Mercedes-Benz wrapped up 2025 with a strong finish, revealing a shift in what cars and vans the company sells. The year was full of challenges, but the German automaker managed to sell a total of 2.16 million vehicles globally. The last three months of the year were really busy, and became the best sales quarter of 2025. This late boost was driven by a fresh lineup of electric cars and vans that are grabbing the attention of buyers worldwide.
The company is now moving full speed ahead into 2026 with what executives are calling a massive “product offensive.” This plan involves launching several new models and updating existing ones to keep up with the competition.
Mercedes-Benz Global Sales in 2025
One of the biggest headlines from the 2025 report is the growing demand for battery-powered vehicles. In the fourth quarter alone, sales of battery-electric cars jumped by 18% compared to the previous three months. This growth suggests that more drivers are ready to make the switch to electric power, especially when offered the right options.
Europe remains a key market for this transition. In 2025, electrified vehicles – which include both fully electric cars and plug-in hybrids – made up 40% of all Mercedes-Benz sales in the region. This is a big chunk of the market and shows that European buyers are embracing the technology. Countries like France, Denmark, and India even saw record-breaking sales for battery-electric vehicles.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC – source: Mercedes-Benz
A major driver of this success is the new electric CLA. This compact sedan has been a hit with customers and critics alike. It was even named “Car of the Year 2026” by a jury of European automotive journalists. The car has received so many orders that the backlog now stretches well into 2026. This high demand is good news for Mercedes-Benz, as it proves their new designs are resonating with the public.
But it is not just passenger cars that are plugging in. The van division also saw impressive growth in 2025. Mercedes-Benz Vans sold 359,100 units globally, with the fourth quarter showing an 18% increase over the third quarter. The most striking figure, however, is the 46% rise in sales of electric vans.
Mercedes-Benz Y-O-Y Sales Growth
This surge means that electric vans now account for 8% of the division’s global sales, and 11% in Europe. Business owners and families seem to be finding value in these electric workhorses. The company is not slowing down, either. In March 2026, they will debut the new electric VLE. This vehicle is built on a brand-new platform designed specifically for electric vans, and it promises to be a luxury “people mover” for private customers, offering plenty of space and comfort.
Electric cars are the future, but Mercedes-Benz is still seeing strong sales from its traditional high-end models. The famous G-Class, known for its boxy shape and off-road ability, had its best sales year ever in 2025. Deliveries of this icon grew by 23%, helped by the introduction of an electric version that attracted new buyers.
Mercedes-Benz Sales by Segment
The performance division, Mercedes-AMG, also had a banner year. Deliveries rose by 7% to 145,000 units. This success highlights that buyers still crave speed and power, whether it comes from a gas engine or an electric motor. The “Top-End” segment, which includes the most expensive and luxurious models, now makes up 15% of total sales.
The company has big plans for 2026, which marks 140 years since the brand invented the automobile, and they plan to celebrate with a wave of new products. Updates are coming for the flagship S-Class sedan, as well as the GLE and GLS SUVs.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB – source: Mercedes-Benz
New electric models are also on the horizon. The electric C-Class is set to premiere, along with the market launch of the new electric GLC and GLB SUVs. These cars feature the new “MB.OS” operating system, with software that promises to make the cars smarter and easier to use, offering a digital experience that feels like a “welcome home” for drivers.
Despite some hiccups in 2025, such as supply chain issues and tough competition in China, the overall picture is positive. Growth in regions like South America and the Gulf States helped balance out slower sales elsewhere. With a full order book and a showroom full of new technology, Mercedes-Benz looks ready to tackle the road ahead.
