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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  This SUV is just amazing - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By EDWARD - May 26 - 11:26 am

  I purchased the 2011 GLK 350 after several test drive comparisons with the competition from Europe and Japan. None of them impressed me nearly as much as the GLK 350. The ride seems actually smoother then our 2008 E350 and the handling is excellent. The engine power transfer and output is great and the handling is responsive and precise. The shift and instruments controls are well placed, simple and easy to use. I am amazed that Mercedes is offering this SUV at such a low price. In my opinion it is the best value in the SUV market not just in the premium SUV class. We just came back from a sightseeing trip and couldnt be happier with this SUV.

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  So Far So Good.... - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By David H - May 25 - 3:02 pm

  We have 7000 miles on our 2015 GLK350 now and so far its been outstanding. Mercedes quality is evident in this car with no squeaks, rattles, even on the bumpiest of roads. Engine is powerful for its class. The Eco mode where the engine shuts off after a minute at lights is a great invention. Just lift off the brake pedal and it instantly starts back up with no lag time. My only complaint is that the engine has a slightly rattly sound that reminds me a bit of a diesel, but thats really nit picking at this point. Transmission is seamless, almost electric engine smooth! Interior is outstandingly sharp. My wife picked this car at the dealership for this feature. Very tastefully done (we got the dark wood with aluminium trim). Despite our toddler flinging his milk bottles and turning the back of the car into a white splattered version of a murder scene, everything simply wiped off with a wet rag. Seats are comfy yet firm. The suspension is a bit more firm than I prefer but I also appreciate the confidence the firmness inspires. Definitely more sports car feeling than an SUV (evident in its shared C-Class platform). Now the gripes: - During a rain storm, youre sure to get a bit of a drenching when you open the back doors. The rear rain gutters are ineffective. - The turn signal stalk is always hidden behind the main stalk so youre accidentally turning on the wipers instead of the blinker. - For such a wide vehicle, it sure has little interior space. Our E-Class wagon is narrower yet holds 3 to 4 times as much stuff! Overall, we love this car. Its my wifes main car while I drive our E-Class Wagon. Both cars feel very different and its hard to tell which one I prefer....

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  Great!! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By jwalt1 - April 30 - 12:23 pm

  Bought mine Oct 2011. Its a 2010 and had 30,000 miles on it. Its been 4 months, I have put 10,000 miles on it and I LOVE it. Its comfortable and reliable and I get so many compliments on it. Im ready for it to snow so I can see how it performs on snow and ice.

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  MY MISTAKE - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Melamik - March 7 - 4:46 pm

  I purchased the GLK 350 4matic 3 weeks ago and traded in my Lexus RX330 fromo 2004. That was the biggest mistake I could have made. My Lexus never needed to go into the shop for repairs beside the regular maintenance. My GLK has already been iin the service dept 3 times in 3 weeks. Maybe I bought a lemon and if the problems persist I will be filing for lemon law. I have had instrument problems, electrical issues and some of the fit and finish has not been up to par. I just wish I could turn back time so I didnt trade in my other car.

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  2011 Even Better with AMG Package - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Second One - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Dollar for dollar, the best value out there for performance, luxury and fun factor. Now with 2011 AMG package, its looks match its performance. And somehow the 20" rims with the AMG rider smoother than my 2010. Great SUV. Dont let the smaller size fool you. It holds a lot of cargo, yet remains nimble enough to let you think its a sports car.

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  Saw it, Bought it Love it - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By ruth - January 22 - 8:36 pm

  This car handles well in the city. I love the interior as well as the exterior. It certainly is not a family car , but I didnt purchase it for a family. I bought it for me. And I love it. The only down side is gas mileage. I dont sit in the , so I cant complain about the leg room. I havent had any service related problems at all. The add oil light came on once. I added the oil and kept driving. Im totally sold on this car.

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  a great compact SUV - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By zeit - November 25 - 3:00 am

  great classic exterior and interior look; solid handling at high speed and smooth ride in commuter traffic; and a superb sound system that make driving more than about the getting there.

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  Even my husband loves this little SUV! - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By jrp74 - November 12 - 5:22 am

  Love everything about this car! Attractive, sporty, quiet, comfortable with intuitive controls, excellent safety features, and luxurious options--all at an excellent price! The rear seat is large enough to comfortably accommodate our 12-year old and 9-year old, and I find the cargo space to be more than adequate for what we typically use it for (groceries, runs to to the recycling center). Would recommend getting the keyless entry and ignition option, though--after owning an Infiniti M45 that had it, it is sorely missed.

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  Stepping up to a Mercedes Benz - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By J Olson - October 10 - 6:09 am

  Love the boxy look and full window viewing of this model SUV. Its offers a comfy ride. Love it!

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  Wind sound - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Carole - October 9 - 3:09 am

  I love my car with two exceptions. There is a constant wind sound inside the vehicle. I took it to be repaired and they advised this a design problem with the vehicle. Told they all sound like this. "Its normal". Also disappointed in the gas mileage performance.