Motor Show Beijing 2008: Mercedes GLK

Another World premiere at the show in Beijing for the compact Mercedes GLK. Its objective is clear, to shadow the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, which was also unveiled in Beijing.

Called GLK, the new Mercedes is recognizable by its look which has that robust German appeal mixed with a cosy interior.

Its angular lines and raised bonnet give it a very singular appearance, which is a wink to his ancestor the G Class.

With a length of 4.53 m, the GLK is shorter than his main rival, the BMW X3 which comes in at 4.59m. This newcomer is aimed to position itself just one notch below its “big brother” the GL.

The Mercedes GLK will have engines ranging from 184 to 292bhp in its petrol range, and 150 to 224bhp in diesel.

It will be launched in the autumn of 2008 with full transmission (4MATIC) and two-wheel drive.

Estimated first price just less than 40 000 Euros in Europe starting in October, but there is no official British launch date set at the moment.