Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG caught in the cold

The testing program for the coupe internally codenamed C190 continues in the snow, but when it breaks out into the sunshine we'll know it as perhaps the Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG or GT AMG. Adorned in the same camo outfit as the last time we saw it in December, it could be out working the rumored all-wheel-drive system that will make it more amenable to less-than-perfect weather. That's another way the coupe called the replacement for the SLS AMG is more accurately a new and different model, since the SLC is expected to cost half as much and compete with the Porsche 911 instead of cars in the $200K price bracket.

There are various reports about whether a convertible version is planned, most of them saying Mercedes-Benz has ruled it out, reserving judgment that one could come later if the car is a success. It seems strange to us, though, to take on the 911 without a convertible since every other car in the category has one as well. Late last year, there were rumblings of a debut at the German Grand Prix during the weekend of July 18-20.