Critical Shifts:
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SUV Dominance: The core SUV lineup (GLC, GLE, and GLS) is the primary growth engine, seeing a 22% increase and accounting for 61% of all passenger-car sales. The Alabama-built GLE specifically saw a 19% year-over-year jump.
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High-End Luxury Resilience: Despite broader market challenges, demand for "Top-End" vehicles surged. Notable gains included a 47% increase for the SL, a 22% jump for Maybach, and a 16% rise for the G-Class.
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Performance Stability: Mercedes-AMG continues to maintain momentum with retail deliveries up 3% year-to-date, signaling that the performance sub-brand remains a consistent draw for luxury buyers.
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Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported retail sales of 78,500 vehicles in the first quarter of 2026, which is comprised of 70,000 passenger cars and 8,500 vans.
This strong performance, despite significant market headwinds, was primarily driven by sustained demand across the versatile portfolio of SUVs. Overall, sales of the GLC and the Alabama-built GLE and GLS grew by 22% and accounted for 61% of passenger-car retail sales, with each posting year-over-year gains respectively for the quarter.
“Our first-quarter results reflect the resilience of our incredible dealer network and strong demand despite challenging market conditions across the U.S. auto industry,” Adam Chamberlain, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.
“Our core SUV lineup continues to resonate with customers, and top-end vehicle sales remain brisk with strong sustained interest in our awe-inspiring AMG models. With a highly desirable product range that will be further strengthened with exceptional new products on the way, together with our dealer partners we remain squarely focused on delivering an outstanding ownership experience at every touchpoint.”
The G-Class recorded a 16% year-over-year sales increase in the first quarter. Retail sales of the iconic SL climbed 47% in the same period, and overall AMG retail deliveries are up 3% year to date. Maybach retail sales surged 22%, underscoring continued demand for the brand’s most exclusive offerings.
The GLE, built in Alabama, delivered a 19% year-over-year increase for first quarter sales.
