Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that its new compact SUV will be labeled the GLK class, suggestive of a smaller vehicle than the GL series.

The GLK will be launched in the European market some time in 2008 and in the United States in the first quarter of 2009.

Few details have been released about the exterior appearance of the compact SUV. The vehicle was largely covered at a press event earlier this month, but attendees described the body as both shorter and lower than the GL with a squared off design.

Mercedes was more forthcoming about the GLK's interior which was trimmed in black wood with black piping and outfitted with white leather seats.

The dash of the prototype included a navigation screen in the dash and the Mercedes COMAND-Plus controller, a single knob that addresses multiple electronic functions.

Unlike the M class and the GL, the GLK will be built in Germany. Although pricing details have not been officially confirmed, the opening MSRP for the GLK will most probably start at under $40,000.

Company spokesmen were clear that the GLK will be marketed as a compact SUV, not as a "crossover," a term that is still somewhat cloudy in industry language.

Direct competition for the GLK will include the Acura RDX, the BMW X3, the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Land Rover LRD, and the Volvo SC60. Both Lexus and Infiniti are expected to introduce new models in this class as well.

The GLK is expected to make its first public appearance at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.