2009 Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV: photos and specs

April 22nd, 2008

Right after the vehicle’s debut at the 2008 Auto China motor show in Beijing, the German company lifted the embargo on publication of photos and technical specs of its 2009 Mercedes-Benz GLK compact SUV.

Designed to compete against the 2007 BMW X3, the 2008 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2009 Audi Q5, the entry-level SUV is more than a sum of its parts.

The vehicle is reported to be available with either RWD or a full-fledged 4Matic full-time AWD transmission and will be powered by a 268hp 3.5-liter V6 capable of accelerating the two-ton GLK from zero to 60mph in some 6.5 seconds while delivering a nice average fuel economy of 23mpg.

European motorists will have much wider choice of powerplants though, including the 220CDI and 320CDI diesel engines.

Despite being an entry-level model, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GLK bears such classy details as Sienna Pine wood trim, chrome detailing, an optional COMAND interface, a panoramic sunroof, SIRIUS satellite radio (U.S. only) and bi-xenon headlights.

The rest of the list includes standard 19-inch alloy wheels, two-zone automatic climate control, an adjustable steering column, electrically adjustable front seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a 5-inch color display.