Mercedes Developing Line of AMG-Lite Models

Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz unit is planning a new line of AMG Sport models with performance midway between standard Mercedes and full-blown AMG cars and crossovers.

The lineup will get more powerful engines and bolt-on exterior modifications, according to Autocar, which reported the plan several weeks ago.

The strategy mirrors rival Audi AG, whose S sport models slot into the company's lineup between its standard models and RS high-performance cars.

The first of the new Mercedes models, the C450 AMG Sport, will be unveiled in January at the Detroit auto show. The sedan will be powered by a twin-turbo V-6 engine that makes 367 hp. That's about 34 hp more than the standard C400 sedan but 100 hp less than the C63 AMG, which will use a twin-turbo V-8.

The new car is expected to be joined next year by an AMG Sport edition of Mercedes' upcoming M-Class coupe.

Autocar says Mercedes intends to roll out AMG Sport models in its A-, C-, E- and S-Class cars and GL-, M-, GLK- and GLA-Class crossovers.