Rumors hinting at a new supercar in the Affalterbach yard appeared recently after the world premiere of the SLS AMG Gullwing in September 2009. Several scenarios were advanced by so-called company insiders in the last year: some were claiming the new hyper vehicle will feature a mid-engine architecture and possibly a hybrid powertrain with a 9-speed gearbox. It now looks the situation is far simpler and less fictional: lightweight construction, biturbo V8 unit, AMG double-clutch transmission with 7 gears and further helpful systems to enhance sports driving pleasure.


In a recent interview, Christoph Jung, responsible for performance models' development at Mercedes-AMG, revealed company execs are seriously taking into consideration slotting a new supercar under the current SLS to gun for the Porsche 911. Unlike the Zuffenhausen rival, the future SLC will receive a radical exterior styling to highlight the thoroughly-bred dynamics. Inside, there will be room for only two passengers, but that's fairly enough as along with the extensive use of lightweight materials (aluminium, CFRP etc.), the car's overall mass will be kept as low as possible. Under the front bonnet, engineers will fit a powerful V8 engine, sporting biturbocharging and probably cylinder shut-off technology (for the sake of efficiency) and at least 500 hp of peak output. Other top figures include around 4 seconds to reach 100 km/h and 300 km/h maximum speed. Base price could start from 80,000 euros, which is half the amount of money you'd spend on a SLS AMG. The SLC AMG is tipped to be unveiled in the next two to three years, which means 2014 or 2015. The usual coupe version could be followed shortly by a roadster version. Look for the first camouflaged test prototypes to hit streets beginning with 2013.

Illustration: Auto Express

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

We have talked various times about the continuously expanding range of Mercedes-Benz models, which is allegedly planned to receive new body styles derived from the new A-Class/B-Class compact lineup, the M-Class and the 2013 S-Class (W 222).


Starting with 2013, the A/B family will grow a bit with the addition of the new CLC-Class, a compact 4-door coupe borrowing the design language from the CLS, that will use the front-driven MFA platform and could also spawn an AMG model with up 350 hp. One year after, under the same moniker, Mercedes-Benz will launch an unconventional shooting brake variant, which shall follow the trails of the CLS Shooting Brake, entering the market in 2012. Also in 2014, the Stuttgart-based constructor will unwrap its BMW X1/Audi Q3 fighter: the GLC will feature an unique exterior styling, inspired by the latest philosophy of the brand, and will be offered in both FWD and 4MATIC versions.

Mercedes-Benz does not want to fall behind the main competitors and looks to fill every important segment with niche models. One of them is the future MLC SUV coupe, built on the platform of the new M-Class and set for the official premiere towards 2015.

The illustrious S-Class will mark the entrance to a new generation during the autumn of 2012. The W 222 model will be presented in short wheelbase version, the long wheelbase variant following shortly after in 2013. Featuring new, high-end technologies such as hybrid and electric drive, the luxury flagship will also be available in the S 63 AMG trim, powered by the 5.5-litre V8 biturbo with up to 571 hp. Who knows, we might also get two new V12 petrol engines, one for the S 600, and one for the high-end S 65 AMG monster.

Furthermore, approaching 2014, a new S-Class Coupe replacing the current CL-Class is in cards to bow, probably at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Towards 2015, Mercedes-Benz is rumored to be revealing other two special variants based on the S-Class: a four-dour coupe that would slot in the gap between the CLS and the Coupe and probably a four-door luxury cabriolet based on the Ocean Drive Concept of 2007.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH division will also likely add new supercar to its glorious lineup of dream models. In 2015 or 2016, the Affalterbach-based company plans to uncloak a compact hyper vehicle with conventional doors and up to 500 hp and boasting an extensive use of lightweight materials (CFRP, aluminium etc.) for building the chassis, body and interior: the SLC AMG. Moreover, in the last period, new hints have surfaced, indicating a new uber-class supercar with up to 700 hp out of a V12 unit might reach stores in the next five years.

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.