Mercedes-Benz Announces U.S. Pricing, On-Sale Date for 2010 GLK

We've been patiently waiting for the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK compact SUV to make its way stateside since its debut in Beijing back in April. Though we've managed a quick drive or two, we haven't yet been able to spend some quality time with it. That's all likely to change soon, now that Mercedes has taken the wraps off the GLK at the L.A. auto show and announced it will go on sale in the U.S. in January starting at $33,900 for a 2WD and $35,900 for a 4WD model.

Powering our American GLK will be a 3.5L V-6 engine making 268 hp and mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox. 4WD models will receive Mercedes' 4Matic system while 2WD models will receive power only at the rear wheels. The V-6 mill should get in the neighborhood of 22 mpg and is rumored to do 0-to-60 in about 6.5 sec. The 3.0L diesel engine will not see our shores, but the 2.1L twin-turbo four-cylinder diesel may still have a chance of making here. An off-road package has been nixed due to lack of interest from U.S. buyers. The V-6 GLK should also be able to pull 3500 lb.

Look for more in-depth coverage of the GLK once it finally goes on sale here in the U.S., as its competitors from Audi and Volkswagen will be hitting showroom floors around the same time.