6
NEWS
SPY PICS: Mercedes-Benz GLK
Merc's new compact SUV is shaping up to be sleeker and more refined... and this time around we're likely to get it tooMercedes-Benz’s second-generation GLK compact SUV has been spied by the Automedia lenses, and the vehicle in question is of relevance to us this time as – unlike its left-hand-drive-only predecessor – the new vehicle will be offered with the steering wheel on either side of the car.
Sourcing much of its underpinnings from the next-gen C-Class (due in 2015), the new GLK is both longer and wider than the existing model, endowing it with the interior space to tackle its BMW X3 and Audi Q5 rivals.
The GLK’s dimensional stretch is also a strategic move that will create space below it for the upcoming GLA baby SUV, which is derived from the front-wheel-drive A-Class.
Although the prototype pictured alongside is swathed in a heavy disguise, it’s still possible to make out that the angular and somewhat awkward profile of the current GLK makes way for a much more streamlined and contemporary shape.
The headlight clusters appear closely related to those worn by the new S-Class, while the stance appears far more planted than today’s tall and upright GLK.
According to sources, the new GLK’s architecture will also have a lot of commonality with the next-gen E-Class as well, so there is the possibility it will be offered with a greater range of powertrains than the current model, which tops out with the 3.5-litre V6-powered GLK350.
The initial engine line-up is expected to comprise a range of four-cylinder and V6 turbo units, starting with the 2.0-litre four-pot found elsewhere in the Benz line-up. The flagship motor is likely to be the 245kW 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 used by the E400.
Naturally, there will also be an extensive range of diesels, including the 2.1-litre turbo-diesel that propels the current GLK250 BlueTec. Also reportedly on the drawing board are a hybrid variant and a V8-powered AMG thumper.
The new GLK will be offered in rear-drive and all-paw formats, with shifting duties initially taken care of by the familiar 7G-Tronic seven-speed auto, with Merc’s new nine-speed auto usurping it in due course.
As for timing, it’s believed the new GLK will be revealed in the first half of 2015, possibly at the New York or Shanghai motor shows, with the vehicle landing in showrooms later that year.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Don't forget to register to comment on this article.
Share this article
Written byGautam Sharma
See all articlesOur team of independent expert car reviewers and journalistsMeet the team
Stay up to dateBecome a carsales member and get the latest news, reviews and advice straight to your inbox.
Subscribe todayRelated articles
Disclaimer
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Contact
Advertise with us
International marketplaces
Scan to download the carsales app
Want more info? Here’s our app landing page
App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo
are trademarks of Google LLC.