Mercedes-Benz is reportedly considering launching a new SUV under the Maybach and Smart brand. The Maybach SUV is expected to be based on the next generation of the GL-class which is expected to be rebadged GLS under Mercedes new badging system. The Smart SUV or crossover is however expected to be based on the Smart Forfour/Renault Twingo platform.
Mercedes-Benz marketing chief Ola Kallenius has reportedly said that the Maybach brand could go beyond the current existing Maybach and Pullman models and that a GLS-based SUV was a possibility. The company is expected to use the next generation of the GLS that is due as early as 2017 as it will be based on a similar platform to the current S-class.
Mercedes is likely to focus mainly on luxury in the Maybach model, to keep it separate from the performance-based AMG models. Engines likely to make their way onto the Maybach models are the 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 used in the current Maybach model and a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 for a less-extravagant variant. The Maybach may not receive a diesel, and will be targeted mainly at the Chinese and American market.
The Smart SUV or crossover model could be a move by Mercedes to turn the brand into a long- term profit maker as the company always wanted it be. Mercedes-Benz CEO said there were likely to be engineering issues with the Smart SUV model because of its space-efficient rear engine/rear drive configuration but added that “if we were to go for any expansion for the Smart family, the SUV segment would be the one to look into.”
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
Dipan Sur
