Mercedes-Benz Considering Even More Luxurious SUVs

A Mercedes-Maybach SUV could be the next addition to the brand’s ultra-luxury lineup.

Like many other automakers, Mercedes-Benz is looking to take advantage of the booming crossover and SUV segments with a portfolio of products that appeal to everyone. Currently, the company’s lineup is already expansive with the GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS and G-Wagon offerings but that might not be enough.

In the future, the German automaker is already planning to add new crossovers as part of its EQ electric sub-brand, including one planned to launch in 2019. But speaking to Car and Driver, the company’s R&D head Ola Källenius confirmed more models could be in the pipeline.

“I don’t believe SUVs have peaked,” he said. “Twenty years ago when we launched the first M-class—now the GLE—we were the first people to venture into the premium-SUV segment, and it was unclear how that would develop. “We have more ideas in that segment, but that doesn’t mean the passenger sedan is dead. I think the key is variety. The individual wishes of customers also drive our ability to widen the portfolio.”

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Considering it has most segments already covered with the current lineup, it’s expected that Mercedes is mulling a Maybach ultra-luxurious model, targeting the Bentley Bentayga and high-end Range Rover models. It would be a bit like the Maybach versions of the current S-Class sedan and although it wasn’t confirmed, Källenius hinted that such a model could exist. “We’re watching that [space] very carefully,” he added. “The GLS in our portfolio is the S-Class of SUVs. Could we do more? Possibly, yes.”

[Source: Car and Driver]

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