2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
- Used Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
Based on analysis of 17 GLK-Class reviews and test drives.
Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class ranks 4 out of 7 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The all-new GLK-Class, the first compact SUV from Mercedes, boasts excellent driving dynamics and upscale style. However, in a highly competitive class, its small backseat and middle-of-the-pack fuel economy are disappointments.
Though it was officially unveiled at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, the GLK-Class made its first appearance on Rodeo Drive as part of a scene in summer 2008's Sex and the City movie. "I was genuinely surprised at how much I enjoyed the GLK," says About.com. "Normally, a cramped back seat and crummy gas mileage would be enough to put me off an SUV. Not so with the GLK -- I like the way it looks, I like the way it drives, and I like the price."
The GLK's base price is quite low considering that it's a Mercedes -- but along with its fuel economy, the price is only about average for its class. Plus, its interior quality disappoints reviewers because it isn't up to the usual the Mercedes standard. So why should you buy this new SUV over some of its more established competitors?
The GLK's main draws are the Mercedes prestige and its especially smooth, car-like ride. Its chief rival, the sporty BMW X3, offers only marginally better fuel economy and is also the most expensive luxury compact SUV -- its base price is several thousand dollars more than the GLK's. If you're not all that interested in performance and you're willing to pay a bit more, you may be better off buying the X3 or Audi Q5. Then again, if you want a more affordable option than the GLK, consider the Volkswagen Tiguan, a particularly upscale affordable compact SUV.
The GLK is based on the C-Class sedan's chassis. It comes in one trim, the GLK 350, with optional 4Matic all-wheel drive.
- "The GLK-Class is not as outright sporty as many premium compact SUV competitors, but it does provide a more practical package and better ride than most. A comfortable cabin, refined drivetrain, and a car-like driving experience are other positive attributes. The GLK's base prices are competitive, but options can quickly raise the bottom line." -- Consumer Guide
- "OK, so the interior quality is somewhat patchy by Mercedes-Benz's vastly improved standards of late and there's just one engine choice for the time being. But in many other areas the new Mercedes-Benz GLK shows class-leading qualities, particularly in terms of driveline refinement and overall chassis competence." -- Edmunds
- "Compared with the X3, the Benz brings more power and torque, an additional cog in the transmission, superior interior room, and, based on our drive in Spain, a more solid and ‘SUV-like' character." -- Motor Trend
- "The new GLK350 is a likeable package with a very high level of standard and optional equipment -- pity about the average fuel economy, though. Still, we think this car's impressive dynamics and capability make a strong case for those who want a quick and sporty wagon." -- Popular Mechanics
- "Overall, I liked the GLK. Ditch most of the options, and you've got an excellent all-wheel drive vehicle that's both stylish and relatively affordable ...for a luxury vehicle." -- Chicago Sun-Times
GLK-Class Performance - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is loved for its power and car-like performance. "Mercedes designed the GLK to drive like a car, and I was surprised at how well they nailed it," says About.com. "The GLK has the same light, direct steering feel as the C-Class sedan, with negligible body lean in turns. The ride is smooth and even, though there's more tire noise than might be expected." Some test drivers, however, have complaints about the GLK's light steering. Read More
GLK-Class Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The all-new GLK-Class looks a bit boxy for a crossover SUV and resembles its manufacturer's larger offerings, such as the M-Class. "We liked the GLK's styling, with its distinctly angular grille, steeply raked windscreen and tall spoke wheels," says Popular Mechanics. Read More
GLK-Class Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The GLK's cabin is a mixed bag. Reviewers are impressed with its equipment list, considering the SUV's good base price, but they don't feel the cabin materials measure up to the Mercedes standard. The rear seats are also cramped. "The interior of the production GLK is relatively minimalist," says Left Lane News. "The center stack is almost perfectly vertical and features gray plastics that don't seem to be up to Mercedes-Benz quality." For more well-liked interiors, consider the Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60. Read More
GLK-Class Safety - NA
The 2010 Mercedes GLK-Class has not yet been crash-tested by the federal government or insurance industry, which is typical of luxury cars in this price range. But it comes with enough safety features to reassure any buyer. Read More
GLK-Class Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The GLK-Class comes with the Mercedes limited warranty, which runs for 48 months or 50,000 miles. Read More
