Mercedes-Benz has previewed its upcoming MLC SUV with a new Concept Coupé SUV for the Beijing motor show. The concept was revealed by Daimler chief Dieter Zetsche at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting.

 

A production version, which will be known as the Mercedes MLC, is already being planned for production in 2015 under the codename C292, and will be built in the US alongside the ML on which it is based. The MLC is a direct rival to the upcoming new BMW X6, its relationship to the ML is similar to the X6’s to the BMW X5. 

 

From the design of the Concept Coupé SUV, it is clear to see that the MLC will be more aggressively styled that the ML, and will adopt a more rakish roofline for its five-door layout. Mercedes claims the styling of the concept is a “realistic” preview of how the MLC will look. Mercedes has strong recent form in turning its concepts into reality, particularly with the S-class coupé. The firm also claims the MLC will have “very dynamic handling”. 

 

“The sportily styled coupé study with the added value of an SUV provides a realistic glimpse of a series-production vehicle expected next year, which will boast very dynamic handling,” said Zetsche in his address. “With the Concept Coupé SUV we aim to secure new customers by opening up new segments for Mercedes-Benz.”

 

“We see a great deal of potential for Mercedes-Benz in the combination of coupé and SUV. We will be officially unveiling the Concept Coupé SUV in just under two weeks at the Beijing Auto Show.”

Expect the standard range to include V6 petrol and diesel engines, with a hybrid model the most economical and V8-powered MLC63 AMG and V12-powered MLC65 AMG the performance variants.

 

MARK TISSHAW