Photo: SB-Medien
With all the effervescence on the crossover market, Mercedes-Benz has important plans for the GLK compact offering. In fact, the future of the model is of such importance for the German carmaker, that it has decided to introduce radical transformations, such as to rename it GLC and to place an AMG version at the top of the line-up.
The current GLK has never been seriously touched by Affalterbach’s specialists, but our latest spyshots confirm this will change with the GLC. The spied prototype was spotted in the proximity of the AMG test center at the Nurburgring. Take a good look at the test vehicle and you’ll notice the thing appears to be sitting lower than expected, which indicates the presence of a sports suspension.
Flashy rims aside, the rear track appears to be wider compared to what we’ve seen on previous GLC prototypes, while the brakes are also too generous for an average-powered crossover.
Regardless, the all-new architecture means that, unlike the current GLK, the new model will also be offered in right-hand drive configuration.
Under the bonnet, we’ll get AMG’s new 4.0-liter V8. While on the C63 AMG this delivers 476 hp and 510 hp, depending on the flavor, the unit will be downtuned for the GLC63 AMG. The Merc will compete against models such as the Porsche Macan Turbo, who treats its driver with 400 hp. BMW is also rumored to be developing an X3 M, which should feature a lower-tune version of the M3’s 431 hp L6. All in all, 400 horses sounds lile a reasonable figure for the Affalterbach machine.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is expected to land in September 2015, while the AMG incarnation should arrive in the first half of 2016.
Interestingly enough, while German carmakers are continuing to spread their reach into crossover niches, Audi-owned Lamborghini appears to be uncertain about building its SUV, citing an uncertain market.
Flashy rims aside, the rear track appears to be wider compared to what we’ve seen on previous GLC prototypes, while the brakes are also too generous for an average-powered crossover.
What’s with the name change and the muscle injection?
First of all, we have to explain Mercedes-Benz hasn’t yet confirmed the designation change. As for what could have led to this potential transformation, the rumor mill points to the new C-Class, whose MRA (Modular Rear Architecture) platform will also underpin the crossover. By the way, the vehicle uses the X353 internal designation.Regardless, the all-new architecture means that, unlike the current GLK, the new model will also be offered in right-hand drive configuration.
Under the bonnet, we’ll get AMG’s new 4.0-liter V8. While on the C63 AMG this delivers 476 hp and 510 hp, depending on the flavor, the unit will be downtuned for the GLC63 AMG. The Merc will compete against models such as the Porsche Macan Turbo, who treats its driver with 400 hp. BMW is also rumored to be developing an X3 M, which should feature a lower-tune version of the M3’s 431 hp L6. All in all, 400 horses sounds lile a reasonable figure for the Affalterbach machine.
The big picture
Before you point out the current GLK is smaller than a Macan, we have to explain the appearance of the Mercedes GLA means the GLC can grow in size a bit. Returning to the competition talk, the rumors show Mercedes will also introduce a GLC Coupe. Wearing the C253 internal name, this will fight BMW’s X4.The Mercedes-Benz GLC is expected to land in September 2015, while the AMG incarnation should arrive in the first half of 2016.
Interestingly enough, while German carmakers are continuing to spread their reach into crossover niches, Audi-owned Lamborghini appears to be uncertain about building its SUV, citing an uncertain market.
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