Reports continue to trickle out out an upcoming baby-SLS model from Mercedes-Benz’ high-performance AMG division, with the latest claiming the Porsche 911-rival could be called the SSK.

The SSK would be build on a shortened version of the SLS’s all-aluminum structure to keep weight to a minimum. The car will also do without the 6.2-liter V8 engine (which Mercedes has already said will be axed from the company’s lineup soon anyway) in favor of a turbocharged V8. Performance will still be impressive with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds expected.

In a bid to lower the cost, the SSK won’t get the SLS’s trademark gullwing doors, but rather conventional units.

The decision to build the SSK is reportedly part of a larger plan by Mercedes to grow the high-performance AMG unit into a more complete brand.

[Source: Drive.com.au]

There’s no official word yet, but Mercedes’ high-performance AMG division is looking to expand and may do so by adding a baby SLS to the lineup. As the new sports car flagship for the Mercedes brand, the 563-hp SLS has just launched in the U.S. and is the first-ever ground up vehicle to be built by AMG.

A new, smaller version of the SLS would reportedly use the new car’s chassis, but with smaller dimensions, which is certainly possible as the SLS, with its front/mid engine configuration already has plenty of space up front that can be cut. A new V8 engine would be built for the car with a displacement under the current car’s 6.2-liters. It would get direct-injection as well as a new cylinder cut-off technology (using just four-cylinders when all eight aren’t needed), which is currently being developed for the next generation SLS.

This new AMG model would ideally be a shopping alternative for those in the market for a Porsche 911.

[Source: PistonHeads]