This year's SEMA show is set to be a pretty memorable event, with displays from Ford, Hyundai, Hummer, and Chevy all featuring a collection of hot rides. Mercedes is also planning to make a splash, commissioning four companies to trick-out its new GLK compact SUV, and today the fruits of their labor are finally being revealed. But while most tuners are no doubt hoping to take home SEMA's coveted Gran Turismo award, these four will be locked in a separate battle as well -- as part of a new "Tuner Challenge" held by Mercedes, fans will get to vote for their favorite model, with the winner to be announced on December 2.

Based on previous sketches, the appearance of these slammed models at SEMA will mark the GLK's North American debut, and Mercedes is hoping they will help the hauler appeal to younger buyers. Built by RENNtech, Brabus, Boulevard Customs, and Legendary Motorcar, each version on display also represents a very different application, focusing on performance, beach driving, club hopping, and off-road rallying, respectively. Called the Widestar, Rock Crawler, Urban Whip, and Pikes Peak Rally Racer, here's a closer look at Mercedes' new group of hot GLKs:

Brabus Widestar
Based on a GLK 320 CDI 4MATIC diesel, the Brabus Widestar includes a body kit, new front and rear and fender flares, a more aggressive lower air intake, and large custom alloy wheels. Inside Brabus is said to have added a special-edition interior, and while no power figures have been released, the tuner's massive brakes imply the presence of some serious power under the hood.

Boulevard Customs Urban Whip
Taking a different approach from its peers, Boulevard Customs' ride is more about the Sunset Strip than Pikes Peak or the Autobahn. Featuring a new front end with a prominent mesh grille and lower air intake, the Urban Whip's missing roof and a chopped windshield ensure everyone will see you when you roll up at the club, as will its 26-in. polished wheels. And just to be sure you don't blend in, the concept includes an upgraded interior chock full of entertainment options, too.

Legendary Motorcar Rock Crawler
Based on the standard GLK 350 with a 268-hp, 3.5L V-6 under the hood, the Rock Crawler is designed for active lifestylers who plan to use the new SUV on snow and sand. Including special off-road wheels and tires, a roof-mounted light bar, and armor to protect against damage, Legendary Motorcar's creation also sports     a special winch system to aid wakeboarders and snowboarders.

RENNtech Pikes Peak Rally Racer
Inspired by the famed Pikes Peak Hill Climb, the Rally Racer includes a host of upgrades including a body kit, large front and rear brake cooling ducts, a front spoiler and a massive wing on the roof to aid aerodynamics. Again based on the GLK 350, RENNtech also includes a hybrid motor to improve the Racer's output and acceleration numbers.

Featured at SEMA and the Los Angeles Auto Show, Mercedes is also adding a little dose of competition to its display by inviting fans to pick which tuner is their favorite. Attendees can either vote at each show in person or do so online, and the automaker plans to announce the winner of its "Tuner Challenge" in December. So this November 4, after you leave the voting booth, don't forget to log on to www.mbusa.com site and pick your favorite GLK tuner, too -- isn't democracy great?

Source: Mercedes