Mercedes-Benz Readies Coupelike Crossover

Next year Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz unit is expected to begin making a production version of the Concept Coupe SUV it unveiled at the Beijing auto show.

The new model, which reportedly will be called the MLC, will share the company's M-Class platform and be built at the company's SUV factory in Vance, Ala.

Measuring about 6.5 feet wide and 16.5 feet long, the crossover will join the compact GLA lineup, targeting the BMW X6 and Audi Q7 in the hot compact sport SUV segment.

A twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine (328 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque) will power the MLC. Mated to a 9-speed automatic and all-wheel drivetrain, it will offer four programmable transmission modes. Other engine options will include a V-6 turbodiesel, twin-turbocharged 4.6-liter V-8, and twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8.

The concept rides on 22-inch tires and features a sporty front fascia with an aggressive grille and LED headlights. A thin band of LED taillights finishes its fastback-like rear. Notable technology includes digital turn-signals that light up sequentially toward the turn and an Active Curve System that leans the vehicle into corners.

Since BMW introduced the X6 coupe-style SUV in 2008, luxury brands have been expanding their SUV lineups. The segment is critical as premium SUV sales will surge 32% to 4.9 million vehicles in 2020, with the strongest growth coming from China, according to IHS Automotive.