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Mercedes-Maybach spied inside and out sporting the huge S-Class screen

A new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is well on its way, and that means a new Mercedes-Maybach is following right behind it. We were introduced to the new Mercedes-Maybach strategy over five years ago. At the end of 2019, Mercedes added to the small collection with the GLS 600, bringing an SUV into the Maybach fold. These spy shots mark our first good look inside and outside the next-gen Mercedes-Maybach sedan. We’ll point out the massive screen first. Photos of this huge slab of screen have largely shown it turned off. Now, we get a solid look at the display all lit up and running MercedesÂ’ next iteration of MBUX. The icons and UX look a whole lot like MercedesÂ’ current infotainment system design, just blown up to a much larger size. Mercedes is surely going to hit us with some new out-there features we didnÂ’t know we wanted and may not even use, but thatÂ’s the way it goes with excessive luxury. The gauge cluster is pretty standard for new Mercedes with a flat digital screen. An “EQ” emblem displayed in the cluster also indicates that Mercedes plans to implement its EQ Boost mild-hybrid tech with the turbocharged engine(s) offered in this new generation. The current car comes in S560 (V8) and S600 (V12) variations. We don't know what MercedesÂ’ powertrain plans are for the time being, but the GLS 600 uses 48-volt technology with its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and makes 550 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque. Ideally, the smooth and silky V12 sticks around in the top-shelf S-Class as well. As for the design, itÂ’s exactly what one might expect from a Mercedes-Maybach. The wheelbase is stretched compared to the regular S-Class weÂ’ve spied before, and it has the signature slatted grille. Pop-out door handles appear to be carried over from the new S-Class, too. We expect the new S-Class isnÂ’t far from a reveal. ThereÂ’s a chance it still breaks cover this year, even as most automakers face delays from the coronavirus. Once itÂ’s out, the Mercedes-Maybach is likely to follow soon after. Related video:

Daimler buying 12% stake in Beijing Auto

Daimler and Beijing Automotive are officially going steady, with the German company set to take a 12-percent stake in the Chinese brand tomorrow. The two are already tied up in a Mercedes engine plant in Beijing, of which BAIC will increase its stake in, from 50 to 51 percent. Daimler will also get two seats on the Chinese company's board. BAIC may also gain the ability to produce cars on Mercedes-Benz platforms, according to Automotive News Europe.
The investment in BAIC comes ahead of that company's initial public offering, according to a report form Bloomberg, which indicates the deal will be inked tomorrow in the Chinese capital. According to the report, if the circumstances are right, BAIC may turn around and invest in the Germany company "soon."
It's not entirely clear just how much the 12-percent cut is costing Daimler, although it seems reasonable to assume that, as it's ahead of the IPO, the parent company of Mercedes is getting a bit of a bargain.

2018 Range Rover Sport Coupe spied in Scotland

Sport utility vehicles are the rage. SUVs with coupe styling are pretty popular, too, as BMW and Mercedes have demonstrated. Now it's Land Rover's turn. Believed to be the upcoming Range Rover Sport Coupe, this ute was spied this week during top secret testing at a remote location in Scotland. The vehicle would slot between the Range Rover Sport and Evoque, giving Land Rover an answer to the Mercedes GLE and BMW X6. These shots show what appears to be a chopped roofline, giving the new model a sportier profile than the traditional upright silhouette of Rovers. We expect it will use a version of the aluminum Jaguar F-Pace platform and offer V6 and V8 engines. It could also offer a hybrid or full electric version. The new crossover might also be lower set in a bid to differentiate it from traditional Rovers and give it a performance vibe. The Range Rover Sport Coupe – or whatever it is ultimately called – would enter a strong segment that's found favor in the United States. Once derided for potentially offering less function than traditional utes, these lifestyle vehicles have developed a strong following for their style and capability. The X6 was so successful, BMW added the smaller X4, and this forced Mercedes to follow suit with the GLE and GLC coupe variants. In this context, it's about time for Land Rover to join the fray. Related Video: Featured Gallery 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Coupe View 12 Photos Image Credit: KGP Photography Design/Style Spy Photos BMW Land Rover Mercedes-Benz