Mercedes-Benz lays the groundwork for new model onslaught

Mercedes-Benz has gone on a trademarking rampage and submitted no less than 10 new nameplate applications with IP Australia in the past month, potentially setting up an armada of new models both here and globally.

The submissions cover the A-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, GLC, CLE, EQS and G-Class portfolios and all point toward the emergence of new high-end variants for all bar the G-Class, which looks set to add a new entry-level model.

The applications are for nameplates we’re yet to see in any of the relevant ranges, comprising A 280, CLA 280, CLA 300, GLA 280, GLB 280, GLC 280, CLE 350, CLE 400, EQS 300 and, perhaps most curiously of all, G 250.

Mercedes’ long-standing naming convention has the nameplate’s numerical figure reflect its position within the relevant range in terms of both power output and equipment, with the bigger numbers being the higher-end variants until you’re knocking on AMG’s door – but the same rule applies there too, albeit from a different starting point.

Put all these new nameplates into perspective, then, and it’s clear Mercedes is at least laying the groundwork for the launch of new variants and, most likely, powertrains.

Starting with the most frequently occurring numerical value, 280, this powertrain could be a new version of the established 2.0-litre turbo-petrol designed to slot between – or potentially replace – the 165kW/350Nm ‘250’ as seen in the compact portfolio (A-Class, GLA, GLB, CLA) and 190kW/400Nm ‘300’ used in the C-Class and GLC.

Note, all A-Class references apply to the GLA, GLB and CLA too, while a new GLC 280 could serve as a new, more accessible entry point for the new-generation mid-size luxury SUV.

A quick look at the related C-Class range suggests a GLC 280 would develop around 170kW/350Nm, or slightly more.

The CLA 300, meantime, could end up with the full-fat 190kW/400Nm system to better distinguish it as the four-door coupe and therefore its sportier disposition than the A-Class sedan, however Mercedes doesn’t always limit its numerical nameplates to one specific powertrain or tune – ie EQE 300 versus EQV 300.

It’s a similar story with the inbound CLE portfolio, where the global line-up comprises the 220d, 200, 300 and 450, so the local trademarking of the CLE 350 and CLE 400 nameplates point to other new variants in the pipeline.

Mercedes-Benz Australia declined to comment on the latest trademarks, but did confirm the CLE coupe would be arriving Down Under mid-next year.

That brings us to the trademarking of the EQS 300 and G 250 – seemingly entry-level variants of two of Mercedes’ most high-end and exclusive products.

The EQS 300 is more of an open-and-shut case, pointing to the likely launch of a ‘base model’ single-motor variant.

Chances are it will pack more punch than the equivalent EQE 300 (180kW/550Nm) on account of its extra size, weight and identity as an EQS.

The G 250 is a little less clear-cut due to the differing G-Class line-ups in certain markets, but the global range could arguably fit a new entry-level version, even if the current G 350 range-opener is a China-only model.

The alternative is that this could be an insight into the already confirmed ‘Little G’ ahead of its global launch from around 2025/26.

Set to be smaller, lighter and cheaper than the full-sized G-Wagen, the familiar ‘250’ 2.0-litre turbo (165kW/350Nm) would be a good match for the downsized 4x4 off-road luxury wagon.

Join the conversation at 

our Facebook page

Or email us at 

editor@carsales.com.au