2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

Bringing Up Baby

Mercedes-Benz's GLK-Class looks like a shrunken version of one of its larger SUVs, but promises performance befitting a sport sedan.

With the addition of the all-new 2010 GLK-Class, Mercedes-Benz will offer no less than five SUVs in the United States.

The GLK-Class is Mercedes’ first compact SUV and will compete with the Acura RDX, Audi's new Q5, BMW's X3, Infiniti's EX, Land Rover's LR2 and Volvo's XC60.

Of those models, only the BMW X3 existed a couple years ago, which indicates that automakers see the small SUV category as one of the most promising.

The GLK-Class' exterior styling is intended to give the impression of a larger, more substantial vehicle. It looks like a smaller version of Mercedes’ large SUV with a confusingly similar name, the GL-Class, which is 22.3 inches longer and 3.6 inches wider than the GLK-Class.

The GLK350 will be powered by a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive will be standard. Mercedes says the GLK350 will accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in about 6.5 seconds — faster than many family sedans — and deliver 23 miles per gallon on the highway.

The GLK-Class also offers a sophisticated suspension and electronic stability program with a feature designed to help stabilize towed trailers. It will have a tow rating of 3,500 pounds, enough to pull a small camper or small fishing boat.

Check back for a full review.