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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  Great Luxury Crossover Vehicle - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Joon - January 29 - 11:16 am

  My wife fell in love with this vehicle immediately. I too was very impressed. Everything about our vehicle is great except for the brake - - too much dead travel. I had several close call with rear ending another vehicle. We even took the vehicle in for brake pad replacement, but the result is the same. They say that it performs and functions to factory specification. I guess, we just have to get used to braking early. Overall, get luxury vehicle and worth the extra money over its Japanese competition -- rather no comparison.

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  Most Excellent! - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By wpaoli - December 22 - 9:44 pm

  The GLK is exactly what I was looking for. A lot of the SUVs out there today are nothing more than mini-vans designed to appeal to male drivers. That being said, I purchased the GLK for two reasons: performance and quality. The GLK moves; its nimble, deceivingly quick (when in sport mode) and it holds corners very well. The paddle shifters are awesome! The exterior has very distinct, bold lines and the interior is luxury as it should be. If you have need for more cargo room than a sedan, but dont want sacrifice performance... the GLK is for you. Oh, and its a Mercedes- German engineering. Need I say more?

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  Best MB Ive owned - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By JT - December 10 - 3:56 pm

  I was skeptical when I traded my ML350 for the GLK350. But, the GLK is much easier to handle. Im not sure how reliable it will be. My ML was only 2 years old with only 6100 miles on it and ESP, Ignition, and Brakes were all problems. I would have bought a Honda, but they would not take the ML on trade. So, MB bought it back at Half the price I paid (29K, paid 59K), and that was only if I bought another MB. Im hoping for better luck with the GLK. At least this time I only spent 40K.

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  One word: Awesome!!!!!!! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Ty - December 8 - 4:53 pm

  I owned my GLK for a month now. I used to own a ML350 and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. My GLK drives like a sport/luxury sedan but roomy as a small SUV. Compared to my ML350 spends less gas. If you are a young professional who can not choose between and SUV and a Sports car GLK is the ticket. Make sure to get the Xenon packet and sports packet since they really set the car apart. Real head turner ;)

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  Great Vehicle - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Magic - September 17 - 2:50 pm

  I always dreamed of buying and owning a Benz and when I saw this beauty I had to get it. After driving it for three weeks now I have no regrets. It feels like a rugged luxury SUV yet drives like a race car. It takes off like a rocket but drives so smooth. Love everything about the car.

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  THE GLK 350 MYTH- EDITH - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By EDITH - September 11 - 9:07 am

  This is a great car until you become familiar with it. It has looks,style and attractiveness,but the pros generally stop there. None of the controls are intuitive. The voice commands only control the nav system. My 2014 Honda Accord Touring could make calls,turn on the air, ch ange the temperature and several other things. This car is luxury in name only,because it has the Mercedes name tag. In my personal opinion, the cost to value ratio is about 75%. I would not buy this vehicle again

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  Best medium size SUV - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Pascal - July 29 - 8:23 pm

  After each driving it for 10mn, both my wife and I were sold to this little marvelous SUV. Quality of the workmanship is visible in every details. Engine with 268 HP, 250 pounds of torque and the 7 speed automatic transmission are a perfect match to deliver plenty of power when needed. Car handling is similar to a sporty sedan, extra eight of an SUV is not felt at all. We look at Q5, X60, X3 which are great vehicles but they are no match for what the GLK delivers overall.

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  GLK Transmission Problem - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By carshopper73 - July 29 - 1:23 am

  I have a 2010 Mercedes GLK with 17,000 miles. I just had to get the transmission replaced. At first they told me it was the wheel bearings. Then the next day they called me and said it was not the wheel bearings but instead they needed to replace the transmission. I went online and saw other owners with the same problem! I was thinking about buying the car after my lease is up but I just changed my mind. Not sure what other problems are lurking.

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  Amazing vech again by mercedes - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Bahkis - July 19 - 4:03 am

  have money

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  Ive Found My Brand. - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By 5280realtor - June 6 - 2:23 am

  Excellent vehicle, all around. Sure, it has some weaknesses, but through and through this thing is an impeccably built tank. Ive waited awhile to review this small SUV until living with it for some time (not quite 2 years now). Ive previously owned Lexus, Saab, and several BMWs. The GLK demonstrates what Mercedes-Benz is all about, and this is (was) their 2nd least expensive model -- bodes well for the more expensive lines. Ive had exactly one problem with the car in nearly 25,000 miles; a failed wheel bearing that the dealer had only ever seen twice before on the GLK. Lets not discuss how many times my SAAB saw the dealer in 25,000 miles, nor the BMW for that matter.