Mercedes GLK Freeside

These are the first official pictures of Mercedes' stylish Freelander rival. Called the GLK Freeside, the rugged newcomer is actually being presented as a concept. However, by the time it makes its world debut at this month's Detroit Motor Show company bosses will have confirmed production plans.

As you can see, the GLK has many distinctive features that help it stand out from rivals such as the BMW X3 and forthcoming Audi Q5. At the front is an aggressively angular face, while the sides feature sharp creases and bulging wheel arches.

The interior is no less striking thanks to a mix of cutting edge design and traditional materials. Top of the gadget list will be a special verision of the hi-tech COMMAND APS multi-media interface normally found on the executive S-Class saloon. Occupants will also be in the lap of luxury courtesy of leather trim on the seats, and wood inserts for the dash.

Under the skin will be a range of four and six-cylinder engines, both diesel and petrol. The model shown here is powered by 2.2-litre oil-burner that features emissions reducing BLUTEC technology and is connected to the firm's seven speed auto gearbox. Off-roading duties are taken care of by the electronically controlled 4-Matic all-wheel drive system.

But the GLK should be just as handy on road. Engineers at the company have developed AGILITY CONTROL suspension. Special dampers should mean that the GLK has car-like manners on tarmac.

First production versions of the GLK should hit the roads in late 2008. Sadly, though, Mercedes has no plans to bring the compact SUV to the UK.