REPORT: Dr. Z confirms future SLS replacement supercar

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This week's major event that held the media and public attention was undoubtfully the Geneva Motor Show. As always at these occassions, there's chance hot insight on certain upcoming models is revealed during interviews with the press.

It was also the case for Mercedes-Benz as company's head Dr. Dieter Zetsche admitted a replacement for the current SLS AMG supercar is already on the development table. Moreover, Zetsche further mentioned Mercedes-Benz will release a concept car that teases the future so-called SLC AMG (project C 190) anytime soon.

Arriving on the market towards 2016, the new rocket will be the opera of Affalterbach engineers like the SLS AMG. The styling will be more dynamic and modern, thus dropping the classic, retro design of the current model. There will be no Gullwing doors, as they add quite an impressive weight to the car and can affect dynamics.

Expect a new 4.0-litre V8 engine featuring direct injection and twin-turbocharging technology. As initial reports indicate, the new powerplant will be available in two power stages - 485 hp and 585 hp. The entry-level SLC AMG will likely be powered by the new V6 engine rated at 333 hp. The model could also feature an all-wheel-drive chassis as standard equipment instead of the rear-driven solution.

Extensive use of carbon fiber and aluminium for the development of the chassis and components will ensure the kerb weight stays as low as possible. Aimed at Porsche 911, the new supercar from Mercedes-AMG should boast a purchase price below 100,000 euros to stay competitive and attractive to clients.

More details:

- REPORT: Future Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG supercar arriving in 2016

Note: SLS AMG pictured.

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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REPORT: Future Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG supercar arriving in 2016

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The anticipated mid-range supercar engineered by the Affalterbach-based firm is slated to hit streets in around 3 years from now, according to latest rumors. Although during spring 2012 there were numerous reports the outcome of the SLC AMG is put under question amidst expected high development costs, it now looks the new Star-badged performance vehicle is ever closer to serial production.

The C 190 project is intended to be a versatile, fun to drive and attractively priced mid-sized supercar to compete with Porsche 911 and Lamborghini Gallardo. First test mules should start on-road development in early 2014, whereas the first camouflaged, finished design test prototypes could appear towards the end of next year. Then we will likely depict the general silhouette, which allegedly boasts aerodynamic supercar proportions with a low centre of gravity and sleek design, unlike the retro-styled SLS AMG. There will be no Gullwing doors, but conventional ones (maybe upward opening "scissors"?), to shave off important kilograms, improve bodyshell rigidity and ride dynamics. Through 2017, a roadster version (R 190) of the SLC AMG, using a low-weight retractable cloth roof, could also arrive in the family.

The future SLC AMG will receive company's brand new twin-turbo V8 engine with a total displacement of 4.0 litres. In its most powerful version, this new powerplant, featuring state-of-the-art direct injection, cylinder management and further solutions to increase efficiency, boasts no less than 585 hp. A slightly less powerful variant of the same eight-cylinder unit, this time developing 485 hp, will also be offered for the new SLC AMG, while the entry-level model will be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine rated at 333 hp. Power transmission to the rear axle will be the job of a new AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch 7-speed automatic gearbox which sends the torque through a limited slip differential.

The rear-wheel-drive architecture of the C 190 will be engineered from zero - the super-tweaked technical platform of the SLS AMG Black Series and Merc's new MRA rear-driven underpinnings should serve as inspiration for more cohesion and a smoother implementation. A new generation of the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension management system, as well as high performance, forged alloy/ceramic brakes and an enhanced 3-stage ESP, will also be fitted to the new SLC AMG.

Standard pricing for the Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG variants will spread over the €80,000 - €140,000 interval in Europe. The supercar is also bound to reach showrooms from the United States and China in 2017, at similar, currency updated price tags. In the upcoming years, we could get a preview of the SLC AMG in the form of a concept car to bow at one of the major auto shows, but that is still an assumption. If the sales of the "electrifying" SLS AMG go well, the C 190 might also receive an Electric Drive variant in 2018, while a range-topping, hardcore Black Series version for the SLC AMG is rather unlikely at the moment, given the high-end 585 hp model. However, it is highly possible the SLS AMG gets discontinued the same year the SLC AMG comes into force, as this future model is already seen as a replacement for the current Merc supercar.

Image Credits: Autocar

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PREVIEW: New insight into AMG's future rocket models - SLS AMG Black Series & Co.

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The Mercedes-AMG GmbH division is in charge of turning Mercedes-Benz standard vehicles into fully equipped athletes. The extension of the current portfolio with new additions is one of the main parts of the AMG Performance 2015 growth strategy that was implemented back in 2010. We hear the German firm headquartered in Affalterbach has some pretty hot stuff hidden in the pipeline and ready to bow in the near future. Find out more in the next paragraphs.

The first of the series is the new SLS AMG Black Series, the sixth of its kind since the limited edition series was launched in 2005. The car comes packed with the naturally aspirated V8 with 6,208 cubic centimeters, which now pumps out no less than 630 hp, according to latest information. In fact, the new SLS AMG Black Series is a street-legal replica of the SLS AMG GT3 racing model which will be assembled in more than 100 units compared to the recently launched "45th ANNIVERSARY" collectors' model, available in just 5 units. Expect a widebody kit, numerous aerodynamic profiles and air intakes for effective cooling of the braking system and engine, as well as a minimal package of comfort equipments. Substantial use of aluminium, carbon fibre, magnesium and other light-mass compounds, in addition to stripping off any unnecessary gadgets, will definitely improve the kerb weight and the dynamic performance of the beast. Look for the new SLS AMG Black Series to make its first public appearance next month, at the Los Angeles Motor Show 2012 (30th November to 9th December).

Next on the list is the new A 45 AMG compact sports hatch. Specially for this model, engineers have developed a dynamic 4x4 platform based on the 4MATIC traction system. The new underpinnings are required to enhance ride, stability, handling and safety. New is the 4-cylinder engine under the bonnet as well: no less than 350 hp and over 400 Nm are the anticipated values for the 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant. The impressive output will be transferred to the four wheels through a double-clutch 7-speed sequential gearbox in a variable front-to-rear ratio depending on the tractive circumstance. The new A 45 AMG will also be fitted with the latest technology that has already debuted on several other models prepared in Affalterbach. We anticipate the world premiere will take place next year, at the Geneva Motor Show 2013. Soon after, in mid-summer, Mercedes-Benz will also showcase their new CLA 45 AMG performance four-door coupe, featuring an identical technical package.

Continuing the wave of new models is the revised E 63 AMG lineup. For the first time in the history of the E-Class, the subsequent sports model will be standardly equipped with a completely new all-wheel-drive system, which aims to deliver more driving sensation, better predictability and extra security. This major shift from the rear-driven platform to the 4x4 traction is a must as the output of the 5.5-litre V8 with biturbocharging will be increased from 525 to 557 hp. Moreover, the sporty character will also be highlighted thanks to the new visual identity, which brings along an all new Star grille with distinctive twin-blade design. The new-generation Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG models (W 212) will celebrate their debut next year, during spring, at the New York Motor Show in April.

The future 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG (W 205) is next on our list. Even though details are scarce at the moment and the test prototypes have just hit streets some days ago, a few hints have surfaced from somewhere inside the factory. It looks that Mercedes-AMG is already developing a brand new 4.0-litre 8-cylinder unit to power the next generation of its C 63 AMG. Featuring state-of-the-art technologies for reduced fuel consumption and low CO2 emission figures, the direct-injection, turbocharged, gasoline powerplant could easily crank out at least 470 hp and more than 650 Nm. Moreso, given the latest trend, the future C 63 AMG might also use 4x4 instead rear-wheel-drive. Last, but not least: although yet to be confirmed, the designation of the new model could change to C 55 AMG. Official reveal is scheduled for late 2014.

Last, but not least, the sub-SLS supercar saga sees a new chapter, as new information confirms the 2015 SLC AMG will eventually be built. Mercedes-Benz have reconsidered plans amid the challenging market situation and found the introduction of a more accessible, mid-sized supermodel as a positive sign for a strong growth of the AMG division, which would add up to the financial performance of the entire company. Most probably, the new SLC AMG will arrive by 2015 and sport a more dynamic, yet conventional design. No more gullwing doors, an aluminium spaceframe for ensuring a lightweight body, several new assistance systems and a new engine with around 400 hp of peak output are the arguments the "Porsche 911 killer" has in order to beat the legendary rival from Zuffenhausen.

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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REPORT: 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG launch delayed

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A supposedly unofficially confirmed rumor coming from inside Mercedes-Benz has shaken the automotive industry these days. It appears that, after a close analysis, the executives have decided to apply a setback to the SLC AMG supercar, once slated to be released as series product in the second part of 2014.

The main concern is the fact this project could be too resource-consuming for the company in its current shape and therefore it was sent all the way to the development table again, to see if costs can somehow be decisively reduced for the sake of motoring enthusiasm. We feel fans don't have to worry the SLC AMG might be put to rest in the end, as the car was already given the greenlight for production some months ago. All in all, the new mid-sized hyper model baring the Star logo should be publicly revealed towards 2016, with the postponement taken into consideration.

Based on the global success of the SLS AMG, the little brother SLC is already looking to be an ace in the fleet of the Affalterbach-based firm. A more dynamic body with conventional doors and possibly two new engine choices, V6 and V8 - both of them biturbocharged, a peak output in excess of 500 hp and a complete sports ride management package from AMG are the tough arguments in the fight against the Porsche 911, the main target the SLC is aiming for.

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: First sighting of the future 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG supercar

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Ever since the SLS AMG was out, there has been an intense speculation regarding the growing chances of seeing a new supercar from the Affalterbach-based firm, sloted right below the modern Gullwing. These are the very first spy shots that depict an early test mule for the long-rumored SLC AMG, set to hit streets in late 2014.

Engineers are using a modified SLS AMG body kit to test the hidden technical components of the forthcoming hyper vehicle. The heavy camouflage hides important sections from the front, side and rear areas like the revamped air intakes, the different sills, the new posterior apron and the gas exhaust system. The new SLC AMG will feature conventional doors, shorther engine bonnet and overhangs and a more aerodynamic shape of the exterior.

There are little known facts about this new Merc supercar, but we do know from the past reports that the 2015 SLC AMG will target the Porsche 911, the all-time sports legend, the guide mark and the toughest contender in the segment. The car will sit on a modified SLS technical platform, while power will come from an all new turbocharged V8 engine, with a total displacement of 5.0 litres and a peak output between 450 hp and 500 hp. The expected entry price should be located somewhere around 100,000 euros.

It is still premature to talk more on the new SLC AMG, but there's likelihood a roadster version will follow the coupe in 2015 or 2016. Chances are to see a hardcore Black Series variant as well towards 2017, with near 600 hp, but this is just pure speculation at the moment. For now, we can just sit down and wait for the sarabande to begin as more inside details, renderings and scoops will start surfacing on the internet.

You might also be interested in reading the next articles:

- REPORT: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG is one step further from becoming reality
- REPORT: AMG official confirms plans to build new sub-SLS supercar
- Future Projects: New details on the upcoming SLC AMG supercar surface
- Future Projects: the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLC eyes supremacy in the hypercar segment

Image Credits: Motor Authority

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