2010 Mercedes Benz GLK priced from $33,900 in U.S.

After a string of concept versions and the first reveal of its new GLK in full production trim at this year’s Beijing Motor Show, Mercedes Benz has finally revealed pricing and released dates for the new compact SUV in the United States. The GLK will go on sale in January next year, with pricing for the base 2WD model starting at $33,900. Upgrading to the AWD version will set you back $35,900. Both prices exclude a $850 destination charge that applies on both models.

Designed to go up against the BMW X3 and upcoming Audi Q5, the new GLK shows a dramatic improvement in quality over Mercedes’ previous SUV models despite being an entry-level offroader.

The car will be available with both RWD and 4Matic full-time AWD powertrains and in GLK350 guise will be powered by a 268hp 3.5L V6 engine. With an estimated kerb weight of just over two tons the car should be able to reach 60mph from rest in about 6.5 seconds and earn a 23mpg average fuel consumption rating. European versions will also be available in 220CDI diesel and BlueEfficiency guises as well as a 320CDI as well.

The GLK will be built at Mercedes’ Bremen plant in Germany and will be available with a host of upmarket features including Sienna Pine wood trim, chrome detailing, an optional COMAND interface, a panoramic sunroof, SIRIUS satellite radio and bi-xenon headlights. Other features include standard 19in alloys, two-zone automatic climate control, an adjustable steering column, electrically adjustable front seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a 5in color display.