Important Figures Behind the Design of Mercedes-Benz Cars Leave the Company

JAKARTA - A new era will begin for Mercedes-Benz on January 31, 2026, Gorden Wagener, the figure behind the German manufacturer's modern design language, is confirmed to leave after 28 years of career and shaping Mercedes' visual identity in all lines. Wagener joined Mercedes in 1997.

His early work immediately caught the eye through his involvement in the iconic Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren car project, which he worked on with Gordon Murray, the legendary engineer behind the McLaren F1. The SLR then entered production in 2003, bringing a 5.4-liter V8 supercharged engine as its hallmark, from where Wagener's career took off.

In 2008, Wagener was appointed head of design, and in this position he oversaw the birth of a series of influential models such as the first generation Mercedes-AMG GT, the S-Class W222, to the A-Class W176. His influence became more dominant in 2016 when he took on a new position as Chief Design Officer, the top role in the direction of Mercedes-Benz's global design.

In the last decade, Wagener has presented a more progressive design vision. He was involved in the development of the SL R232, updating the G-Class, to designing the EQ electric vehicle line which became a new milestone for Mercedes in the era of electrification.

Not all of his styles are always accepted by the public, but the exploration of new design forms and directions is part of the creative risks he takes. Some of the latest works that stand out include the latest CLA, the electric version of the GLC, and the futuristic Vision Iconic concept, which is considered a bold step towards the next generation design identity, although it has caused controversy due to the large size of the grille.

Wagener is also known for being vocal about competitor designs, he once criticized the interior of the Audi Concept C which he thought was outdated, and did not like the large screen display on the BMW iX3. On the other hand, Mercedes now has a 39.1-inch wide Hyperscreen that stretches across the dashboard as a different approach to the cabin experience.

Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Ola Kallenius, said Wagener's contribution had enriched Mercedes-Benz sustainably through his creativity and sensitivity to the future of automotive design.

Wagener, now 57, will leave the company at his own request.