See all Motoring NewsMercedes-Benz Ireland is targeting a successful 202-registration period with a number of significant new model arrivals planned across a number segments in its expanded model range. Two compact class SUVs – the GLA and GLB – both recent arrivals are likely to be strong contenders at the entry level. The GLA comes with added interior spaciousness and boot space amongst its key features. Despite increased levels of specification and technology, the new GLA comes with a moderate increase on the outgoing model which had entry pricing of €38,800.
Mercedes’ second compact SUV, the new GLB has amongst its features the option of a 7-seat version, the first Mercedes-Benz in its class to offer such a choice. The GLB can be specced with a third fully retractable row of seats concealed beneath the luggage floor that can be raised to expand capacity to a 7-seat layout as required, which means it will be a popular option amongst family buyers. Prices for the GLB start at €42,350. Other future SUV arrivals will include a new GLE Coupé and GLS.
Other new arrivals will include two of the most important models in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio – a new updated E-Class, scheduled to arrive in July, and a new top-of-the-range S-Class, billed to make its appearance towards year-end. A major focus over the coming six months and beyond will be the emergence of hybrids as a pillar in the Mercedes model range. Describing the 2020/21 line-up as ‘the most inclusive and ecologically attuned’ range of models ever introduced by Mercedes-Benz, Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in Ireland, said: “coming is a range perfectly configured for those socially concerned owners who seek to future-proof their motoring requirements”.
The first hybrid models to arrive in Ireland will be the E300de and the E300e saloon and estate models. In addition to these new models, buyers can expect to see hybrids occupy an significant place in Mercedes-Benz planning going forward. The brand’s recently-established Mercedes EQ division is expected to introduce a 16-strong line-up of hybrid vehicles, including new generation compact cars, the C-Class, GLC and GLE ranges amongst those anticipated.
Describing them as ‘vehicles that deliver the best of all worlds’ Allen said: “through their concentration on hybrids, Mercedes-Benz is poised to capture the growing world-wide demand for this technology amongst eco-conscious motorists”.