5 Best Used Models For First-Time Mercedes-Benz Buyers

5. Mercedes-Benz GLC (2016-2021)

The first-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC (X254) was introduced in 2015 and quickly became one of the most popular models of the lineup. The spiritual successor to the GLK, the GLC boasted a design character consistent with the rest of the updated Mercedes product line. Being a compact SUV, it served to provide buyers with an elevated level of luxury in comparison to the higher end of the lineup, while still remaining relatively affordable. It also features a more premium overall user experience in comparison to its competitors. Today, nicely-maintained, low-mile examples of the later years of the first-gen GLC can be found between $25K and $30K.

4. Mercedes-Benz CLA (2013-2019)

The smallest and most affordable model Mercedes-Benz offered Stateside in the mid to late 2010s, the CLA-Class truly served as an entry-level Mercedes-Benz. As such, it sold in large numbers of the course of its production run. While it may lack in luxury in comparison to the level of premium product that we’ve come to expect from Sindelfingen, it serves as a great entry point into the lifestyle. Later model years of the CLA in nice shape are available on the used market for less than $20,000.

3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2011-2014)

The W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class may be the most popular Mercedes model in recent memory. But it’s worth noting that not all W204s are created equal. The manufacturer gave the model a rather significant mid-cycle refresh, which focused heavily on updating the interior. That’s why 2011 and older models are preferred. The best part about the model for used car buyers looking to dip their toes in Mercedes ownership experience, nice examples of the C-Class are selling for less than $10K.

2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2007-2013)

The proposition of buying a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class with hopes that it will remain reliable is a risky undertaking to say the least. The S-Class is generally the industry’s benchmark of luxury for whichever era it’s produced in. As such, these models usually boast incredibly complicated technology and highly expensive premium parts. So buying one outside of its warranty period is a sizable risk. That risk factor is directly correlated to how much of their value S-Class examples lose over the course of their lives. But as far as the S-Class goes, the W221 has proven to be quite reliable, especially compared to its predecessor. 

Given the fact that nicely-maintained examples of the 2007-2013 S-Class go for around $15K in the used market, we’d say they’re a great way to get acclimated to the highest level of automotive luxury for a reasonable price. Any prospective buyers of these models is advised to set a good chunk of cash aside for any unexpected maintenance costs!

1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2010-2013)

The W212 Mercedes-Benz E-Class makes the top of the list because it’s not only a decent representation of an era of relatively reliable Mercedes products, but also because it’s a great standard of luxury. Sitting one level above the C-Class and one level below the S-Class the E-Class is generally the sweet spot of Mercedes ownership. That’s why the E-Class is the all-time most popular offering from the German car maker. The W212 boasts a level of quality that is a healthy notch above its predecessor, and a decent amount of reliability as well. 

We’re highlighting the pre-facelift models in this list, as they are proving to be the best bang for the buck in the used market today, with low-mile examples selling for less than $15K these days.

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