Mercedes-Benz has started testing an AMG-badged version of its upcoming MLC. The new MLC that could be christened as ML- Coupé will take on the BMW X6 M.
The new car is likely to get a public debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, ahead of launching later next year.
The AMG-badged MLC will keep the bold styling and overall shape of the Concept Coupé SUV shown at the Beijing motor show earlier this year. However, this AMG variant will feature significantly larger front air intakes than the standard model, a more aggressive front bumper and the usual AMG performance exhausts at the rear. A stiffer suspension setup and new AMG alloy wheels are also expected,
Reports suggest this range-topping version of the MLC will use the same 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine as the ML63 AMG, which develops 518bhp and 71kgm of torque. With an optional performance package the car could have as much as 550bhp available.
The ML63 AMG Coupé will be aimed squarely at BMW's upcoming X6 M when it goes on sale. The X6 M is due to go on sale at the end of this year following its debut at the Los Angeles motor show in November. Power for the X6 M will come from a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the same unit found in the M5, which should provide 537bhp and 500lb ft of torque.
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