Mercedes-Benz has said in recent interviews that they will be offering a new Bluetec Diesel version of their popular small GLK SUV. For the 2012 model year, the Mercedes GLK-Class will be available with a 2.2L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Additionally they stated that even the next generation C-Class will offer the same engine when it hits showrooms in 2013.

The news of course bodes well as the move will solidify Mercedes Benz’s place in the diesel car market for the US. The entire line of cars with few exceptions will be available with a clean diesel option.

While the version of the 2.2 liter diesel we get in the States will likely vary slightly, the GLK 220 Bluetec in Europe has 170 hp at 3,200 rpm and 295 ft. lbs. of torque starting 1,400 rpm. Mileage in a US version of the GLK will easily exceed the gasoline version and make the option worth its add ional cost.

This will make the small luxury SUV market more competitive, with BMW and Jeep likely looking to follow up with their own offerings for their entry level models. With the C-Class 4-cylinder offering it likely will force BMW to look at a less expensive and more efficient alternative to their current 6-cylinder 3-Sieries diesel.