The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is a compact crossover utility vehicle aimed squarely at the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Infiniti EX35. On sale in 2008 for the European market, American car shoppers got their first taste of the new model in 2009.

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Customers are able to buy the luxury rear-wheel-drive GLK350 model for $33,900 and the all-wheel-drive variant from $35,900. That positions the GLK below the X3, but above the EX.

Based on the all-wheel drive C-class 4Matic platform, the GLK is offered in three distinct flavors, with a sporty on-road version featuring low-profile 19-inch tires along with a stiffer and lower suspension, an all-rounder capable of off-roading, and an even more rugged variation designed for extreme terrain.

Unlike other markets, U.S. versions feature only one powertrain; a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 good for 268 horsepower mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is the standard configuration, with 4Matic four-wheel drive optional. Mercedes threw some numbers at us for this vehicle, the GLK350, including a zero to 60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, 143 mph top speed and 23mpg highway fuel economy.

The corporate 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine is a likely candidate to find its way under the GLK's hood in the future, as European version will offer it, along with a four-cylinder diesel.

The interior of the production GLK is relatively minimalist. The center stack is almost perfectly vertical and features gray plastics that don't seem to be up to Mercedes-Benz quality. An LCD screen atop the stack is used for radio and HVAC controls, as well as for navigation. When in park, the shift lever also appears to be in the way of some controls.