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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  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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  Panzerkampfwagen - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Shawnski - September 14 - 10:36 am

  Our lease was up on our 07 X3. We looked at the GLK, LR2, and Volvo XC60. None of them drove as percisely as the X3, however as this is my wifes vehicle comfort is more important than sportiness. The GLK by far was the most refined in terms of quietness and smooth ride. While the GLK is not quite as roomy as the X3 (backseat and cargo area) it has a very relaxed manor about it - while the X3 is always taut. Both have impeccable build quality - really outstanding, with an edge going to the GLK for a satisfying door shut, although the X3 has superior inside door handles. I recommend the GLK for its refined comfort in a tidy sized package. Aggressive drivers need not apply.

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  My little run around SUV - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Donna Brazill - July 29 - 6:21 am

  I love the size of this vehicle! I spend thousands of miles on the road in my car each year and I feel safe and comfy in this car like SUV. My husband loves to drive it! Its diesel and I have (after 16k) miles been averaging 37-45 miles per gallon. The seats are still pretty firm and hard, and after 26k miles still not as comfy as I had hoped. The navigation system is not very intuitive and a bit cumbersome to operate...time consuming actually. I do not live in the city so once I go off a paved road its essentially useless to me. This is a huge problem in rural areas. Had I known this prior to purchase I would not have bought this car. You must be stopped to enter data which can be a problem if youre already lost in a dicey area! In rural areas where I frequently travel, the turn by turn directions are non-existent. Diesel engine is quite a bit noisier than Toureg Diesel I previously owned. I have not been able to get the voice command training working so I can accept calls or enter directions verbally. Overall, this is a nice car and perfect for my needs, very responsive on curvy roads and mountains. Not terribly sure footed in heavy snow. Lots of light, large windshield and sunroof. The rear seats lay down nicely for larger cargo area and perfect for taking dogs along. Nice visibility overall. I am kind of surprised that I need new brakes already as my other cars went many more miles before needing any attention.

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  a BMW killer? I dont think so - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By johnwr - June 9 - 6:03 pm

  The navigation system we paid $1200 for (or more precisely, got robbed for)—it is a piece of junk, worst GPS we ever used and we have used quite a few different brands and models. This is simply the worse than the worst. The interface is extremely clumsy and slow to use, the features are limited, some address cannot be found, wrong routes, etc. The traffic update (TMC) is a joke since you have to manually check the text messages for each road on the list. At 8 time price of a touch screen Garmin 1450 with Life Time Map and Traffic update we got 1/8 of the features, functionalities, accuracy and quality.

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  2500 miles in, so far so good - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By glayfan40 - April 1 - 3:36 am

  Have been driving the GLK250 since the end of June 13 and have had no major complaints so far. Zero problems (mechanical or electrical) encountered and its simply a solid vehicle overall. Have been averaging 30-31 MPG after 5 fill-ups in 80/20 Hwy/City driving. Thats from my own mileage calculations but frankly the on-board trip computer is not too far off (within 0.5-1MPG accuracy). Im not exactly a lead-foot but I dont drive like a granny either (Im 28 years old). This thing just eats road imperfection for lunch - I live in the NE region so there is plenty of that around. Cant wait to test out the 4Matic performance in the snow in another month or so.

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  Its my Wifes Car...But I always want the keys! - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By amickey - March 13 - 11:49 am

  As the title says I love this crossover. We bought for my wife trading up from a Camry for the MB build quality, cache, edgy looks, vast options list, performance, & impeccable safety. I, on the other hand, love the sportiness, muscular lines, AMG styling & wheels and MB build. Another importance for us was that this crossover stands out in a crowd of blobbed aero shaped vehicle that really are just miniature wannabe of their bigger brethren. Class doesnt mean following the herd.

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  Great Car - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Cam-Guy - January 25 - 4:03 am

  Love it, in Mars Red, or Fire Opal in Canada. Drove a few thousand KM so far and its fantastic, AC is amazing no hot or cold spots. The ride is good and the seats comfortable. Easy in and out. Sun shade a great feature, all the electronics are useful too. Gas premium only, not so great, but OK, to get performance.

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  Great Car so far - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By lightls - July 19 - 3:26 pm

  My positive reactions to this car far out way any negative feelings. We have had severe snow for the last three weeks and it seems impossible to get stuck. It goes through everything. The upright angle of the windshield tends to collect too many bugs during summer and the climate controls and cruise control lever are in an poor location. Power is reminiscent of the V8s back in the 60s except smooth. I have gotten up to 24 MPG on a long trip driving at 65 the whole way and I have gotten as low as 17 when pushing the gas peddle harder. Back seat room is minimal and there is not much space for holding things outside the glove box, or in the glove box for that matter. The ride is sweet and quiet.

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  Sunroop Shatters While Driving on Highway - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By fitness151 - October 22 - 5:24 pm

  Hello, I would like to share my review regarding a newly purchased 2013 GLK 350 4 Matic. I made my first long distance road trip on 18 December 2013 from Virginia to Tennessee, then Louisiana and to return back to Virginia after the Holiday. As I was making my drive through Charlotte NC on I 85, at approximately 4:23 pm on 27 Dec 13, I heard a loud pop. I thought my tire had blew. I heard wind like noise and looked up and there it was. My sunroof had shattered. My shade was covered so no glass entered the car. The outside of the sunroof had spider lines. Nothing had fallen...it just popped. So now the SUV is at MB of Alexandria. I read reviews of issues with other cars and MBs as well. Wow!