A spokesperson said that the GLK would either be launched at the Detroit or the Geneva Motor Show, fitted with many components from the new C-Class such as the four and six cylinder engines.
Pictures taken of prototypes reveal a design similar to the bigger GL Class, rather than the M-Class.
Achim Parnow from the Mercedes design team said the shape was relatively squared with steep front, broad shoulder lines and dominant 20-inch wheels.
The GLK is the fifth Mercedes SUV in the line-up for next year that includes modifications for the current range. T