Mercedes-Benz Model Names Explained: Classes and Badges

Quick answer: A Mercedes-Benz name tells you three things. The letters are the class, meaning the size and body style (C-Class, E-Class, GLC, GLE). The number shows where the model sits in the performance range (a GLC 300 vs. an AMG® GLC 43). The add-ons tell you about the drivetrain or brand: 4MATIC®is all-wheel drive, AMG® is the performance line, Maybach is the ultra-luxury line, and EQ or “with EQ Technology” means fully electric.

The sedans: A, C, E, S

Read them as small to large. The C-Class is the compact luxury sedan, the E-Class is the midsize executive sedan, and the S-Class is the flagship. The CLA is the sleek entry sedan. Not sure between the middle two? See C-Class vs. E-Class.

The SUVs: GL plus a class letter

The “G” goes back to the G-Class, the original Geländewagen. Add the sedan letter and you get the SUV of roughly that size:

• GLA: compact SUV
• GLB: compact SUV with an available third row
• GLC: the C-Class of SUVs, the bestselling size
• GLE: the E-Class of SUVs, midsize
• GLS: the S-Class of SUVs, full-size with three rows
• G-Class: the icon, in a class of its own

Compare them in our guide to the best Mercedes-Benz SUVs for families.

Coupes and convertibles

CLE is the coupe and cabriolet line, SL is the roadster, and AMG® GT is the dedicated sports car. “Coupe” on an SUV, like the GLE Coupe, means a sloping, sportier roofline.

What the numbers mean

Years ago the number matched engine size. Today it shows the performance tier within a model. Higher numbers mean more power: a GLE 350 sits below a GLE 450, and a GLE 580 above both. On AMG® models, 35, 43 and 53 are AMG®-tuned performance versions, and 63 is the top of the AMG® range.

4MATIC®, Maybach and EQ

• 4MATIC®: Mercedes-Benz all-wheel drive. Here is how 4MATIC® compares to other AWD systems.
• AMG®: the performance division. A model named “Mercedes-AMG®” is engineered by AMG®. “AMG® Line” is a sporty appearance package on a regular model. See AMG® Line vs. AMG®.
• Mercedes-Maybach: the most luxurious versions of the S-Class and GLS.
• EQ: fully electric. Models like the EQS and EQE carry the EQ name, and newer electric models like the CLA and GLC are called “with EQ Technology.” Browse all-electric Mercedes-Benz models.
• “e” after the number, like GLC 350e: a plug-in hybrid.
• “+” after the number, like CLA 250+: on electric models, typically the rear-wheel-drive, longer-range version.

Putting it together

Mercedes-AMG® GLE 53 4MATIC®+ Coupé = midsize SUV (GLE), AMG® performance version (53), all-wheel drive (4MATIC®+), with the sloping coupe roofline. Once you know the pattern, every badge reads the same way.

See them in person

The fastest way to understand the lineup is to sit in a few back to back. Browse new inventory or schedule a test drive at Mercedes-Benz of Gilbert, 3455 S Gilbert Rd. Call (480) 407-5800.

Frequently asked questions

What does GL mean on a Mercedes-Benz?

GL marks the SUV line, from the G-Class heritage. The letter after it shows the size, matching the sedans: GLC is C-Class size, GLE is E-Class size, GLS is S-Class size.

What do the numbers on a Mercedes-Benz mean?

They show the performance tier within the model. Higher numbers mean more power.

What is the difference between AMG® and AMG® Line?

Mercedes-AMG® models are performance vehicles engineered by AMG®. AMG® Line is a sporty appearance package on a standard model.