At the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz rolled out two small vehicles. One is a thinly disguised preview of its much-anticipated compact SUV, the other an update of its SLK sports car.

Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Bluetec Concept

2008 Detroit Auto Show

2008 Detroit Auto Show
Though still technically a concept, the Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Bluetec provides a good look at what will become the maker's first U.S.-bound compact SUV.

Not wanting the GLK to be a mere shrunken version of its larger SUVs, Mercedes gave the GLK concept more sharply creased lines and a sportier silhouette.

Two versions of the concept were shown. One, the Townside, makes no pretense of off-road capability, with minimal ground clearance and sporty, on-road wheels and tires.

Said to be better able to hit the trail is the Freeside, sporting greater ground clearance, more aggressive looking tires, and truckier styling cues.

Recently spotted during the filming of the Sex In The City movie in Los Angeles, the production GLK differs little from the Vision concept.

The Vision Concept features a 204-horsepower 2.2-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine. The diesel features Mercedes-Benz’s clean Bluetec technology and will be available for sale in California and the other green states. With the diesel engine as well as a pair of gasoline V6s, the production GLK is scheduled to arrive early in 2009 as a 2010 model.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK

2008 Detroit Auto Show

2008 Detroit Auto Show
Also revealed, the freshened 2009 SLK. Mercedes' smallest convertible, the two-seat SLK receives updated styling and a more powerful V6 engine.

Previously good for 268 horsepower, the '09 SLK 350's pumped-up 3.5-liter six now boasts 305 horsepower.

An SLK 300 (confusingly called SLK 280 before the freshening) with a 3.0-liter V6 and a high-performance SLK 55 with a 5.4-liter V8 return for 2009.

Watch for the updated SLK to arrive in Mercedes-Benz showrooms this April.