According to Automotive News, the launch of the Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG at the Detroit Auto Show in January will be the first step in a plan to bridge Mercedes-Benz models and the high-performance/high-price AMG vehicles. By offering midlevel AMG models, Mercedes will be able to appeal to a wider market and improve sales with those who want a bit more performance without the heftier price tag of the AMG.
The C450 will slot between the Mercedes-Benz C400 and C63 AMG, setting the tempo for future gap-fillers in the CLA-Class, E-Class, and GLK-Class lines. These models will not offer quite the same level of performance as the AMG models (the C450 is no slouch with a twin-turbo V6), but they will feature distinguishing visual cues to set them apart from the standard Mercedes-Benz models. It’s anticipated that this modifications will be limited to trim, cladding, and wheels.
Auto News likens the move to Cadillac’s V-Sport line and BMW’s M Performance series. This should enable Mercedes to grab a good chunk of their competitors’ lunch, as those lines offer performance hounds more budget savvy rides that still offer a lot of punch.
Expect more details on midlevel AMG models to emerge around NAIAS.
Source: Automotive News
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