SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML Coup� a.k.a. MLC (C 292) spotted in the U.S.

In January 2015, Mercedes-Benz will launch its first Sports Utility Coup� (SUC). The new ML Coup�, which was previously known as the MLC, will showcase on the stage of the NAIAS Detroit. The radical design is inspired by the Concept Coup� SUV, which Mercedes-Benz highlighted in April at Auto China 2014 in Beijing.

Although this fact is yet to be confirmed, Mercedes-Benz has decided to drop the proposal for the �MLC� name and will eventually go instead for the title �ML Coup� which is intended to better link the car to the popular M-Class in addition to highlighting the special coup� quality it has through the homonymous particle. This naming strategy obeys the latest rules of the brand, which is the same for the C-, E- and S-Class two-door models.

The future C 292 series is described by the characteristical roofline, which drops towards the rear end in an even manner, just like on a standard Mercedes-Benz two-door or four-door coupe. The stylish architecture is doubled by the impressive dimensions the ML Coup� has. The muscular wheel arches, the high ground clearance, the massive tail area with its gate-integrated spoiler and the aggressive fascia make up the ID card of this fashionable new Mercedes-Benz family member.

The front end is particularly interesting, as it heralds the introduction of a new design identity strictly reserved for the SUV the Stuttgart-based constructor builds. The radiator grille with its large Mercedes-Benz star located in the centre displays a grey-fence pattern, while the single louvre fuses to the three-pointed symbol and embraces it in a circular way. This styling motif will also be introduced on the upcoming M-Class and GL-Class facelift models.

The new ML Coup� will boast the new MULTIBEAM LED intelligent light system which was premiered on the new Mercedes-Benz CLS Facelift lineup. Apart from that, the SUC will also benefit from the addition of the INTELLIGENT DRIVE technologies, as well as of the new generation COMAND Online with Touchpad and Head Up Display. The ACTIVE CURVE system from the GL and the Active Tilting function that debuted on the all new S-Class Coup� are also possible equipments.

Mercedes-Benz will position its ML Coup� as a high-end, niche model, placed between the M-Class and the GL-Class. Thus it will mate the new vehicle with range-topping powering units. All the engines will come fitted with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard. The entry-level variant will be the ML 400 Coup� with 333 hp, followed up closely by the ML 450 Coup� with 367 hp. The ML 500 Coup� could feature the peak-output version of the 4.7-litre V8 BITURBO which delivers 455 hp. Mercedes-AMG will also stick its hands onto the new C 292 generation. Following the introduction of the standard ML Coup� in January 2015, during summer of next year the Affalterbach labs will release two mindblowing creations. The first is the ML 63 AMG Coup� powered by the 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO producing 557 hp and 585 hp as an S-Model. The latter, which is the icing on the cake, is the rumored ML 65 AMG Coup� which will the M279 12-cylinder biturbocharged unit with 630 hp.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright � 2014, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: 2015 Mercedes-Benz MLC-Class (C 292) test mules snagged at Nurburgring

After some months with no news on the future MLC, spy photographers were able to capture new images of the test mules used to develop the C 292 SUV coupe at Nurburgring. These vehicles display a shorter clearance, a slightly enlarged wheelbase and modified wheel arches to house the new underpinnings until the finished ("frozen") design body comes into force.

In January, we were getting the first look at the forthcoming MLC-Class as the first test vehicles got out. Like then, the M-Class W 166 mules are still used to hide the new chassis of the car. The C 292 model series will be using a slightly different M-Class platform, modified with sharper settings for ensuring better driving dynamics, given the fact the MLC is intended to be a dynamic SUV coupe.

Arriving in early 2015, the new MLC-Class will sport a radical styling, so do not expect an evolution of the bland design seen on the M-Class. Inspiration might also come from the latest Mercedes-Benz concepts, in addition to obeying the latest philosophy. The cabin will have four seats and will boast refined materials, improved functionality and connectivity and a slightly different dashboard than on the W 166 and X 166.

Technology will be at the highest level whether we talk about drive management, assistance, safety or telematics. The latest generation of PRE-SAFE, Crosswind Assist, DIRECT STEER, AIRMATIC suspension, Head Up Display, the DISTRONIC PLUS with Traffic Assist, the COMAND Online with internet access and Car-to-X communication will certainly equip the new MLC. The engine range will be shared with the GL-Class and M-Class, so there will be a choice to suit every taste and driver from the frugal MLC 250 BlueTEC up to the grumpy MLC 63 AMG. The new 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox will be standard equipment for most MLC versions. Insiders suggest a hardcore MLC 65 AMG will also be launched, sporting a thoroughly revised M279 V12 engine rated at 630 hp.

Image Credits: Worldcarfans

Copyright � 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.