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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  A 2-wheel Gas Guzzler! - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By foolcertified - December 22 - 4:04 am

  Leased a 2-wheel drive 2011 GLK-350 from Caliber Motors w/bad lease tuin April this year to replace the 2008 E350 due to too many unsafe blind spots. After driven 3 months of the GLK-350, here are my personal driving experience of this half-breed SUV:Pros:Not too high, not to low, the height is just about right, not too many blind spots as the 2008 E350, better visibility, quiet, good chairs, maneuverability okay Cons:A terrible 2-wheel drive GAS GUZZLER!Gas consumption worse than E350, worse than 1999 ML320.Soft brakes, hesitant accelerating, ugly side mirrors,rear blind spots,worst turning radius, stupid GPS navigator,knob control,small screen,a German JOKE! Bad heat penetrating moon roof

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  Comfort and Utility - - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By jkf398 - December 18 - 9:00 pm

  After four satisfying years in a BMW 3- series, I decided to mix it up a bit. After test-driving the Toyota Venza, BMW X3, VW Tiguan, Ford Edge, Acura RDX, and Porsche Cayenne, it took only 15 minutes in the GLK to make up my mind. This is a chiseled, tough- looking little CUV that drives serenely and quietly, but that also pours on the coal when needed. I went with a loaded version that includes leather, rear-seat DVD, tow package, and Premium One + Nav, and I truly feel like Im in a strong, beautifully- made, and multi-use vehicle that is small enough to handle like a car and big enough to carry chairs to our storage facility. Its not an inexpensive car, but doesnt feel like one either!

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  Great lines - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By william craft - December 17 - 1:43 pm

  Best looking small SUV out there. Price is very reasonable. Smooth ride found in E class. I love the true dual exhaust.

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  Two years later and still loving it! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By carbuff50 - December 3 - 3:47 am

  We have driven it 14,000 miles so far over the past two years-it has been flawless in every way. Feels solid like it was carved out of one piece of steel, handles great and looks terrific. Average about 19mpg in town-highway is a better.

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  GLK great lookin kat - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By adam - November 19 - 1:03 am

  I love it. I just got a White one with the 20 inch wheels multimedia package and premium one package. It is so nice but I had it for three days and I already need to get gas and I only drove 20 miles to work.

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  Went down from a GL450 and couldnt be happier - 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By cmkx1 - November 15 - 12:50 pm

  We traded our 07GL450, which was less than a stellar benz...see suspension... I was skeptical when we were looking around with the GL in service, but was absolutely impressed with the GLK. Fun to drive...Not horrible with storage. We sacrificed our third row seats, but with the gas we were spending this was well worth it. So far the gas mileage is better than average even in the city. As for the ride the GL reminded me more of a lexus. The suspension is a little firmer but it rides awesome. I also have an 11 C300 and MB has done a great job with this platform.

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  Comfortable but not reliable - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By disappointedMBZowner - November 7 - 10:43 pm

  I loved that GLK350 was so smooth, it is my first Mercedes. My SUV was purchase on 5/21/2009, and at 90 miles the radio/command center would not power on. So I brought the SUV to the dealer they checked it out for a day and said there was nothing wrong. A week later at 110 miles the Tire Pressure Monitoring system malfunctioned. And would report tire pressure issues. Now it just says Tire Pressure Monitoring system is inoperable. And the radio still dies. I have brought the car back to dealership and they are looking into these issues. Its been a day and still they dont know whats wrong :( If you are considering buying GLK350 you should think twice. As the build quality is sub par.

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  GLK350 - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By tcornejo - October 2 - 4:32 pm

  Bought the car for the name only.

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  GLK on the go - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By charlie taylor jr - September 27 - 1:46 pm

  purchased 3 18 09.in shop twice for radio.drove range rover,looked at lexus sold on looks of glk.drive very well.I THINK IT SHOULD BURN MIDDLE GRADE GAS. A finu suv.With the cost there should have benn acargo net and acargo cover

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  Comfortable Capable Cruiser; Unreliable - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
  By Justice Charles & Co - August 23 - 10:30 am

  Traded in a leased MB ML350 and decided to downsize now that the kids are driving alone. Had several unresolved issues with the ML but decided to give MB a fresh chance. Overall, my wife and I enjoy driving this right sized SUV. Im 62" but I fit comfortably and the position is good although rear seat comfort and room is cramped. Large double sunroof is nice touch. Nice interior design but cheap/loose bits have surfaced in less than 6 months 7k miles. Fuel is acceptable at 17MPG average. Reliability has been horrific- two individual instances of electrical failure in the stability control system/ABS/ESP. Navigation sys was replaced. Climate control failure, was waiting 3 weeks for part.