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Finally, Mercedes-Benz has given us a better look at the next Mercedes-Benz GLK. After testing the crossover SUV mainly with heavy padding, the GLK has lost some of its camo, giving us a closer look at the vehicle's styling.

Our spy photographer was quick to point out "sharply detailed fender flares," as well as the GLK's "chiseled midsection." We can also see a little bit more of the headlight and taillight shapes in the pictures. The "K" clearly stands for "Kurz," German for "short", as the GLK definitely looks like it took some cues from the seven-seat GL.

Being billed as a competitor to the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW F3, BMW X3, Land Rover LR2, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Volvo XC60, we expect to see the GLK in '08 as a 2009 model. Rumors are bouncing around about the car's engine, with talk of a 3.5 litre V6, 270 horsepower, 260 ft-lb torque machine powering the crossover. Other possible engines include a 2.8 litre V6, along with diesel and gasoline options of both. There is some rumor floating around of a potential AMG edition.

At this rate, Mercedes-Benz looks to be aiming for a Geneva Motor Show launch in Spring 2008. We look forward to Daimler-Benz answering our as-yet unanswered questions about their new SUV.