Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

Mercedes-Benz has planned to assemble a compact crossover SUV to compete with the Acura RDX, BMW X3, Lexus RX the Land Rover Freelander and the future Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60. The name of this series is not yet known, but DaimlerChrysler has already made preparations to use "X-Class" and "MLK-Class". As of August 2007, however, according to Autoblog, it is confirmed to be called the "GLK-Class", K standing for Kurz (short).

The upcoming GLK-Class will probably launch in 2008 as a 2009 model and be built in Germany, the first Mercedes SUV to be built there. Rumored engines are the 2.8L V-6 and the 3.5L V6 making up the GLK280 and the GLK350. Perhaps a AMG variant will be built, but that remains to be seen. Expect styling cues from the other Mercedes SUV's in a smaller package.

The history of the GLK class was designed by Harald Pietschmann after he was approached by Jim Rogers and asked to create the ultimate 4WD convertible for a trip around the world. The project involved using two already existing Mercedes Benz models, the G-class and the SLK-class.

It is speculated that the GLK-Class will share the upcoming C-Class (W204) platform, and production plans continued after the demise of the similar Smart Formore. Later, a compact true off-roader (it may retain the G-Class name) may be built on the same platform. In 2005, it was announced that the vehicle will be built in Bremen, Germany, rather than at the company's Juiz de Fora, Brazil factory as had been expected.

The GL was launched in 2006 to compete with Range Rover and some US brands.

See Wikicars' comprehensive  Review.

Recent Changes

 * For 2009, Mercedes introduced a GLK Styling Package w/ added Accessories.

Styles and Major Options
The car will be offered in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, with different versions and engines according to the propulsion mode.

Rear wheel drive All wheel drive
 * GLK 220 CDI - 2.2-Litre-I4 - 190 PS
 * GLK 280 - 3.0-Litre-V6 - 231 PS
 * GLK 350 - 3.5-Litre-V6 - 272 PS
 * GLK 320 CDI - 3.0-Litre-Diesel - 224 PS

Pricing
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Gas Mileage
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As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Engine and Transmission

 * 2.2 L I4
 * V6, 230 hp (171 kW)
 * V6, 270 hp (201 kW)
 * 4.7 L V8, 326 hp (243 kW)

Performance
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Main Competitors
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Hybrid Models
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Unique Attributes
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Interior
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Resale Values
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Worldwide
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Design quirks and oddities
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Awards
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