Just as the Mercedes-Benz M-Class has been replaced
by the new GLE, the smaller GLK-Class is set to be replaced by a new model
called the “GLC”. The GLC is expected to make a world debut at the 2015
Frankfurt Auto Show in September but it’s not hard to extrapolate the basic
design and shape from prototypes, such as those featured in our exclusive spy
video above.
The GLC is slightly larger than the GLK it’s set to replace,
though it will still sit in the small SUV segment where it’s destined to do
battle with the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The bigger size should
translate to more interior space, an area where the GLK is outmatched by
rivals.
Beneath the skin will be a mechanical package shared with the
latest C-Class—a modular platform known as "MRA". And with the
new C-Class now being manufactured at Mercedes’ plant in the U.S., there’s a
small chance the new GLC will join it. The GLC will also get a right-hand-drive
configuration, enabling the vehicle to enter markets such as the U.K., Japan,
India and Australia, where the left-hand-drive-only GLK was never officially
sold.
A four-cylinder turbo should remain the base option, most
likely a 2.0-liter unit good for 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.
The GLK’s turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel should carry over, and a
gasoline V-6 should also be on offer, most likely a turbocharged 3.0-liter unit
good for 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The good news is that a high-performance
GLC63 is being developed by the Mercedes-AMG skunk works, and we
should also see a new AMG Sport variant as well as a plug-in hybrid at some
point.
Following the arrival of the GLC, Mercedes will unveil a GLS
model to replace the GL-Class. And at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show this
month, the German automaker will preview
a new GLC Coupe model with a thinly-veiled concept. The eventual production
GLC Coupe will serve as Mercedes’ rival to the BMW X4.
source: motorauthority
by Viknesh Vijayethiran
http://www.boscheuropean.com
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