by Mercedes-Benz has released its sales report for the first quarter of 2026, which presents a contradictory picture. Overall global sales of the brand’s vehicles declined, but growth is observed in certain regions and segments.
Situation in the US Market
Sales of Mercedes passenger cars in the US for the first quarter decreased by approximately 3%, to a level of around 70 thousand units. However, obtaining a detailed picture is complicated by the fact that the company no longer discloses data for individual models. This change in policy occurred after weak results from the EQE and EQS models. Instead, the manufacturer provides only general figures and highlights positive points.
Despite this, Mercedes stated “strong results despite significant market challenges.” Sales of Maybach luxury models grew by 22%, and the G-Class by 16%. The SL model showed growth of 47%, and the popular GLC and GLE SUVs increased sales by 17% and 19% respectively.
The company also noted that “customer interest and excitement around the new CLA continue to grow across the US market.” However, specific sales figures for this model were not provided, which may indicate unsatisfactory results.
Sales of Mercedes vans in the US fell by 6%, to approximately 8,500 units. The company merely stated that it remains focused on “offering versatile premium van solutions that support the evolution of business needs.”
Global Sales Picture
Globally, Mercedes passenger car sales in the first quarter fell by 6%, to around 419,400 units. This occurred despite a 9% increase in electric vehicle sales, which found approximately 44,300 buyers.
The manufacturer particularly emphasized the success of the new electric GLC version, stating that it “received more orders in the first three months than any other electric vehicle in our history.” It was added that orders for the electric CLA, GLB, and GLC are booked far into the second half of the year.
Apart from electric vehicles, a positive point was European orders for the updated S-Class, which exceeded expectations. The company also expects a boost from the updated GLE and GLS models.
Contradictory Data and Problems in China
The global press release states that vehicle sales in the US grew by 20%, to 81,100 units. This figure differs significantly from the previously mentioned 70 thousand, which is likely explained by the difference between retail sales and the total number of deliveries. Such discrepancies create a confusing picture.
The most problematic market remains China, where Mercedes sales fell by 27%, to approximately 111,600 units. This sharp decline significantly impacted overall performance in Asia, where sales decreased by 23%.
Global sales of Mercedes vans decreased by 3%, to approximately 80,300 units. Sales of electric vans grew by 29%, but their absolute number remains low at 6,100 units.
Overall, Mercedes’ report for the first quarter of 2026 shows a company in transition. On one hand, there are obvious structural problems in the key Chinese market and a decline in overall sales. On the other hand, there are individual bright successes in the luxury segment and promising growth rates for new electric models, especially in Europe and the US. The company’s strategy aimed at increasing profitability and focusing on top models is yielding results in certain niches, but so far has not stopped the overall decline. The future of the brand will largely depend on whether new electric cars like the CLA and GLC can compensate for losses in traditional segments and restore positions in Asia.
