The second generation Mercedes GLK (the name will be GLC) was surprised again on the street and spy shots confirm that will be larger than actual model.
As the spy shots attached confirm once again, the new Mercedes GLC will be slightly larger than the model it replaces in order to make more room for the smaller Mercedes-Benz GLA. The prototype clearly has a longer wheelbase than the current GLK, and its track is wider, too. We can also see that the hood has been stretched and the front axle pushed forward to accommodate the longer wheelbase.
This should translate to more interior space and improved dynamics. It also means the new GLC will better match rivals such as the Audi Q5 and especially BMW X3 in terms of space and comfort.
Much of the design remains hidden beneath heavy camouflage but it looks like the vehicle will adopt some familiar Mercedes styling cues. The proportions appear much sportier than those of the current GLK and the roof more steeply sloped towards the rear, hinting at a coupe-like profile. If we pay more attention to the pictures of the rear of the car, we can see the rear frame which prove that the rear window is only in a temporary position. Very probably, the future GLK will preserve the boxy design at the rear even in a soft form because it has to leave room for future GLK coupe which will compete with BMW X4.
The car’s mechanical package will be shared with the redesigned 2015 Mercedes-Benz C Class. This second-generation mid-size SUV will also finally get a right-hand-drive configuration, enabling the vehicle to enter new markets such as the U.K., Japan and Australia.
There are rumours of a new turbo 1.8 litre four cylinder under the hood of the new GLC 250. The GLC 250 BlueTec will use the current 2.1 litre 4 cylinder bi-turbo diesel with 204 HP meanwhile the GLC 350 will be powered by the new 3 litre V6 turbo.
It’s not clear if Mercedes will finally decide to launch an AMG variant, but this particular prototype was tested alongside other AMG-models, was parked in AMG’s test facility over night and has unusually big wheels mounted. So, in fact, the test car could have a new AMG-chassis mounted underneath…
We currently expect the new GLC to launch late next year, as a 2015 model, though its arrival may be pushed back to the start of the 2016 model year.
It’s all new with Mercedes mid-size SUV so far named the GLK – even the name. According to insiders, Mercedes is changing its nomenclature system, making the former GLK the GLC. And the future coupe version could be named simple GLC Coupe.
Foto: Automedia
