What is Mercedes testing here? Mysterious Mule car with future SL platform?

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The only thing sure with the car in these photos: It’s not going to happen! A shortened Mercedes S class coupé wouldn’t make any sense considering Mercedes is hard working to ready the E class coupe and has already presented a C-class coupe a while ago. In fact, the car pictured is a mule – and this is one of the rare moments we’re not sure what’s underneath the fake body.
As it’s an AMG model – an S63 to be precise – the car could be a first mule for the rumoured 4 door AMG GT. But wouldn’t the testers then use a converted AMG GT coupe…? Much more likely is that we’re here looking at a first chassis mule for the next-generation Mercedes SL, due out in 2020.
It is known the company is working on a modular chassis for the next SL and SLK, and it will be just one of many changes for the droptop models. The new platform will underpin the company's sports cars, including the SL in 2020 and SLK in 2019. This solution will mean cheaper development costs and more shared parts. However, it will also provide a performance advantage with a lower mounting position for the engine and transmission.
The SL and SLK will also see major changes to their roofs. The new SL will move from its current folding hardtop to a fabric top to save weight and go for a more classic design. On the other hand, the SLK will stick with its current retractable hardtop. In terms of future engines, Mercedes' rumoured 3.0-litre inline-six is going to make up most of the SL's engine options with 365-horsepower and 435-hp versions.

Footage copyright Automedia

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