Competing directly with vehicles like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5 and BMW X3, the new, 2010 GLK-Class SUV is heavily inspired by and derived from one of the most successful Mercedes-Benz products ever: the C-Class sedan.

That's definitely a good starting point, and it's safe to say that the most recent addition to the German automaker's showroom doesn't disappoint.

Combining a unique look and feel with cutting-edge technology and a decent price, the GLK-Class should be poised for great success in a crowded market of small and midsize luxury SUVs.

Unfortunately, now is not the time to debut a brand-new, luxury SUV.

But what can you do? The GLK-Class was ready to wow Canadians when it went on sale in January 2009, but the world economy had different ideas, to say the least.

These days, people have more important things to worry about than a new Mercedes - even one that starts at a reasonable $41,800.

This, of course, is the irony - if the GLK-Class had been another six-figure, super-deluxe automobile intended for the mega-rich, then it wouldn't matter whether or not the middle class took notice of it.

But this vehicle reflects a desire to make Mercedes-Benz more accessible to a wider cross-section of the population. Last summer, it might have accomplished that goal.

Our economy will eventually recover, and when it does, the GLK-Class will be more than ready. In the meantime, Mercedes-Benz can get to work on the SUV's main challenge: a lack of engine options.

In Europe, the GLK-Class is available with two gasoline engines and two diesel engines, providing buyers with a wealth of choice.

At launch, North Americans get only the biggest engine: a 3.5 litre V6 that consumes 13.3 l per 100 kilometres of premium gasoline in the city and 9.6 l per 100 km on the highway.

In truth, the GLK-Class's competitors aren't much better with respect to fuel economy, but it's silly not to offer the smaller 3.0 l V6 that can be found elsewhere in Mercedes-Benz's lineup.

After that, it wouldn't be a stretch to install the excellent BlueTEC diesel V6 used in four other Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

And hey, while we're at it - how about a hybrid GLK-Class to compete with Lexus's RXh SUV? Or is that asking too much?

THUMBS UP

Stunning design, confident performance, comprehensive features, good price.

THUMBS DOWN

Dashboard usability issues and lack of engine options.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The right package and the right price at the wrong time.