The first and current generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLK has about a year left to live, with an all new model to replace it already in the works and being tested for quite a few months now.
The latest spy video of the upcoming model comes straight from Germany, with a pre-production prototype of the new GLK (X205) caught exiting a Mercedes-Benz facility in Sindelfingen.
Just like its predecessor, the 2015 GLK (X205) will be based on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which is itself based on the all-new MRA (Modular Rear-wheel Architecture) platform.
We already know that it will feature a center console that is quasi-identical to the one from the recently-unveiled C-Class (W205), while the engine lineup will also be similar.
Even though it will be much larger than the X204, the intensive use of aluminium will bring its weight down, just like it did on the C-Class. This fact, along with slightly better aerodynamics and more efficient engines, will also make it use much less fuel than the current model.
We are also expecting a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version, each battling to offer a Toyota Prius-like fuel economy to go with the usual Mercedes-Benz comfort and safety.
The C-Class (W205) and S-Class (W222)-introduced touchpad and color head-up display system will also find their way on the new GLK, while the Airmatic suspension will be available as well.
Another premiere should consist of the fact that the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLK will be available with right-hand drive for the first time ever, as a previous prototype of the car confirmed us last year.
Design-wise, the model will lose the angular design of the current model, its line following the new Mercedes-Benz design language that premiered with the A-Class (W176).
Expect more information about the subject in the upcoming months, as the GLK is drawing closer to its late 2014 or early 2015 launch date. Meanwhile, let's just have a brief look at this camouflaged prototype and contemplate its front mid-engine-like proportions.
Alex handled his first real steering wheel at the age of five (on a field) and started practicing "Scandinavian Flicks" at 14 (on non-public gravel roads). Following his time at the University of Journalism, he landed his first real job at the local franchise of Top Gear magazine a few years before Mircea (Panait). Not long after, Alex entered the New Media realm with the autoevolution.com project. Full profile
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