Mercedes GLK Interior Spy Photo

According to Automotive News, Mercedes has officially confirmed the name of their new SUV called, GLK. The GLK-Class will launch in Europe at the end of 2008 and U.S. launch, most likely Detroit, in early 2009.

At a special press event, Automotive News reports that one of the GLK test prototypes wrapped in black matte tape commonly seen in spy photos was on hand for closer inspection. The test prototype (as seen in our spy photo) had white leather interior with wood trim, COMMAND-Plus and only one row of rear seats. Unlike the M-Class and GL-Class which are made in Alabama, the GLK will be built in Germany.

Mercedes officials classify the vehicle as a compact SUV instead of crossover. They gave no hints to pricing, but it is expected to come in under $40,000 USD for the entry model to compete with BMW's X3 which starts at $38,775. Other competing models include Acura RDX, Land Rover LR2, VW Tiguan, upcoming Volvo XC60 and new Lexus and Infiniti entries.