2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

Adding another SUV—even a crossover—in the midst of a frightfully distressed economy might not seem like the wisest course. Mercedes-Benz would beg to disagree, noting that the new GLK-Class falls into the premium compact category, well removed from the German automaker's other offerings. Marketers anticipate strong growth in the entry-level SUV segment, which the GLK clearly occupies. Bernhard Glaser, general manager for product management, explained that the 2010 GLK350 "doesn't look like a small M-Class," referring to the company's best-selling SUV, as redesigned for 2006. Neither is it a smaller version of the GL-Class.

Styling & Space

Measuring some 10 inches shorter than the M-Class, the 178.3-inch GLK-Class differs even more in overall length from the company's RL- and GL-Class models. Mercedes-Benz also made the GLK-Class a lot lighter: some 700 pounds less than the M-Class. "We prefer to call it right-sizing," says Mercedes-Benz communications director Geoff Day.


Though led by a relatively upright windshield, the GLK350 exhibits its share of curves, with integrated flared fenders, an integrated rear spoiler, and what Mercedes calls an "aggressive" grille. Some chrome accents decorate the body, but Mercedes-Benz suggests that it's actually a "modern interpretation" of the starkly upright, militaristic G-Class wagon. An angular nose demonstrates kinship to other Mercedes models, yet sets the GLK apart from softly curved competitors. Standard 10-spoke alloy wheels hold 235x19 tires, but 20-inch tires are available.


Aluminum trims the GLK interior, except when Beige/Almond upholstery is installed. In that case, burl walnut substitutes for aluminum. Full leather upholstery is an option. Rear seats in the five-passenger cockpit fold flat. Cargo volume totals 54.7 cubic feet with the back seats folded, and 23.3 cubic feet with all seats in the raised position.

Power, Safety & Performance

Just one powertrain is offered: a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 258 pound-feet of torque, driving a seven-speed automatic transmission. A true dual exhaust system is fitted. Fuel economy is good for its class, though not exactly frugal. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) gives the two-wheel-drive GLK350 an estimate of 16 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway. Full-time 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) drops the highway figure to 21 mpg. Torque distribution with AWD is 45 percent to front wheels and 55 percent to the rears. Towing capacity can reach 3,500 pounds. Mercedes-Benz estimates 0-60 mph acceleration in a brisk 6.5 seconds.


Safety is a significant selling point, with six airbags as well as an Electronic Stability Program, traction control, antilock braking, and Brake Assist that enhances halting in emergency situations. Adaptive Brakes incorporate Hill Start Assist, Dry Braking, and Pre-Pressure operation. Agility Control is Mercedes' name for its automatic-adjusting suspension, which is called purely hydro-mechanical.


Standard equipment includes eight-way power driver and passenger seats, dual-zone climate control, privacy glass, fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a five-inch display screen. With the Multimedia package, a seven-inch screen occupies that space.