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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  Noise uncovers manufacturing problem - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By TexasCielo - May 30 - 7:10 am

  I purchased a new 2010 GLK in April. About 1-1/2 months into owning the car, I heard a popping noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. I took the car into servicing on June 30th and technicians quickly found and acknowledged the noise. It turns out - after taking apart the passenger side rear cargo paneling - that some tack welding on the frame did not take place during car assembly in Germany. This is causing two metal pieces to rub and pop while driving the vehicle. An MBUSA chassis technician had to visit the dealerships service department to view the problem. It has taken MBUSA until July 10th to offer a possible repair solution and they still arent confident this will work 100%.

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  Our First Benz - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By oldcem - May 6 - 2:26 am

  When I test drove this vehicle while shopping for a replacement for our 06 Jaguar S-Type, I was surprised that its performance, handling, braking, etc. were very close to the sports sedan I was replacing. We,ve had the GLK for several weeks now, and, Im more impressed with it with each passing mile. The vehicle is dead quiet on interstate runs, and, steady as a rock. Even though ours is a lightly optioned vehicle, it offers enough features as standard equipment that Im very satisfied with it. The 3.5 Liter V6 has plenty of grunt, and, the 7 speed transmission is excellent. Ive owned several other AWD vehicles, but, this one is far quieter than the others - no annoying gear whine.

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  Baby Benz SUV - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Robert Socha - May 4 - 12:48 am

  Looked at this as needed something good on gas as switched from Telecommuter to having to go into an Office. The estimated mpg of 24-33 with combine 29mpg very attractive. Also, wanted AWD and the higher sitting position. Unfortunately, vehicle is not made for a taller person (Im 63"). I Could not find a comfortable driving position even with all the adjustments. Barely could get in/out of backseats as the rear doors are small and do not open that far. The dashboard/instrument cluster color combination of Silver/Gold/White made it extremely difficult to see the numbers on the gauges. Overall, the vehicle was just too small for me and my family of 5.

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  Smoth ride, wind noise, slow rain wiper - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By jennifer - March 29 - 8:09 pm

  This car ride very smoothly, but like the other reviewer, my GLK350 also has wind noise. And its always in the passenger front side. I took it in to the dealer and they had the window shield replaced. The situation still not improved. I didnt hear that noise when I drove Avalon or any other verticals. It was raining really hard today and my rain wipers werent fast enough for me to see the road, this were never happen in my past with the other cars. I will not buy this car again. * Correction: Dealer replaced windshield seal at first (did not work). Finally they replaced the front windshield glass, that got rid of the annoying wind noise.

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  2nd Benz - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By fmp0926 - March 1 - 6:23 pm

  The reviews that say the GLK is built like a tank are spot on. This thing is solid! The GLKs exterior look is polarizing (love it or hate it) but I like the boxy shape since it denotes function over form. There are way too many "SUVs" that are all curvy but at the expense of usable cargo space. I bought the GLK because I wanted something that was extremely safe to drive, was well built, had decent handling, good acceleration and offered a fair amount of utility. I did not buy it because I wanted to get good gas mileage, needed to haul more than 4 adults or lots of cargo. Given those parameters, I am extremely satisfied with the GLK thus far.

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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Juan - February 23 - 2:06 pm

  The GLK Blow me away. I have to say that the is GLK built like a tank and drives like sports car. I got my GLK Fully loaded except for the Lighting package. I have 2 kids and a wife, and we fit nicely. The gas mile is OK. The power is great. The handling cant be any better. The leather package is more comfortable the the MBTex Leather this car is incredible! I Highly recommend it to anyone. Im Still breaking it in. Cant wait to hit it!

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  great feel,looks,and handling - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By sjs - February 12 - 6:53 pm

  After driving a n sl550for 2 1/2 yrs. Its a lot roomier to say the least. After my test drive I knew I had to get one. The drive was awesome, takes corners like a champ, seating is very comfortable. The 268 hp engine is the same one that was in my slk 350 several yrs. Ago. Its quiet and has a lot of get up & go. Proforms well. I now can get several sets of golf clubs in the cargo area. I tested all the small suvs, this is definatly the best.

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  I like the looks! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By MB Guy - February 7 - 4:56 am

  My dealer found one on the boat in my color, loaded and at 0.9% APR. They will take $2300 off MSRP with no problem (dealer prep can be knocked down too). The running boards look nice and prevent door dings, but are a detriment to getting in and out. MB wont be making any GLKs until June that will have the automatic fold function for the rear view mirrors. The mirrors are supposed to be heated automatically at low ambient temps, but will that be available in June as well, or does that work now? When talking to the Finance guy he will ask about other options like paint protection etc. He will knock off about $200 from each and everything because he gets credit (points) for these additions.

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  Best vehcile weve bought so far. - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Chetan Shukla - January 2 - 8:23 pm

  Bought this under the European Delivery Program. Picked it up in Sindelfingen, Germany and drove it first on the Autobahn. Great insurance & service. Loved driving in Europe. Car drives great. Very good and solid road feel. Very comfortable for the front passengers. Rear seats feel a little cramped for knee room. Our kid is in a M-Benz toddler seat (great seat with very nice head rest for sleeping - worth the extra $/Euros) and her feet touch the front seat back all the time. We also got the rear Entertainment system with dual screens, Universal Media Interface (that only gets installed when car arrives in the US at MB preparation center). Panoramic roof is very nice.

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  BIG Disappointment - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Bernie - December 24 - 6:26 pm

  My wife likes the vehicle and it looked good on the showroom. Ours was specially ordered and shipped with most options. Disappointments are the brake system, extreme dead travel, I actually rear ended (bumped) another car. The brakes have not worked correctly to the point where when we got home you could see heavy smoke from the front disks and they were red hot. The computer must erratically actuate the brakes at normal highway speeds and it causes the car to swing from side to side and makes the transmission labor intensively and the engine temperature starts climbing. This has happened a handful of times and we have taken it in for service and nothing can be found that is abnormal. No good.