Spy Shots - Mercedes Benz SLC AMG prototype caught on test

Back in April 2012, we had reported that Mercedes Benz is planning on a lil' brother for its racy SLS AMG model to challenge the likes of the Porsche 911, Nissan GT-R, Aston Martin V8 Vantage and even the upcoming Jaguar F-Type. Later on, the German automaker confirmed the name of the baby SLS AMG as the 'SLC', which is still a production name around the time of Beijing Auto Show. And now the first-ever images of the Mercedes Benz SLC AMG test mule has been snagged doing test rounds near the Nurburgring, giving us the first taste of the upcoming baby SLS AMG. 

Wearing heavy body panels of the SLS AMG, the SLC will be roughly 150mm shorter than its big brother and will ride on a more compact platform. Stand out differences include chopped panels and a shorter front overhang. The front and the rear section of the car has been heavily concealed, suggesting that it's wearing some of the final car's components, possibly for aero and cooling. 

As a more 'entry-level' offering and with light-weight construction as a top priority, expect the SLC AMG to ditch the SLS AMG gulling doors for conventional doors. However, a cabriolet version with a fabric top is expected by 2016. 

The SLC’s powertrain details remain a mystery at this stage. Some international reports have suggested it will come standard with a V8, ranging in size from a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre to a naturally aspirated 5.5-litre, while others believe Mercedes will offer a budget version with a less powerful but more fuel efficient V6.

As the baby SLS is still in the early stages of development, we don't expect to see it launch in the International market any sooner than 2014, after which it will certainly find its way into India by the end of 2014 or early 2015. 

Stay tuned to OnCars for more updates on the development of the Mercedes Benz SLC AMG. 

Image credit - Teamspeed.com