Our photographers recently returned from a death-defying mission in Germany with images that give us our best look yet at the upcoming 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe. As its name implies, it’s a four-door fastback coupe->ke141 variant of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC compact SUV->ke145 and will be positioned against the 2015 BMW X4. The GLC->ke4968 replaces the GLK->ke2078 and adheres to Merc’s->ke187 new naming conventions.

Mercedes previewed the GLC Coupe earlier this year at the Shanghai Auto Show->ke2470 with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV, and it appears to be a pretty good representation of what we see here. This pre-production test mule loses the AMG-esque->ke8 concept’s->ke169 deeper front fascia and larger wheels, but both will likely be available with higher trim levels. It also keeps that horizontal character line just below the side windows that accentuates the lower roofline.

Our snappers also tell us the GLC Coupe will get the same range of engines as the GLC, which likely means an entry-level 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder with 241 horsepower for the GLC300 Coupe and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 for the GLC400 Coupe with 329 horsepower. A GLC250 Coupe Bluetec diesel model could also be available, as well as a GLC63 AMG with a 468-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 if the demand is there.

Continue reading to learn more about the Mercedes GLC Coupe.

Why it matters

With its sloping roofline, the GLC Coupe won’t offer the same level of practicality as the GLC, but there is a healthy niche demand for these somewhat pointless coupe-crossover vehicles. It won’t outsell the GLC, but it will provide a more stylish option for image-conscious buyers.

We’re expecting the GLC Coupe to get its official debut at either the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show->ke211 or the 2016 Detroit Auto Show,->ke222 but in the meantime, you can read our full review here.

2016 Mercedes GLC Coupe

You can check our speculative review of the model here.