Mercedes Plans High-End Coupé to Challenge Bentley Continental GT
Mercedes-Benz is developing a luxury coupé positioned above the CLS, targeting Bentley’s Continental GT with a dramatic design and AMG performance credentials.
Mercedes-Benz is preparing to enter the luxury coupé market dominated by the Bentley Continental GT, with a new high-performance model set to sit above the CLS in the brand’s line-up. According to sources cited by Autocar, the project is internally described as an “über-CLS”, promising a more dramatic design and AMG-developed engines and chassis.
The new model is expected to push Mercedes further into the territory traditionally held by British luxury brands. While the CLS has long served as the brand’s four-door coupé, this new car is said to feature a more imposing design language and a focus on high performance, using AMG powertrains as standard. The intention is to offer a credible alternative to the Bentley Continental GT, which has established itself as the benchmark for luxury grand tourers since its introduction.
Maybach variant under consideration
There is also speculation that the new coupé could spawn a Maybach version, reviving the ultra-luxury sub-brand for a two-door grand tourer. This follows renewed interest in high-end, bespoke models after the limited-run Xenatec 57S Cruiserio Maybach coupé, which attracted attention for its exclusivity and design. A Maybach-badged version would allow Mercedes to compete directly with Bentley and Rolls-Royce in the highest echelons of the luxury coupé segment.
No official confirmation or launch date
Mercedes has not officially confirmed the project, nor has it provided a timeline for launch or technical details beyond the likely use of AMG engines. The company’s move reflects a broader trend among German manufacturers to expand into the luxury coupé sector, where demand for high-performance, high-prestige models remains strong.
The Bentley Continental GT, which the new Mercedes is targeting, continues to set the standard for luxury coupés. For more on the current Continental GT, seeBentley Continental GT V8 Heading to Detroit.
