The newest small crossover wagon in Mercedes' lineup might not get a right-hand drive variant. Despite high expected demand in RHD countries, the GLK is built on the left-hand drive C-class 4Matic platform, and Mercedez-Benz has no plans to make a RHD variant available. Nevertheless, Mercedes-Benz Australia will push for the change at a conference in Stuttgart, Germany this week.
Built on the LHD-only C-Class 4Matic platform, the GLK is not likely to receive a RHD version because the conversion would require significant engineering investment, reports GoAuto. Some believe the investment would be worthwhile in the long haul, but clearly corporate headquarters is not yet in agreement. While a Mercedes-Benz exec is quoted as understanding that the chances of getting the conversion approved are "less than 50-50″ it will nevertheless be pursued. The GLK would compete with BMW's X3, Audi's Q5 and Volvo's XC60 in RHD markets if approved. If it is not, those competitors will have an easier time.
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