Automotive news is reporting that the Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG will make its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit early next year.

Mercedes-Benz planning to unleash mid-level AMG models

According to the report, Mercedes-Benz’ plan is to introduce a line of vehicles with modified engines and sport-tuned suspensions to bridge the gap between standard Mercedes-Benz models and high-performance AMG derivatives.

The C450 AMG will supposedly be the first in a series of performance models to do away with the full AMG treatment. This will result in a few modifications restricted to trim, cladding and wheels, as well as an upgraded engine that won’t offer the same performance as regular AMG derivatives. The engine is said to be a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers about 274 kW of power.

The German carmaker is expected to introduce similar variants for its other models over the next few years, which will include the E-Class, GLK and CLA-classes.

*Pictured is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class