6 Ugliest Mercedes-Benz Cars In Recent History

Even legends have their off days

Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with engineering excellence and design elegance. But no brand—no matter how revered—is immune to the occasional misstep. Over the decades, Stuttgart has produced a few models that had enthusiasts scratching their heads and designers (presumably) shielding their eyes. Here are six of the most questionable styling decisions to ever roll out with the three-pointed star.

6. Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (W163, 1997–2005)

The first-generation ML-Class was a landmark for Mercedes—its first true SUV and built in the U.S.—but it didn’t look the part. From day one, the W163 came across as a bland, plasticky, and oddly proportioned box with a front grille that seemed borrowed from a mid-'90s Toyota. It had presence, yes, but for all the wrong reasons. The design didn’t wear its years well, and by the mid-2000s, the ML looked positively ancient next to sleeker rivals.

5. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sport Coupe (CL203, 2000–2008)

Also known as the CLC in later years, this was Mercedes’ attempt at a compact, entry-level coupe. The result was an odd, droopy-roofed hatchback with a rear end that looked like it belonged to a different car entirely. The stubby proportions, awkward beltline, and uninspired front fascia made it hard to love. Even the facelift couldn’t save it. Still, with time, these quirky hatchbacks have been growing on people in the last couple of years

4. Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251, 2006–2013)

The R-Class was Mercedes’ attempt to invent a new category: the "luxury sports tourer." What the world got was a bloated, awkward pseudo-MPV with the front end of an E-Class, the rear of a Chrysler Pacifica, and the proportions of a melted SUV. It was neither fish nor fowl—too big for a wagon, too dull for an SUV, and too unattractive to justify its price tag. Despite its spacious interior and decent powertrains, the R-Class sold poorly and is now largely forgotten—and maybe that’s for the best. 

To play devil's advocate, though, the AMG versions of the R-Class are so full of confused character that they've actually gained popularity recently as well.

3. Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W168, 1997–2004)

The original A-Class was revolutionary in packaging but unfortunate in appearance. Its tall, narrow body sat on tiny wheels, giving it all the visual menace of a jellybean on stilts. The design screamed “cheap Euro economy car,” but Mercedes wanted premium money for it. Early on, it also failed the infamous "moose test" (requiring suspension redesign), which didn’t help the already awkward optics. Later generations would refine the formula, but the first-gen A-Class remains a design misfire. Much like other less successful models on this list, the compact Benz is also seeing a rise in desirability for its cuteness and sharp handling.

2. Mercedes-Benz X-Class (2017–2020)

The X-Class was Mercedes' foray into the midsize pickup market, based on the Nissan Navara. And that was the problem. It looked like a Navara wearing an ill-fitting Mercedes mask. While the grille tried hard to project brand identity, the rest of the truck was unmistakably a Nissan. It lacked the visual cohesion you'd expect from a Mercedes and struggled to justify its premium pricing. Buyers weren’t fooled, and the X-Class was quietly killed after just three years.

1. Mercedes-Benz EQS (V297, 2021–present)

The EQS is Mercedes’ electric flagship—technologically brilliant, yet visually underwhelming. Its ultra-aerodynamic, cab-forward design might win wind tunnel trophies, but on the road, it resembles an oversized bar of soap. The proportions are awkward, the front end looks like it’s wearing a VR headset, and the rear lacks any distinctive character. In attempting to design the “S-Class of EVs,” Mercedes instead delivered a car that looks generic and oddly bloated, especially in profile.

>>Join the conversation about these models right here on MBWorld.org

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our How-to section in the forum.