2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4MATIC Review

Compact Size Embodies Plenty of Style

Article by Rob Rothwell (Auto123.com),

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Page 1 of 3
Previous
1
2
3
Next

The GLK350 is a completely new vehicle for Mercedes-Benz. It addresses a gap in their SUV/crossover lineup that until now had buyers of compact SUVs shopping elsewhere. Loyal Mercedes-Benz owners can now remain with the premium manufacturer while conforming to the "less is more" trend that's dominating the automotive marketplace of late.

With a base price of $41,800, the GLK350 is one of the less expensive Mercedes-Benz vehicles to purchase.

Distinctive Mercedes-Benz styling
The bold, sharply defined lines of the GLK350 give this compact rig a larger than life image despite being shorter in length than BMW's compact X3 and Subaru's new Forester. To my eye, the GLK's squared-off wheel openings and fairly upright windshield give it a slight "retro" look.

Irrespective of how one chooses to interpret the GLK's edgy sheet metal, there's no denying that it sets this unit apart from the masses of compact SUVs that blend together in mall parking lots across North America. And with a big tri-star emblem fronting its imposing grille, the GLK's Mercedes-Benz DNA is hard to miss.

Moving inside the aptly sized GLK exposes one to a business-oriented premium cabin that's understated and not overly decorative. Ergonomically, the GLK cabin is a standout. In keeping with German automotive tradition, the 10-way power-operated seats in the GLK350 are notably firm but immensely comfortable, especially for long stints behind the wheel. In fact, I doubt a more supportive perch can be found anywhere, at any price.

Leg and headroom in all five seating positions is generous, especially up front where seat travel fore-and-aft and up-and-down is quite remarkable. All switchgear, levers and controls impart a high quality feel. The heat/air conditioning controls are basic and foolproof but the same can't be said for the many small buttons attributable to the audio interface; some simplification here would be appreciated.

Power and performance
A 3.5-litre V6 engine capable of dispatching 268 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque @ 2,400-5,000 rpm powers the GLK350. The abundance of low-end torque is quite satisfying; it effortlessly propels the vehicle without forcing the engine to rev unpleasantly.

When rapid acceleration is needed, the GLK350 stands up and delivers. Mercedes-Benz literature boasts an impressive 0-100kph time of just 6.7 seconds, and I have no quarrel with that figure. As such, the GLK350 is no slouch, making quick work of highway passing and hill climbing.