On March 19, 2025, Mercedes-Benz announced the discontinuation of the A-Class Hatchback – a compact car that once made its name in Europe. For car enthusiasts, this is both sad and happy news: sad because a versatile icon is leaving, happy because a new electric SUV, called the “mini-G-Class”, is about to launch at the end of 2025. Mercedes-Benz is moving into the era of electrification, and the car enthusiast community cannot wait any longer.
A-Class Hatchback: the journey ends
Launched in 1997, the A-Class Hatchback brought a new wind to Mercedes-Benz, breaking the stereotype of large luxury cars. The last generation (W177) with a 1.3L turbocharged engine (163 horsepower), youthful design and high-tech interior conquered many urban enthusiasts. However, the trend of SUVs and electric cars has caused sales to decline, forcing Mercedes to discontinue the hatchback line to focus on high-profit segments such as the G-Class. In Vietnam, where the C-Class or GLC dominate, the A-Class Hatchback is less popular, so this move does not cause much regret. For car lovers, the A-Class represents compactness and European sophistication. The cessation of production marks the end of a design philosophy, making way for an ambitious electrified future.
“Mini G-Class” Electric: legend reborn
Replacing the A-Class, Mercedes introduced the EQG Compact – an electric SUV based on the MMA platform. The car has the typical square design of the G-Class, from the closed grille to the angular body, captivating those who love the legendary off-road style. The electric motor is expected to produce 200-250 horsepower, with an operating range of 400 km, suitable for both urban and light terrain. Adaptive suspension and diverse driving modes promise to bring excitement to the driver.
The interior retains the Mercedes style: MBUX dual screen, high-quality materials and optimal space. For technology enthusiasts, this is a combination of luxury and modernity, competing directly with Tesla Model Y or BMW iX1. In Vietnam, EQG Compact can cause a fever if the price falls to around 1.5-2 billion VND, taking advantage of the growing green car trend.
Electrification strategy
Mercedes not only follows the trend but also wants to popularize the G-Class to a lower segment. The “mini G-Class” is an affirmation: the legendary off-road style can exist in the electric era. For car enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to own a miniature “G-Wagen” without spending billions of VND, although the question of actual off-road capability is still open.
Community Response
On car enthusiast groups like “Mercedes-Benz Vietnam Enthusiasts”, the reaction was very enthusiastic. Some people regretted the A-Class because of its irreplaceable flexibility, especially for those who love European hatchbacks. However, the “mini G-Class” received a fever from long-time G-Class fans, excited about the idea of an electric SUV with legendary DNA. Many people asked: “Will it retain the true G quality or is it just a trendy copy?”
The A-Class Hatchback’s demise is a major turning point, paving the way for a promising electric “mini G-Class”. For car enthusiasts, the EQG Compact brings a fusion of tradition and the future – compact, powerful and green. Although it has to wait until the end of 2025, this model is enough to heat up the car enthusiast community.
