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Mercedes GLE Coupe spotted in almost undisguised AMG form

Say what you will regarding the form and function of the BMW X6, the bottom line is that BMW essentially pioneered a winning formula, sloping a roofline onto an existing model to make a new and highly lucrative) derivative. No wonder rival Mercedes-Benz is clamoring to follow suit with models like the one pictured here. Under development for some time now, the model originally slated to be called the MLC and now expected to be dubbed GLE Coupe looks about ready for its big debut. It's based on the replacement for the current M-Class (to be rechristened GLE) but with that vital sloping roofline to make it more rakish. This particular example seems to be an AMG version and was spied with only minimal camouflage around the front and rear bumpers while undergoing testing in snowy climes. That could be the full-on GLE63 AMG performance variant, or the new AMG Sport model destined to debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month. If it's the former, expect it to be packing the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 as the new Mercedes-AMG GT, where it produces either 462 horsepower or 510 depending on spec - ready to take on the X6 M and whatever Audi is preparing to throw at it.

Maybach crossover looking more likely, Smart crossover possible

Mercedes-Benz executives are still making positive noises about the chances of a Mercedes-Maybach SUV. Following Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche's answer of "most likely" at the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes Cars head of sales and marketing Ola Kallenius told Autocar that a Maybach SUV based on the next-generation GLS is "the more likely scenario." That's the same Kallenius that told Automotive News just last November that "we have no plans for it [a Maybach SUV]." It's a subtle shift, to be sure, but it's still a shift. The GLS – introduced as the latest-generation GL in 2013 – is still undergoing testing for its its mid-cycle refresh, so a Maybach version is a few years off. That would, coincidentally, give Mercedes time to see how the other super-luxe entrants are faring, and prepare its charge accordingly. Autocar expects that should it be built, it will come when the GLS shifts to the S-Class platform and most likely get the twin-turbo V12 from the Mercdes-Maybach S600 sedan, although the company's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 is possible if there are strong intentions for the Chinese market. Also on Stuttgart's agenda of dreams is a Smart crossover, according to the report. It could be Smart's best chance at profitably extending the range, based on the mania for tiny utes, and that would help both Daimler and the ForTwo's Renault Twingo sibling. It sounds like this is a ways off, though, due to coming up with an engineering solution for the Smart's engine packaging. Related Video:

Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet fetches record $1.4 million at auction

Alas, G-Wagen fans: The last available 2017 Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet has sold to a private Belgian buyer, with all proceeds to benefit the children's sports charity the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. The price tag at the Zoute Sale at Bonhams was a record ˆ1.2 million, or about $1.4 million. We previously dubbed the luxury off-roader " the ultimate safari machine" for its super-extravagant features. Its soft top can be raised or lowered electronically, as can a glass partition to the driver's compartment (wouldn't be a Landaulet without that, now would it, Jeeves?). What's more, the two rear seats can be fully reclined, with leg rests extending from below, and with access to folding tables, 10-inch LCD screen and heated, cooled and illuminated (!) cup holders. As it has the number 650 in its name, however, the Landaulet also features a twin-turbocharged V12 that generates 630 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Bringing up the G-Wagen part of the bargain is a four-wheel-drive system with front, center, and rear differential locks, that sends power to solid portal axles front and rear, which move the differential and drive axles above the wheel centers for additional ground clearance. The grandest G sold Friday in Brussels was reportedly straight from the factory and one of only 99 to be built. No G650 Landaulets were sold in the United States. The Bonhams Motoring Department's fifth annual Zoute Sale also saw the purchase of a 1968 Ferrari 365 GTC Coupe for ˆ805,000 euros ($945,000), the second most-valuable lot of the sale. Related Video: