It's been just one year since Mercedes-Benz first revealed the Concept Coupe SUV, a precursor to the GLE Coupe which brought the company into the race against BMW's successful X6 coupe. Now, Merc has pulled the covers off of a new concept based on the second generation GLK/GLC. It is currently dubbed the Concept GLC Coupe and designed to directly rival the compact BMW X4. The concept, a "near-production-standard study", will become a full-blown production model by 2016.

The Concept GLC Coupe is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine, producing 367 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed auto with 4MATIC AWD, a combination which Mercedes guarantees will offer "an acoustically audible note to the impressive performance". To enhance its off-road abilities (or image, at this point), Mercedes has fitted the car with underbody protection and short front overhangs, in addition to an upright grille and twin-blade louvre. Like the GLE Coupe, Mercedes promises to combine SUV looks with a "distinct coupe heritage" that is reflected in stacked quad stainless steel exhaust pipes and LED taillights.

It also has a sleeker side profile with a low-slung coupe greenhouse. For the model pictured here, Mercedes has fitted it with massive 21-inch wheels. Expect Mercedes to make an official public debut of the Concept GLC Coupe at this week's Shanghai Auto Show.