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:
Showing 131 through 140 of 156.00-
reliability - 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By kingcape - September 20 - 9:18 amI purchased this SUV new expecting to get a quality vehilcle. I am a high mileage driver and this is what you should expect Air conditioning: Stops working after 2 hours of driving. Brought it to the dealer who said nothing was wrong. Took a vacation from MA to South Carolina. It Stopped..stopped at a SC dealer who left a long VM for my dealer saying it doesnt work. Brought it to the dealer. They tested it and said it was fine. It is not. Alternator: Broke at 49000 miles. Brought it to the dealer and they actually fixed under warrantee. They were not very happy to do it. Heater fan: The dreaded squeak as I have read on line. Almost constant. Cost about $500.00 to fix. So sorry I bought
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2010 GLK350 - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By mercedes2010 - August 13 - 4:22 pmGreat car mechanically however, if you are over 58" tall and weigh more than 180 pounds, not the car for you! After 13500 miles, the drivers side door rubber and interior molding is completely worn out from entrance and exit "rubbing"!! Poor quality materials as far as I am concerned. When taken and shown to the dealer he indicated this wear was not covered by warranty. Would expect this after 40 - 50 thousand miles but not from a new car, especially a mercedes. Stay aware if your an average person!!
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Tons of torque and great fuel economy - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By thebayesian - July 9 - 12:10 pmI traded in an MDX looking for something a bit smaller. I had looked at the 2012 GLK but was really put off by the cheap interior. I was happy to see that Mercedes really improved on the interior quality for the 2013 GLK. I was a bit skeptical at first about the engine seeing as though its a 4-cylinder, but it has an amazing amount of torque and when you hit the gas youll feel it. It has plenty of passing power at highway speeds as well. The 7 speed transmission is very smooth.
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Solid, Small, Classy SUV - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Little Tank - June 9 - 2:00 amI have had the GLK for about 1 week now after driving a BMW X5. It has everything..I wanted something smaller in AWD/SUV that handled like a sports car, GLK is smaller, drives like a car but you sit a bit higher. This is definitely a smaller SUV than a BMW X3. Handles well, not as smooth driving as X5, but much better drive than a BMW X3 which I also have owned. Takes bumps well, looks classy and different than everything else in a SUV on the road. Navigation is easy to control, bells and whistles are plentiful but not too difficult once you review the manual. Gas mpg about 18 for city/hwy mixed driving. Im 53" so getting in and out is easy for me which was an important consideration.
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so far so good - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Brent Clarke - May 2 - 7:05 amBought this low mileage GLK 4Matic and have driven for a month including 900 mile trip. Car is very quiet and accelerates well. Only problem so far was a dead battery in a proximity key. Navigation and audio system are a challenge to understand basic issues like setting radio presets without breaking out the manual.
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Smooth Operator - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Drucilla - January 6 - 1:38 amI recently purchased the 2015 Mercedes GLK350 2WD and its a great SUV. It has a smooth ride and handles the road quite nicely. I have not noticed the wind noise that others have referred too so I will give that some time. My vehicle came fully loaded with Navigation, Blue tooth, Command; the works. The gas mileage is the icing on the cake as m seeing about 22 miles per gallon using the ECO option. All in all, I dont have any regrets in purchasing this beauty.
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I Love My Car But... - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By B.R.Bannister - December 22 - 3:05 amI Love my Car. We are around 110000 miles now. Over all I love everything about my car except I always need to fix it. My car lock needed to be fixed, that was $1000 Seals around the doors are cracking. Chrome trim around cup holders are peeling. Buttons are wearing off. Middle console it scratching. Basically anything plastic will and has fallen apart. I know it sounds all horrible but my car in almost mint condition and all these things are things only I would notice since I detail my car daily but the fact is I have noticed. Ive spent $3000 in maintenance this year. Over all I love my car it handles well, I feel special driving it. But if you dont have the extra cash Id say pass.
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Best in class SUV, elegant and great handling - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By B.Bangaru - December 18 - 1:03 pm -
Surprisingly Fun - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Mykel - December 16 - 5:53 amIm amazed at the people complaining about mileage during the break in period of the car driving in winter. Love this car-my last 2 were a Highlander and an x-3 this vehicle puts them to shame. Havent had any brake issues so far so good. Great experience!!!!
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Easy to love and great value - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Jhedges - October 2 - 12:03 pmI was about to buy a 2 year old X3 when it was sold on my way to the dealer. I went out the same day to shop around and ended up stopping in for my first time at MB. My wife and I saw the GLK for the first time (Jan 3rd, not on the road yet) and feel in love. I was also considering the c300 but the value is just not the same. The CUV provides a very roomy ride up front and room I can live with in the rear. I love the steel panels instead of the usual wood. That immediately tells me this is the car of now. It might be dated in a few years but right now it is hot. My brakes squeak a lot but the dealer has helped a bit. It is expensive to run but worth it if you want to look important
