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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  Love My Car - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By sharon - January 31 - 3:10 am

  Ive only driven my car a few times and I am in Love. Its fun to drive, the maneuverability is great, the ride is comfortable, the look turns heads, Ive got a couple of thumbs-up from other drivers. The size is perfect for me. I just turned over my leased ML 350, which I totally loved, I find this easier to drive and more fun. I got the 20" wheels and find the ride just as nice as the 19" wheel, I test drove both, and felt the 20s were great and I think they look better .

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  IMPRESSIVE RIDE!!! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Kevin - January 28 - 12:53 pm

  I recently purchased the GLK350 after an exhaustive search for a new vehicle. I researched and drove Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Nissan but none compare to this vehicle. The GLK is comparably priced to a fully optioned Toyota or Honda but much more fun to drive and its not like every other vehicle on the road. I am not sure why others are getting such low gas mileage (driving style???) but I am getting 19-21 in the city as as much as 25 on the highway and I "get on it" from time to time. I didnt get a fully optioned GLK. (no multi media PKG) but im impressed. The ride is very nice and as of yet, no problems, (4000 miles on ODO). Love the looks and the "solid feel". A real hit in my book.

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  2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class GLK350 4dr - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Schwarz - December 20 - 3:56 am

  I always dreamed of owning a Benz and this car I saw and loved it. After driving it for couple weeks now I have no regrets. Ride and Handling is perfect. Price is very reasonable for the car.

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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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  Small SUV reviewed by father of 2 - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Samuel R. - November 25 - 4:10 am

  Just traded in a Audi Q7 on 01/16/09 after a HORRIBLE experience and picked up the GLK, same day. Looking to downsize, we felt the GLK was a solid choice. Overall, like the look but downsizing, I will have to get used to a small interior. Cargo area is very small. Rear seats are tight for adults. The structure feels VERY solid. 4matic is good in snow but seems to bind up in tight turns on dry roads. So far 2216 miles and its returning 13.1MPG city and 18.7 highway. In other words very thirsty. COMMAND sys is NOT user friendly. Rear view camera is great, ditto for sound sys. Last week though, it was repaired due to a faulty brake system and front rotors were replaced along with hard drive.

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  Amazing Fuel Effieciency!! - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By mukes - November 19 - 3:57 am

  I bought my GLK 350 base 2014 model back in August 2013 for 36k. I have driven around 2500 miles. So far i have not found any issues with the vehicle. Smooth ride, negligible noise while driving. Two important features that i liked the most. 1) It has two modes, ECO/Sport. In ECO mode, when stop at a light, engine stops and saves gas. 2) while stopping at a light uphill, you can just take your legs off from the brake. I was surprised at its fuel efficiency. It gives 24 mpg for city and over 31 for highway. For a V6, what else you can hope for!!!

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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 GLK! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Eileen, Reno, NV - October 25 - 2:00 am

  It was time for me to turn in my 2005 MB C240 lease, and I had no idea which MB I wanted next. My husband spotted the GLK and we decided to test drive it. I loved it immediately, and we leased it on the spot. I drive it every day and am only 52", but my husband, who is 64, drives it on trips and loves it too. It is zippy, gets great gas mileage, and is very solid. I love the interior features and it the Command system is really easy to use. I am going to lease another one when this one ends in July 2012!

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  LOVE it! - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By cch204 - October 17 - 3:51 pm

  Purchased in December of 2013. Since then, we now have 9,200 miles on her. Its great! Love the look of it. Aggressive for a smaller SUV. AND the comfort of it! Options are great. EXCEPT the stock GPS sucks. It cant find its way out of a paper bag. AND, for its cost, there should be more (Standard) options. AND the iPod station keeps forgetting that its plugged in. A back up monitor, better GPS ($3000 option) and tilting mirrors would be groovy standard. Not a lot of room for stuff and the dog.

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  Love it - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Tara sullivan - September 25 - 8:38 pm

  Wonderful car if you want a sporty SUV that doesnt take up a lot of space. Always easy to park in the city, maneuvers well, stylish, comfortable and reliable. But it is a little small if you have 2 or more children.