The Mercedes-Benz GLK is a compact luxury crossover SUV released as a 2009 model elsewhere and as a 2010 model in North America after its public debut at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show competing with the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLK is likely to get launched in the India and Australian market in 2014. The company says the rival for the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 is now confirmed to be a part of the local SUV offerings, joining the G-Wagen, GL-Class and upcoming GLA.
Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman David McCarthy said that the next-generation GLK model is at least two years away and it will be built in right-hand drive too. McCarthy admits that some of its Australian dealers contacted the company after reading this news, stressing their desire to have the next-generation GLK among the showroom line-up. Mercedes Australia has been missing rivalry to popular mid-size luxury SUVs such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, as well as smaller segment of SUVs such as the Q3, X1 and Range Rover Evoque.
The current model of the Mercedes-Benz GLK features the same 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that powers the C350 Sports Sedan. This engine uses direct-injection technology to optimize power and fuel efficiency. Output is estimated at 302 HP of power and 370 Nm of torque. There’s also an Eco Start-Stop system present on the GLK350 that will shut down the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop to prevent wasting fuel while idling. We expect the next-generation GLK to launch in India soon after its global launch with a price tag of around Rs. 40 lakh.
Source – CarAdvice
