Mercedes-AMG rules out B-Class, EQC, vans – report

Mercedes-AMG chief Tobias Moers told Motor Trend the vehicles which won’t be getting the AMG treatment – and it’s a short list.

Firstly, there’ll be no AMG variants of Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vans. That should come as no surprise.

Though the B-Class’s MFA2 platform-mates – the A-Class, CLA-Class and upcoming GLB-Class and GLA-Class – will be available in AMG tune, Mercedes's MPV will miss out on a hi-performance model. While that mightn’t sound surprising, let’s remember there was a deliciously silly AMG version of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class 'family tourer'.

Those buyers seeking a compact Mercedes with AMG performance will have to either settle for the less practical A/CLA/GLA or shell out for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GLB35. The GLB has an edge over the B-Class, too, as it has a third row of seats.

Those who merely want the appearance of an AMG without the increase in performance should be satisfied by the availability of the AMG Line package on the B-Class. In addition to styling tweaks like unique 18-inch wheels and a body kit, the sports package adds a lowered suspension, sports seats and Sports Direct-Steer system.

Finally, there’ll be no AMG version of Mercedes-Benz’s new electric crossover, the EQC. Moers didn’t offer an explanation for this, but it could be because the EQC shares a platform with the GLC, while future EQ models will use a specific EV architecture.

There’s also the matter of the EQC’s weight; with the first EQ model weighing as much as the faster and considerably larger Tesla Model X.

Again, there’ll be an AMG Line version of the EQC for those seeking sportier styling.

That doesn’t mean AMG is ruling out pure-electric models, however, as Moers has previously told us there’ll be an AMG based on Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming mid- and full-sized EV platform underpinning the EQS. Additionally, AMG is charging ahead with hybrid models such as the next C63.

Motor Trend didn’t mention Moers’s thoughts on an AMG X-Class but, considering that ute’s future is in doubt, don’t hold your breath.

While Mercedes-AMG has ruled out high-performance versions of these models, let's not forget they offer everything from a small, turbocharged four-cylinder hatchback to a full-size, V8-powered, three-row SUV.

If you're asking for anything beyond their already massive range, you might just be spoilt...