Overview & Reviews

The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class may be one of the least expensive models the German company produces, but you wouldn't suspect that by the way this small crossover looks, feels and drives. Close one of the doors or drive over a set of railroad tracks and you can't help but feel the sense of over-engineered solidity that permeates every inch of this compact luxury SUV. Indeed, it's this innate Benz quality that sets the GLK apart from the other crossovers in its class.

However, there are now more competitors in this class than ever before. Most match the GLK in terms of available equipment and performance, yet also offer a roomier backseat and cargo area. As such, the GLK probably isn't the most family-friendly choice. Even so, that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz engineering and craftsmanship makes the GLK-Class worth a look.

Current Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is a five-passenger premium crossover SUV offered in two trim levels: the gasoline-powered GLK350 and the diesel GLK250 Bluetec variant.

The GLK350 is powered by Mercedes' familiar 3.5-liter V6 that develops 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. The GLK250 Bluetec utilizes a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine that makes 200 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, along with the seven-speed automatic. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is optional on the GLK350 and standard on the GLK250 Bluetec.

GLKs come standard with dual-zone climate control, power front seats, leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth and a six-speaker audio system. Optional luxuries include a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, a rearview camera and a premium surround-sound audio system. Buyers can also opt for rear-seat DVD entertainment, full leather seating, bi-xenon headlights, rear parking sensors and a multitude of cosmetic appearance options.

Drive the Mercedes-Benz GLK350 back to back with a C350 sedan and you're bound to notice similarities. The steering feel and ride quality are remarkably similar, and the GLK's interior has many identical controls. Both have impressive materials and fit and finish. To go along with its blocky exterior styling, however, the look of the GLK's interior is more austere and upright. In back, rear seat space is surprisingly good for two adults, though getting in and out can be a squeeze. Maximum cargo capacity is noticeably less than what's provided by most other luxury competitors.

On the road, the GLK's V6 delivers smooth and snappy performance, with 0-60-mph sprints right at the 6-second mark. While not the equal of more agile rivals like the BMW X3 or Infiniti EX35, the GLK350's handling is certainly capable and confidence-inspiring around corners. The GLK250 Bluetec brings the segment's first diesel engine and takes about 2 seconds longer to hit 60 mph. The obvious trade-off is significantly increased fuel economy: The Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec is rated at 28 mpg combined, versus 21 combined for the GLK350 4Matic.

The GLK's ride is firm in typical Germanic fashion, but it absorbs rutted bumps easily and masters even rough highways without the slightest hint of harshness or chatter. In such conditions, the cabin remains impressively quiet, with very little wind or road noise.

Used Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Models
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was introduced for 2010. In that first year, the GLK lacked the current car's driver's knee and front side hip airbags. The AMG Sport package was also not available. The 2013 model year saw the debut of the GLK250 Bluetec diesel, along with an increase in the V6's power output (previously 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque) and improved fuel economy. Other changes that year included a slight styling update inside and out, an automatic stop-start system (that turns off the engine when the vehicle stops to save fuel) and enhanced electronics and infotainment features.

User Reviews:

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  A 2-wheel Gas Guzzler! - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By foolcertified - December 22 - 4:04 am

  Leased a 2-wheel drive 2011 GLK-350 from Caliber Motors w/bad lease tuin April this year to replace the 2008 E350 due to too many unsafe blind spots. After driven 3 months of the GLK-350, here are my personal driving experience of this half-breed SUV:Pros:Not too high, not to low, the height is just about right, not too many blind spots as the 2008 E350, better visibility, quiet, good chairs, maneuverability okay Cons:A terrible 2-wheel drive GAS GUZZLER!Gas consumption worse than E350, worse than 1999 ML320.Soft brakes, hesitant accelerating, ugly side mirrors,rear blind spots,worst turning radius, stupid GPS navigator,knob control,small screen,a German JOKE! Bad heat penetrating moon roof

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  GLK on the go - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By charlie taylor jr - September 27 - 1:46 pm

  purchased 3 18 09.in shop twice for radio.drove range rover,looked at lexus sold on looks of glk.drive very well.I THINK IT SHOULD BURN MIDDLE GRADE GAS. A finu suv.With the cost there should have benn acargo net and acargo cover

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  2010 GLK - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By DDM - June 26 - 12:00 pm

  This is an awesome car. I traded my 2007 GL 450 on this car in January 2009. We live in Chicago and this car is far better for city driving. This car is head and shoulders above everything else in the class and, in my opinion, many larger SUVs. Very maneuverable, great seating position and views all around. Acceleration is solid, but the chassis is amazing. As the Edmunds reviewers noted, this car is as solid as a brick. It inspires lots of confidence in all driving situations. Surprisingly good in the snow, even with the 20" wheels. The C- Class Nav/Audio system is much better than the older system in my GL. HK Sound is superb and the rear seat DVD system is much improved.

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  Classy ride - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By scenic26 - February 18 - 2:25 am

  I purchased my 2010 glk350 with 36,000 miles on it. It was a dealer certified car and feld comfortable with my choice of vehicle, being I also own a 2005 ML350 since new with over 80,000 miles on it and love it as well. My GLK is a smaller version of the ML, and performs every bit as well as the larger vehicle. The ML is a bit more cushy and plush as far as the ride, but thats it in my opinion. My GLK is peppy, reliable, great in the snow and ice with great traction, and is fantastic on dry roads at any speed. I feel great driving this car and recommend it highly. You wont be dissappointed?

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  GLK is getting better with age, We love it. - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Don - December 12 - 6:25 am

  Adding back up camera is expensive if you want it integrate with screen in car. We are pleased with the car. Performance and handling has improved with the miles driven. Annual service is a bit costly, but much more service performed than on GM cars I have owned.

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  great little suv, BUT..... - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By gby - November 5 - 6:15 pm

  We own a 2013 rdx tech and I must say its a great value ,But after buying the 2013 glk350 It surely puts the rdx to shame in refinement.The only thing that bothers me is that the glk could use a bit more space to compete better instead of forcing people to go for the ML. Also, there is nothing like the smell and feel of leather and its a 2100 option on the glk. It doesnt work for me that a luxury brand like mercedes would come up with a gimmick like mb tech fake look leather so they can ask for 2100 for something that should be standard in this brand. The smell of the mb tech is not pleasing and smells cheap ( sounds weird). We sill take the rdx for shopping due to more space .

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  I LOVE my 2015 GLK 350 4 Matic - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Sonja Saunders - June 24 - 2:49 am

  I do wish it had heated seats. Although, I competed a lot of research, I didnt realize my truck didnt come with heated seats.

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  Little Black Beauty - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Curtis Still - April 24 - 10:23 pm

  Car runs great! Great gas mileage, trunk space has plenty of room. We use this car to run around town and cart 2 kids around to sports activities. Its much easier to park than our GL450 and the backup camera is really nice. The front console is designed so you can put your cell phone in it and it will not slide around. The only negative remarks I have is in the back seat the cup holder is very cheaply made, nothing too heavy can go in it or it will break. The other is the moon roof cover is made of cheap fabric and prefer the solid look and feel of the GL450 model moon roof. The leather also doesnt seem to feel as nice as the GL450. Other than that, I feel the price we paid for a Mercedes out ways the other cars we had looked at (Subaru Outback, BMW X3, & Infiniti FX35.

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  Best Deal Out There - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Rocco Lemoncola - March 17 - 6:06 pm

  It was the new Volvo that stops iyself, the new Lexus that flies over traffic, or the old BMX X3. Drove them all and liked them all. The Benz was the best deal, hands down. Drives and feels like a Mercedes, which only a Benz feels like. Stereo, Navigation, Bluetooth all excellent. Highly recommend.

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  A Great Little SUV - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Ron S. - January 15 - 6:50 pm

  Ive had my GLK 350 a week now, and I love it--particularly the styling and comfortable ride and the vault-like build quality. It doesnt look like every other compact SUV on the road. It has a very masculine look (unlike the melted soap bar profile of so many smaller SUVs).