At the 2015 edition of Shanghai Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz unveils what is set to be its next big winner: the Concept GLC Coupé.
A continuation of the German marque's successful GLE Coupé formula, the concept vehicle nearing-production, targets a more compact segment.
Possessing stylistic features of a coupé and the rugged sensibilities of an SUV, the GLC is an emotively appealing fusion of two worlds.
With an external length of 4.73 metres and the 2.83-metre wheelbase, the two parent inspirations come together in the striking and muscular torso and elongated greenhouse (or "glasshouse), providing an ideal basis for the typical, almost dramatic proportions of the sportily youthful coupé generation with the characteristic off-road touch.
A twin-blade radiator grille, powerdomes on the bonnet and a four-pipe exhaust system complement the organic, almost biomorphic main body.
21-inch tyres, front and rear underbody protection, increased ground clearance and side running boards, reveal its off-road performance potential.
In the front, striking LED headlamps decisively shape the expressive face of the Concept GLC Coupé. All functions are united in one housing: for illumination, the daytime running lamps and turn indicators use the upper strip inserts, dubbed "eyebrows" by the designers.
Power-wise, a V6 powerplant delivering 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm makes for a highly sporty level of performance. Familiar from AMG sports models, the direct-injection biturbo engine is teamed with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive to provide the show car with emphatic acceleration while at the same time giving an acoustically audible note to the impressive performance.
Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG, comments "With its modern and sensual design idiom, the Concept GLC Coupé gives a foretaste of future SUV models from Mercedes-Benz. At the same time, it embraces the typical values of tradition-steeped Mercedes-Benz coupés".
The GLC is set to be an exciting addition to the Mercedes-Benz fleet, an SUV cousin to the other four-door coupés and Shooting Brakes of the CLS and CLA series.
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