2010 Mercedes Benz GLK350 4Matic
Categories: Car Reviews
Written By: admin
After spending a week at its wheel, I’m surprised that I don’t see more Mercedes GLK350s on our roads. There’s good value here in a vehicle that seems to offer the practicalities of the best-selling Lexus RX350, but with a dash more character.
Perhaps the Benz doesn’t sell like the Asian segment leader because it’s shorter (by 9.5 inches), meaning that entry into the second row is tight. But it’ll still swallow a mountain bike without the need to remove a wheel, and overall it is quite comfortable for four. And the GLK’s interior is very well assembled, with some nicely beveled real burl wood, nicely turned-out leather, and soft-touch plastics—though vinyl seats and aluminum trim is standard fare. Interfaces and tech are current Benz; that is to say intuitive and thoughtfully configured. The RX350’s haptic interface does make these feel dated, however.
I would say the Mercedes is a much more rewarding drive, even if its steering offers no more feel than that of the Lexus. Its ride is at least as good (on the standard 19” wheel/tire combo), and it handles with a lot more verve and better body control.
The GLK350 also has a great powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 with 268hp and 258lb-ft of torque hooked to the ubiquitous Benz 7-speed self-shifter. Lighter weight than most competitors means it matches them to 60 with mid-six second runs, and turns in good fuel economy in the low-20s mpg range, despite its bluff exterior.
That sheetmetal may explain something; in my experience it is polarizing. Some loved its 7/8ths scale G-wagon vibe, others thought is silly and overwrought. It has done very well in style-conscious markets, though much of its visual appeal is dependent on what wheels it rides upon—the Sport package’s cause it to cohere better.
If value was any matter, things would all be going the Benz’s way; it starts cheaper than most all competitors, and even well equipped still often boasts the lowest sticker. To me, that you don’t see them everywhere you go is an asset—though I’m not sure Mercedes would agree. That ‘specialness’, combined with the inherent allure of the 3-pointed star, and the GLK350’s goodness, make it an excellent crossover in my book.
Price as tested: $45,665
Here’s what Mercedes has to say about the GLK350
