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No GLK for right-hand drive countries
By Yoann Besnard on 8 November 2007 | 
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Due to go on sale in 2008, the next hottest SUV might not be available with a right-hand version because of high engineering costs generated by the conversion. The small Mercedes SUV is based on the current C-Class estate platform. While available in 2wd for the entry levels, the GLK will rely on the 4Matic architecture at the top of the range in order to provide 4wd. Unfortunately, the 4Matic system has not been designed for right-hand drive countries. For the management, the main stumbling block for the conversion is the cost but some voices argue that the investment is worthwhile on a long term.
With a length of around 177 inches, the GLK will provide enough room for five people and the boot will offer a low tailgate. Rather than a small ML, the GLK will look like the large GL. The hot SUV will be available with a choice of 2.1-litre diesel, 3.0-litre V6 petrol and diesel, 3.5 litre V6 petrol and the 6.2-litre AMG V8.
The GLK will compete with the future Audi Q5 and the BMW X3. If it is not available as a right-hand drive variant, Audi and BMA will have an easier time on those markets.
