Mercedes-Benz GLK from Alabama?

[Wolfgang]

AUTOWEEK reports:

Zetsche won't rule out building the GLK SUV in Alabama. Makes sense, since C-class will be built there starting in 2014.

 

[far2000]

AUTOWEEK reports:

Zetsche won't rule out building the GLK SUV in Alabama. Makes sense, since C-class will be built there starting in 2014.

Interesting, i thought it was already being built in Alabama only.

 

[PHYBENZ]

nope it's not being built in alabama at all. Only the GL R and ML are being built there right now.

 

[Gullwing]

I think they will continue to bring more cars to Alabama. The cost to build is pretty good, plus they don't have to ship them around the pond.
By 2020 I could see them building ML, R, GL, GLK, C, C coupe, and anything else they come up with between now and then.

 

[far2000]

I wonder why its being built in Lhd Only, and when willl it be avail in RHD.

 

[Mr. Mercedes]

I wonder why its being built in Lhd Only, and when willl it be avail in RHD.

Yes I wonder too. It was an absolutely FOOLISH decision on MB's part. Since when have they only concentrated on LHD. There are many RHD markets that they would have done rather well in! They shot themseleves in the foot really, allowing Audi to move in early on this segment.

 

[Wolfgang]

Looks like it's not expected until the 2015 replacement?


"And further down the track, the GLK’s replacement – the one which will be engineered for RHD in both AWD and RWD guises – is expected to be launched in Australia in about 2015."

"One Mercedes insider told GoAuto Media that the loss of a luxury compact SUV contender will be felt deeply, but that there is nothing that the Australian arm can do about it, and so looking ahead is the only thing left for the company to do."

From: http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/42C64F0AC4361E60CA257655007C09C6

 

[Mr. Mercedes]

Yep..and that's why Australian capitals are awash with Q5's!

I heard that RHD may be a possibility for the facelift. Let's hope so.

 

[far2000]

Stupid Stupid Idiots...!!!..How the hell are they going 2 profit on a mass market premium compact off roader in LHD Only??? and the idiot that decided that should be fired...and i mean literally in the face

 

[Wolfgang]

Autobild's idea how the new GLK might look. The code is X205,
and it will likely be based on the new C-class station wagon, S205.

 

[fortuner]

Looks good but more like a facelift to me.