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 41 through 50 of 156.00-
Great Ride - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Great Ride - December 23 - 3:33 pmOnly had the car a few weeks. Had the illuminated door sills installed after purchase and had a problem at the dealer with this. If you want this option, order it factory installed. Major project! Looks great though. Took it on a 2000 mile trip through Arizona and Nevada, had no problems. Gas mileage was a shocker although I should have known this beforehand.
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Everything I expected - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Dean - October 31 - 6:13 amI had been looking at this vehicle since it hit the MBUSA website in 6/08. I loved the styling inside and out. I got the premium package 1 with navigation and I-pod. Everything has worked like a dream since I purchased in 11/09. I drive very conservatively and have been able to get 22 average mpg in city/highway driving. I have been waiting to write a review until I took it on a road trip. On a 2000 mile trip I still only got 22.5 mpg. Not too disappointed though since it was so much fun to drive. I also purchased chrome handle inserts and rubber floor mats. The chrome inserts add a touch of class and the floor mats will add durability because I plan on having this car a long time.
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Strong Class Entry - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By EBESQ - July 28 - 10:10 amI looked at other CUVs- Highlander, x3- GLK was the strongest value for the dollar, significantly cheaper than the x3. Having owned Volvo, BMW, Audi and Lexus (and a Toyota Highlander), I feel like I have a good idea of how a car should handle, ride and feel in a given price segment. The GLK delivers on all fronts, hands down. Bank vault solidity, no body flex to speak of and air bags galore. Styling is truly the most significant of all in the CUV class- clean lines, no "melted bar of soap" styling.
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Absolutely LOVE my Benz - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Denise - July 12 - 10:56 pmAfter six months of agonizing research, price comparisons and test drives on three cars; the Toyota Highlander, the Nissan Murano and the Mercedes Benz GLK 350, I finally chose the biggest bang for my buck and in doing so made the best decision of my life. I chose the Mercedes Benz GLK 350. My little tank drives like a race car and rides like a luxury SUV. The GLK is solid-built, luxurious and quality-filled. I would recommend to everyone who asks. Love all the looks, thumbs up and second takes my Benz gets too. Its an absolute beautiful car with a sporty look. The engineering on this car far exceeds any other models. So far no problems whatsoever and I am so glad I chose my MB GLK.
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Almost missed out - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By tribefan - July 7 - 6:53 amWe had looked at and test drove the RX350 and Q5. We had decided on buying the Q5 when my wife saw an ad for the GLK. As soon as we got in the car and drove the first quarter mile I was sold. It is a solid, quiet, well built car. Although the GLK is not as big as the RX350 and Q5 I am 6 foot 240 lbs and have plenty of room whether in the driver, passenger, or back seat. Love the heated seats and COMMAND system. Noticed others have commented on brake and transmission problems. I have had none, brakes and trans are solid just like the rest of the car. What struck me was you do not have to raise your voice to be heard, even at freeway speeds. Beautiful car.
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Faulty Traction Control (ESP), Loses Power on Road - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Vinod Patel - May 25 - 8:50 pmThe "esp inoperative" message pops up frequently,
even when the weather and road conditions are warm, dry and clear. When it occurs, the car seems to loose acceleration (power) and slows down (rather very quickly on roadway sloping up). Pressing the gas pedal would not speed up the car immediately; it would after a while. When this occurs, i pull over the car and turn it off & on to get rid of the "esp inoperative" message. This has happened on high speed expressway as well. It felt very dangerous and unsafe since a truck was approaching closely behind. I was fortunate to pull over on the shoulder and turn off/on the car. This appears to be associated with a faulty part, sensor or software that needs to be fixed by the car manufacturer. I bought this car brand new in October 2014 and it currently has 5940 miles. It was serviced by dealership in October 2015 for 12-month maintenance. This problem is very dangerous because the SUV loses power while Im on the road. This problem should not even occur once. It is a life threatening issue.
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Very pleased - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By coadster - April 28 - 4:43 amVery solid, sharp vehicle. Feels like it is carved out of one piece of steel.
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Issue with brakes - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By JJ - March 20 - 9:16 pmA Mercedes through and through, except the brakes. Same platform as the C class sedan and apparently same brakes which are not strong enough. Have to pump them once to get them to grab like they should. Dealership said theyve had similar complaints and MB is working on a resolution. They better do it quickly - braking is very below average and possibly dangerous.
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Amazing Benz - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By NH Benz guy - March 1 - 10:00 amI love this car. I traded in my 2008 Saab 9-3 aero xwd for it. I loved my saab so much but I needed more room and since I moved to the city, got tired of the standard transmission. The GLK has great edgy looks and a powerful V6. The 268 hp in this car feels so much better than in the ML350 since it weighs hundreds of pounds less. Great long distance comfort and very stable at high speeds. Had it up to 120 and it felt rock solid as a true Mercedes should.
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Edmunds and Carfax excellent research tools - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
By Craig Wojciekofsky - February 28 - 3:44 pmget the Carfax report
