The top Mercedes-Benz models of the last 10 years

Mercedes-Benz traces its roots to Karl Benz’s 1886 Patent-Motorwagen, widely regarded as the first practical motor car. Well over a century later, the brand is still building some of the finest examples of modern engineering on the road.

This list, first published in 2021, looks back at the best of the best: the standout Mercedes-Benz models from the decade leading into the 2020s.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The SLS AMG (2010 to 2014) was one of the brand’s flagship cars of the early 2010s, and the first car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Rather than adapting an existing model, AMG started from a clean sheet to build its idea of what a performance car should be.

The SLS is a modern take on the 300 SL “Gullwing” supercar of the 1950s, and it kept that car’s signature gullwing doors, a design that still looks futuristic seven decades on.

The numbers match the drama. With a kerb weight of around 1,620 kg and a 47:53 front-to-rear weight distribution, the SLS uses a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 producing 420 kW (563 hp), good for a top speed of 317 km/h.

A-Class

The third-generation A-Class (W176, 2012 to 2018) reinvented Mercedes-Benz’s smallest car. The tall, upright shape of earlier A-Classes was replaced by a low, sporty premium hatchback that brought plenty of new buyers to the brand.

It’s a practical size for singles, couples and small families, yet it still delivers the luxury and badge appeal of a Mercedes-Benz. At the top of the range, the A 45 AMG used a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that made 280 kW (about 376 hp) after its mid-life update, which Mercedes-AMG billed as the most powerful production four-cylinder of its day. A sedan body joined the range with the next generation from 2018.

If you want a well-engineered car that balances performance with everyday usability, the A-Class remains one of the most accessible ways into the brand.

S-Class

The S-Class has long been the flagship of Mercedes-Benz’s luxury sedans, and the W222 generation (2013 to 2020) represents the pinnacle of comfort, luxury and engineering from that era.

Performance is right up there too. The range-topping S 65 AMG used a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 producing 463 kW (621 hp). The W222 also looked to the future, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions offered during its life.

Inside, it is fitted out for the best possible experience whether you’re driving or being driven, with features such as a fragrance system that perfumes the cabin air and massaging seats. It’s one of the most comfortable Mercedes-Benz models ever made, and a car owners happily return to time and time again.

G-Class

The G-Class (W463) is built to take you out of your comfort zone, and it’s one of the most recognisable Mercedes-Benz models on the road.

Its boxy design looks ready for an adventure because it is. The G-Class is a genuine off-roader, famous for its three locking differentials, yet it carries all the luxury and performance you expect from the three-pointed star. Few SUVs combine serious off-road ability with premium comfort so convincingly.

The big change came with the comprehensively redesigned G-Class in 2018. It gained a widescreen digital cockpit, a long list of driver-assistance and comfort features, and independent front suspension in place of the old rigid front axle, while keeping a rigid axle at the rear. The result is far more comfortable on the road without giving up its toughness off it.

SL

The SL is one of the most iconic nameplates Mercedes-Benz has ever produced, and in its R231 generation (2012 to 2020) it was a luxury two-seat roadster with a folding hard top.

The R231 used a body shell made largely from aluminium, saving weight and helping the car feel light on its feet. The flagship SL 65 AMG paired that with a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 producing 463 kW (621 hp). With leather and wood accents throughout the cabin, it’s a luxury car and knows it.

AMG GT 4-Door Coupé

The AMG GT name launched on a two-door sports car in 2014, but the 4-Door Coupé that followed in 2018 combines a luxury sedan with a supercar. It’s comfortable enough for everyday use, yet it delivers performance that tests the limits of its category.

In GT 63 S form, its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produces 470 kW (630 hp), and the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system includes a Drift Mode that sends drive to the rear wheels only. Balanced and beautifully engineered, it’s an understated way to own a genuine supercar.

Selling a Mercedes-Benz? What buyers look for

Whichever model you drive, a few things do the most to protect what your Mercedes-Benz is worth when it’s time to sell:

• A complete service history. A stamped logbook or digital service record from an authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer or a reputable specialist gives buyers confidence. Our guide to maintaining European cars for resale covers this in more detail.
• Kilometres and condition. Low kilometres for the car’s age, a clean interior and wheels free of kerb damage all count.
• Original specification. Factory option packages add appeal, while heavy aftermarket modifications can narrow the pool of buyers.
• Paperwork. Have the registration papers, all keys and any finance details ready.

We’ll take your Mercedes-Benz

Have a Mercedes-Benz to sell? Sell Your Car Australia buys cars Australia-wide, and demand for European and prestige cars like Mercedes-Benz is strong. We’re currently buying vehicles from 2021 or newer with 100,000 km or less, so while some of the older models on this list fall outside that range, late-model Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs are exactly what we’re looking for.

Here’s how it works:

1. Fill in our short free valuation form.
2. Our team calls you quickly to talk through your car.
3. You receive a genuine cash offer, not a data-driven estimate.
4. Once you agree, a deposit can be paid quickly.
5. We inspect the car, then pay the balance into your account.
6. Your car is collected only after the funds have cleared.

Still paying off your Mercedes-Benz? That’s fine. We work with your lender to settle the loan as part of the sale, which usually takes two to three business days.

The valuation is free with no obligation, or you can call us on 1800 73 55 73.