This is a constant quarrel, as old as the world: rivalry between Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi in the premium class. If historically Mercedes dominated the global sales of this category, then 2021 marked the rise to a niche BMWwhich had surpassed his opponent and took first place. And in 2022? BMW remained number 1 by a small margin, overtaking the company with a star for the second year in a row! The difference in units sold is minimal: only 56,792 copies more for BMW ! That’s nothing, admittedly, but compared to the 2,100,692 BMWs and 2,043,900 Mercedes sold worldwide in 2022, let’s face it, the difference is negligible! For its part, Volkswagen Group has yet to report Audi’s results.
The battle for electricity
If Munich and Stuttgart waged war over combustion for decades (biturbo V8 here, V12 there), both manufacturers boast great numbers now their electrified models ! Thus, BMW would sell 372,956 electric or hybrid cars, which is 35.6% more than in 2021. For its part, Mercedes-Benz sold 319,200 in the same fiscal year, including the sale of its Smart brand. One and the other increase in electrotechnical noveltieswith special labels: i’m for bmw Equalizer for Mercedes. So much so that most of their historic models (compacts, sedans, SUVs) are now available in 100% electric versions! It seems like a long time ago when BMW’s straight six was one of the brand’s first selling points…
Great luxury knows no crises
It is also on luxury segment that the two rivals faced off in 2022. The “Big Three” of European premium, as you might call them, actually each have a luxury division. Rolls Royce for BMW, Maybach for Mercedes-Benz, Bentley for Audi and Volkswagen Group. Recorded by Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Maybach sales increase, while BMW and Mercedes-Benz declined. Rolls-Royce sold 6,021 models, Mercedes-Maybach 21,600, which is 37% more than in 2021!
In general, the two main German car groups, like most manufacturers, have been affected by the slowdown in the car market. On the other hand, the end of 2022 was more positive, with BMW and Mercedes-Benz seeing growth of 10.6% and 17% in the fourth quarter. So, the match is far from over if 2023 is more normal than 2022the cards might be reshuffled in favor of Mercedes-Benz, who knows?
Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.