host of features such as tri-zone climate control, active parking assistant, 9 airbags, all add to the functionality and safety of the ML.
V-Class
Opting for the V-Class in the Premium trim gives you stylish 19-inch alloy wheels and sporty bumpers on the outside. Inside, you get a 12.3-inch infotainment display and digital dashboard, as well as wireless phone charging and leather upholstery. Also standard is the Winter Pack, which adds heated windshield, steering wheel, and front seats.
CLA-Class
The Mercedes-Benz CLA, available in Coupe and Shooting Brake body styles, provides the perfect blend of sportiness and practicality. Its 505-liter trunk offers plenty of space in the rear - 1,350 liters with the seats folded down - without sacrificing style thanks to the CLA Shooting Brake's sloping rear end.
A wider trunk opening compared to the sedan makes this version of the CLA much easier to load, while an additional 50 mm of headroom and increased legroom provide a comfortable ride for passengers.
Up front, the CLA Shooting Brake features Mercedes' panoramic dual-screen display, a host of technologies including MBUX, and is luxuriously appointed.
CLS-Class
Mercedes-Benz CLS plays an important role in the world of automobile industry. It was the first car that combined coupe-like design to become a luxurious four-door highway cruiser.
This has been achieved thanks to the impressive AMG Line base package, which includes 19-inch alloy wheels, smart headlights, AMG body styling, heated seats and the acclaimed panoramic infotainment system.
At the top of the lineup is the CLS 53, which features all-wheel drive, improved 20-inch wheels, enhanced styling and a bi-turbo engine with 435 horsepower.
GLA-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV is based on the A-Class platform and has the same stylistic underpinnings with some "off-road" styling elements. These include black plastic wheel arches and a slightly higher ground clearance and driving position.
Inside, the GLA again follows the design of the A-Class, although there are some differences. Slight changes in trim styles and the Safety Package for off-road driving provide enough difference between the two models.
However, there's no doubt that the GLA is more of a crossover for the road than a full-fledged off-road vehicle.
GLB-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV skillfully combines luxury and practicality. This compact seven-seater takes its design inspiration from the powerful G-Class SUV, while retaining the refinement expected of an urban crossover.
Inside, the GLB echoes the features of its more status-oriented brethren. An outstanding interior with dual digital displays, chrome turbine-style vents and impeccable stitching compensates for its smaller size compared to other models on the market.
The GLB's design explains its high price, which, like its luggage space, is above the market average.
GLC-Class
Mercedes-Benz has positioned the GLC as a symbol of modern luxury. Available in SUV or coupe body styles like the BMW X4, its build quality and style are undeniable, even if the interior is reminiscent in some parts of the less attractive previous Mercedes models.
On the outside, however, the GLC appears to be an imposing, modern car on powerful alloy wheels that can be upsized to 20 inches. Sporty but faux air intakes add to the aggressive look of the GLC.
Thus, the GLC is a car for those who value style and comfort more than speed and dynamic cornering. It is practical, with a trunk comparable in size to the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, and all-wheel drive as standard.
GLE-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the perfect cruiser SUV, available in a coupe version. With seven seats and a huge trunk, it is also practical, although the rearmost seats can comfortably accommodate two adults - the same disadvantage as the smaller GLB.
And yet, despite this problem, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is still the class leader. The Merc's critically acclaimed panoramic display is only complemented by augmented reality satellite navigation and autonomous driving assistance systems. And luxurious leather and an abundance of chrome trim enhances the GLE's luxury home to the max.
It's not as sporty as a BMW X5, nor as pacifying as an Audi Q7, but if you're looking for an upscale, luxury SUV to enjoy driving hundreds of miles, the GLE is certainly a win-win choice.
EQ (Electric Intelligence)
The EQS is a full-size electric luxury sedan that is designed as an equivalent to the S-Class cars. It was introduced in 2021 and is the first EQ model with a special EVA platform as its base.
The EQS is not just a new era in automotive engineering, but an opportunity to start every day anew. All-new, designed to exceed expectations, it marks a milestone in the integration of progressive mobility with executive luxury.
The best Mercedes models on the aftermarket
Our ranking of the best used Mercedes-Benz brand cars:
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212, 2009-2016)
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204, 2007-2014)
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463, 1990-2018)
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221, 2006-2013)
- Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class (X204, 2008-2015)
- Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230, 2001-2011)
- Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (W164, 2005-2011)
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207, 2009-2017)
- Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (C218, 2010-2018)
- Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W246, 2011-2019)
And now the most important features of the models that are included in our top Mercedes.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212, 2009-2016)
The ninth generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has brought back the brand's core strengths: comfort, safety and luxury. User impressions are very positive - the feeling of a reliably assembled car appears as soon as you get behind the wheel. From the heavy "slam" of the doors to the sensations that arise when switching buttons, reliability is present in everything. A return to the more angular interior styling typical of older Mercedes models has made the car more practical, although it may not be as attractive as other premium cars such as the Jaguar XF.
There are significant changes under the hood as well, with new gasoline and diesel engines that offer better fuel economy and performance.
This model may well be the answer to the question of which Mercedes is better to buy used. On the road, the E-Class meets all expectations: smooth ride, cozy interior and sufficient performance. In the latest generations, many useful technologies have become available, such as a blind spot warning system and adaptive high beam, which automatically switches if an oncoming car appears.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204, 2007-2014)
The C-Class has always been a worthy car - this model is so accomplished that it has achieved near cult car status.
With the introduction of the third generation of this model, the C-Class has become truly competitive. Mercedes is still not as sharp in driving as the same BMW, but this is more than compensated by a softer and more comfortable ride. In general, the main impression of the C-Class is unrivaled comfort.
The C-Class lineup is extensive, from the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with 154 hp (C180 Blue Efficiency, introduced in 2012) to the powerful AMG model with a 6.2-liter V8 developing more than 500 hp in its final version.
Gasoline models represent the best option in terms of cost - they are economical and quiet.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463, 1990-2018)
The best Mercedes models remain so years later. The timeless Mercedes G-Class is incredibly expensive and not very comfortable on the road - it won't satisfy those looking for a Range Rover or Mercedes GL-Class style luxury SUV. This is the vehicle for those in search of the most powerful SUV.
The "G" stands for "Gelandewagen", which translates to "a car that can go anywhere". In this case, "everywhere" means virtually any uninhabitable part of the planet, from the Sahara Desert to the Arctic. More than thirty years after its original launch, the G-Class is finding new life as a fashion icon these days. This hand-assembled SUV is the longest-running passenger vehicle in Mercedes-Benz's 120-year history.
The best Mercedes in the off-road class in the history of the automaker. Only the Land Rover Defender can match this SUV in off-road conditions. But you are unlikely to use the Defender as everyday transportation. In contrast, the Gelandewagen is not only capable of overcoming any obstacles, but also remains a luxurious choice for every day.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221, 2006-2013)
From 2006 to 2013, they were driven by everyone from celebrities to world leaders. Mercedes S-Class of the W221 era has long since given way to the new generation and completely moved to the secondary market, where it can be purchased for a very modest sum.
The engine range ranges from a 3.0-liter V6 in the S280 to a 6.0-liter V12 in the S65, although most buyers opt for the diesel S320 and S350 CDi models. They have 232 hp and 268 hp, respectively, with the S320 referring to cars before the restyling (before 2010) and the S350 after.
The 2.2 ton version with a V12 engine with 603 hp and twin turbos accelerates from 0 to 100 km per hour in 4.4 seconds. And even the less powerful S63, with a 6.2-liter or 5.5-liter V8 shows a result of less than 5 seconds.
Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class (X204, 2008-2015)
This compact crossover is characterized by impeccable build quality and an interior that has been finished with premium materials. No less impressive is its behavior on the road. The GLK behaves confidently at high speeds and drives smoothly, as it should be for a sedan of this class.
The 2015 GLK-Class was sold in two versions: for those who put performance above fuel economy, and vice versa. The GLK350 is powered by a 302-horsepower V6 engine that gives the compact crossover a spirited feel. The GLK 250 Bluetec is not as fast and is powered by a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, resulting in impressive fuel consumption.
This is the best Mercedes in terms of value for money. Many of the high-tech features available in more expensive Mercedes models are also offered in the GLK, although mostly as options so that the base price remains attractive to a wide audience.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230, 2001-2011)
The Mercedes SL-Class generation R230 was introduced to the market for the 2001 model year. Interestingly, the R230 and the predecessor R129 were sold simultaneously for two model years before the R129 finally left the market with the introduction of a special Silver Arrow version in 2002. The R230 then continued on its own from 2003. The SL-Class was one of the first Mercedes models, along with the W220 S-Class, to debut a new design concept and approach to engineering. While both of these aspects have been controversial over the years, the SL is still a pretty unique car.
Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (W164, 2005-2011)
The Mercedes M-Class is a car that evokes mixed feelings among many of the brand's loyal fans. Although it was the car that helped the company establish itself in a very lucrative market niche, the M-Class is often seen as the car that started the decline of Mercedes' assembly quality to a mass-market level.
In 2009, Mercedes introduced BlueEFFICIENCY diesel engine technology, which reduced fuel consumption. The ML280, ML320 and ML420 models were replaced by the ML300, ML350 and ML450. The gasoline engine lineup was limited to the ML500 and ML63 AMG models.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (C207, 2009-2017)
An elegant four-seater car with rich equipment and a prestigious image. You should be prepared for high operating costs when you agree to buy it.
The E-Class Coupe is available with 2 suspension options depending on the selected equipment. If you value comfort, choose the SE model with softer springs. If you want something more sporty, the best choice is the Sport package with a stiffer suspension. In any case, E-Class Coupe copes well with roughness of the road. But compared to the BMW 4 Series Coupe, the sharpness of its steering is lower, as it is characterized by lurching in corners, and its steering is quite slow.
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (C218, 2010-2018)
When Mercedes-Benz first introduced the CLS in 2004, the company claimed to have created a new market segment. Today, most major manufacturers make such a claim almost every few months, with varying degrees of accuracy. But in the case of the CLS four-door coupe, it was indeed true.
Many consider this to be the best used Mercedes you can buy on the aftermarket. Some Mercedes-Benz models of the last decade have failed to win the affections of buyers (like the R-Class and GL-Class), but the original CLS has always been a hit. It combines the sleek, streamlined shape of a coupe with the practicality expected of a standard E-Class sedan, plus excellent handling.
The new 2011 model range continues the tradition of the original CLS, but with key changes in detail. Most importantly, the engines are 25% more efficient and for the first time in CLS history there is a model with a four-cylinder engine - the CLS 250.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W246, 2011-2019)
The first generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class was a solid front-wheel-drive minivan that most considered a larger version of the smaller A-Class. It was a decent vehicle, but it soon lost its popularity.
The second generation was designed to give the car a more traditional look and better dynamics than the first version. It is lower, slimmer and more 'athletic', while retaining practicality and a spacious interior.
The engine lineup included 1.6-liter gasoline engines rated at 121 hp and 154 hp in the B180 and B200 models, a 1.5-liter diesel engine rated at 107 hp in the B180d, a 2.1-liter diesel engine rated at 134 hp in the B200d, and a 2.1-liter diesel engine rated at 175 hp in a top-of-the-line version called the B220d. A six-speed manual transmission was standard, but a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic was also offered.
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