Mercedes-Benz is one of the most recognized automotive brands in the world, not only for their historic and current ties in global motorsport but also for their large and comprehensive product range. Whether you aim to set fast lap times around a track, conquer off-road mountain trails or transport staff or goods from one place to the next, they have a model for the task.
If you are concerned about whether or not Mercedes-Benz manufacture vehicles that will suit the needs of your family, we break down some of the options the German automaker has in different vehicle segments.
Hatch
If your family is still small and affordability is at the top of your mind, then why not consider an A-Class. The compact offering comes with 370-litres of boot space as well as ample room for both parents and their children. In its most basic form, the A-Class also come with seven airbags as well as a host of standard driver-assist systems such as ABS brakes, stability and traction control, and even hill-start assist.
Sedan
If you have been browsing for new or used Mercedes-Benz models on AutoTrader, you might have noticed that the A-Class is not only available in hatch form but sedan also. Although the two variants share the same platform, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan offers additional boot space, 420-litres, which makes it more practical for families.
Another model that shares the platform of the A-Class is the CLA, which sees the luggage compartment increased further to 460-litres, however, the sloping roofline does encroach on the headroom of the rear occupants. If you are in the market for a sedan model that will offer additional space in the cabin and a similarly-sized boot, then why not take a look at the new C-Class.
Of course, there are always the larger E-Class and S-Class model ranges that not only offer more space but a host of additional standard safety and comfort features, not to mention luxury.
MPV
Once again if affordability is important and practicality is key, then the B-Class might be just what you are looking for. The MPV body style means that you get a compact vehicle that is easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces as well as a large 455-litre boot and a tall greenhouse for additional headroom. Like with the A-Class, you can expect seven airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction control, and hill-start assist to feature as standard equipment.
Crossover
Crossovers combine the practicality and compactness of a hatchback with some of the versatility of an SUV. While a crossover might not quite conquer the same terrain as a fully-fledged SUV model, it does offer more ground clearance than the hatch or MPV model it is based on. If you are considering a Mercedes-Benz crossover model, you have a choice between the GLA and the slightly larger GLB model.
In the case of the GLA, you can expect many of the same amenities and safety features as found in the model it is based on, the A-Class, however, with a taller ground clearance rated at 143mm. The boot space also increases to 496-litres, ample for a family going on a quick trip. While the GLB measures slightly closer to the ground, 135mm, it further improves on space as the luggage compartment is rated at 565-litres.
The GLB can optionally be configured with seven seats. While with all seven seats in use, this will encroach on the boot space, it does mean more practicality for larger families.
SUV
When it comes to SUV models, like with sedan offerings, customers are spoilt for choice. The entry-point to the SUV range for Mercedes-Benz is the GLC model which can be had in either a traditional SUV configuration or with a coupé-like sloping roof. While the stylish GLC coupé provides for 500-litres of luggage space, the standard variant offers 550-litres with all five seats in use.
For even more cabin and boot space as well as road presence, customers should consider the GLE range. Like with the GLC, the larger GLE comes in both a more traditional body style as well a coupé configuration. Counterintuitively, the standard GLE offers slightly less luggage space as it is rated at 630-litres, whereas the coupé measure 655-litres. This is because like with the GLB, the GLE offers a third row of seats to accommodate up to seven passengers.
This is not where it ends for Mercedes-Benz's SUV range as customers can also choose the luxurious GLS or renowned G-Class or G-Wagon as some call it. While the GLS creates the perfect comfortable environment for seven occupants while retaining off-road capabilities, the G-Class is well-known for its ability to tackle the unbeaten path.
Van
For those with extremely large families or the need to transport larger groups of people on a regular basis, well Mercedes-Benz has models for you too. The more basic but practical option for customers is of course the Vito. While it might not incorporate much of the luxuries you might find in its sibling, it does offer seating for up to eight passengers as well as 990-litres of luggage space.
The V-Class might be more of what you are looking for if you want additional standard comfort and safety features. This model range also can be specified to offer six, seven or eight seats depending on your needs.
Verdict
Customers can expect good levels of build quality, reliability, performance, space and safety across a wide variety of segments, thus it is safe to say that Mercedes-Benz is indeed good for families. To browse for new or used Mercedes-Benz models on AutoTrader, click here.
