Mercedes' Second Coupe SUV

Mercedes is in the midst of rebuilding its SUV model names. The "GL" designation signifies an SUV, and the subsequent alphabet indicates the class, or body size. What Mercedes unveiled at the current Shanghai Motor Show is the "Concept GLC Coupe." As the name suggests, although it is a concept model, this new vehicle will have a body size equivalent to the "C-Class" in the sedan lineup.

To put it more simply, the "GLC Coupe" is the coupe version of an SUV whose body size is equivalent to the current "GLK" successor model, added as a variation. While it might seem slightly confusing that the coupe version was announced first, it's best to think of it as the GLK undergoing a full model change, with its name changing to "GLC," and a stylish coupe model being added to the lineup simultaneously.

This is similar to the relationship between the "GLE Coupe" announced at the Detroit Motor Show and the base model "GLE" announced at the recent New York Motor Show. Therefore, the GLC, which should be the base model, is expected to be unveiled at some point. Incidentally, the "GLC Coupe" is positioned as the smaller sibling to the "GLE Coupe."

It's akin to the relationship between BMW's"X5" and "X6."While BMW uses odd-numbered models for the base vehicle and even-numbered models for the coupe, Mercedes simply adds the word "Coupe" after the model name to indicate the body style.

The strategy of announcing the derivative model first is likely intended to generate buzz and impact for the new model. The numbers following the three letters "GLC" in the name indicate the engine type (displacement or equivalent power), following Mercedes' traditional naming convention.

Design Merging Mercedes' SUV and Coupe DNA

The Concept GLC Coupe measures 4,727mm in length, 2,000mm in width, and 1,593mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,827mm. In comparison, the current GLK measures 4,536mm in length, 1,840mm in width, and 1,669mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,755mm (European figures), giving it a noticeably larger presence.

Considering it's a concept model and the coupe version was revealed first, it's safe to say the overall size has increased compared to the GLK. For reference, the GLE Coupe is even larger, measuring 4,900mm in length, 2,003mm in width, and 1,731mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,915mm.

The front face design can be described as an evolution of the modern Mercedes SUV design, following in the footsteps of the "GLA" and "GLE."

The Mercedes-Benz "three-pointed star" emblem on the front grille features a single horizontal bar, similar to the GLE Coupe. In contrast, the GLE has a two-bar design. This design treatment is likely to be consistently used to differentiate coupe and base models going forward.

The air intakes on the sides of the bumper, the "A-wing" spoiler design below them, and the underguard design, characteristic of SUVs, all contribute to a balanced expression of a powerful fusion between an SUV and a coupe, hinting at its dynamic capabilities.

The striking LED headlights, reminiscent of sculpted light, are another hallmark of the Concept GLC Coupe. The daytime running lights, which designers refer to as "eyebrows," are larger than before. Below them, LED lights appear to float in three-dimensional space. These LED headlights feature three movable lenses that adapt to driving conditions such as road surface and weather, with low beam, high beam, and cornering lights actively ensuring forward visibility at night, adjusting to the driving scene and the presence of oncoming vehicles.

The greenhouse, which is as low in height as the current "CLS", the gently sloping rear window that tapers towards the back, and the simple, horizontally oriented LED taillights all evoke the image of a Mercedes coupe.

The vertically stacked muffler tips, the large-diameter tires (255/50R21 front, 285/45R21 rear), and the 8J x 21 front and 9.5J x 21 rear wheels contribute to a sporty image that justifies the "coupe" designation.

Rivals Include BMW X4 and Lexus RX

The Concept GLC Coupe is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine producing a maximum output of 270 kW (367 hp) and a peak torque of 520 Nm (53.0 kgm). This is the same power unit already found in the "GLE 450 AMG Coupe."

Given this, it's not unreasonable to assume that the design unveiled at the Shanghai show is intended for an AMG version, even though Mercedes has not explicitly stated it.

The drive system for the Concept GLC Coupe has only been announced as 4MATIC, meaning all-wheel drive. However, the "GLE 450 AMG Coupe" features a torque split of 40:60, favoring the rear wheels to provide a more RWD-like driving experience. It's possible that a similar on-road-oriented setup will be applied to the 4MATIC system in this model as well.

While the door handles, side mirrors, and taillight design may be show car embellishments, the overall design is expected to transition to the production model largely as is. When the "GLC Coupe" eventually arrives, shedding its "Concept" moniker, it will undoubtedly engage in fierce sales competition with the highly anticipated BMW ""X4" and Lexus' "RX". An SUV with body dimensions comparable to the C-Class should also be well-received in the Japanese market.