Classic-looking cabin
Like the exterior, the cabin delivers a classical look with a modern flare. Black is the color of choice-- but it’s brightened up and tied together with silver and chrome accenting. Those who like a fighter-jet layout may find it a bit plain-- but the deliberately simple, tidy and concise layout helps with a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.
Controls are easy to use once drivers familiarize themselves with their operation, and there’s a great looking instrument cluster with built-in driver computer as well. Storage facilities are adequate, and all the standard must-haves were on board. The tester even got a panoramic sunroof, household power outlet and motorized liftgate thanks to the premium package.
Automated comfort and traction
The GLK currently gets a single drivetrain option: a 3.5 litre, 268 horsepower V6 bolted to a 7-speed automatic. The engine and transmission put on a smooth performance, the powerplant sounds lovely, and there’s flexible thrust available right across the RPM-range.
My mileage averaged around 11.5L / 100km, but strangely, the engine requires premium fuel. Numerous comparable units make similar or greater power output on regular.
4Matic all wheel drive is standard. This proven system constantly sends power to all four wheels, so there’s no slippage required to engage additional traction. GLK isn’t intended for boulder-crawling or turf-tossing, but it should feel confident and bolted-down on any surface or trail.
Also standard is an ‘Agility Control’ suspension system which adjusts shock damping in real time for optimized comfort and handling. The ride ranges from cushy and comfortable to softly sporty-- depending on the terrain. On my test, Agility Control was most appreciated on gravel camp roads with washboard surfaces. The GLK’s ride was surprisingly easygoing here, and all my fillings remained intact.
Enjoy the ride
No driver control of either the 4Matic or Agility Control systems is possible, so owners are simply left to hop in and enjoy the drive. Helping on this front are a relatively muted ride and enough cabin capacity for 4 grown-ups or the average-sized family of five. Cargo space is adequate, even generous with the rear seats folded down, too. Of course, those frequently traveling with five or more adults and their gear will need to consider something bigger.
Most young couples, small families, grandparents and single professionals will find the GLK a just-right size, though. For most of these folks, it brings the confidence and stability of a far bigger machine to a more sensible and realistic package.
Pricing is refreshingly realistic too, with the GLK 350 starting under $42,000.
photo:Justin Pritchard
Like the exterior, the cabin delivers a classical look with a modern flare. Black is the color of choice-- but it’s brightened up and tied together with silver and chrome accenting. Those who like a fighter-jet layout may find it a bit plain-- but the deliberately simple, tidy and concise layout helps with a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.
Controls are easy to use once drivers familiarize themselves with their operation, and there’s a great looking instrument cluster with built-in driver computer as well. Storage facilities are adequate, and all the standard must-haves were on board. The tester even got a panoramic sunroof, household power outlet and motorized liftgate thanks to the premium package.
Automated comfort and traction
The GLK currently gets a single drivetrain option: a 3.5 litre, 268 horsepower V6 bolted to a 7-speed automatic. The engine and transmission put on a smooth performance, the powerplant sounds lovely, and there’s flexible thrust available right across the RPM-range.
My mileage averaged around 11.5L / 100km, but strangely, the engine requires premium fuel. Numerous comparable units make similar or greater power output on regular.
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| Like the exterior, the cabin delivers a classical look with a modern flare. |
4Matic all wheel drive is standard. This proven system constantly sends power to all four wheels, so there’s no slippage required to engage additional traction. GLK isn’t intended for boulder-crawling or turf-tossing, but it should feel confident and bolted-down on any surface or trail.
Also standard is an ‘Agility Control’ suspension system which adjusts shock damping in real time for optimized comfort and handling. The ride ranges from cushy and comfortable to softly sporty-- depending on the terrain. On my test, Agility Control was most appreciated on gravel camp roads with washboard surfaces. The GLK’s ride was surprisingly easygoing here, and all my fillings remained intact.
Enjoy the ride
No driver control of either the 4Matic or Agility Control systems is possible, so owners are simply left to hop in and enjoy the drive. Helping on this front are a relatively muted ride and enough cabin capacity for 4 grown-ups or the average-sized family of five. Cargo space is adequate, even generous with the rear seats folded down, too. Of course, those frequently traveling with five or more adults and their gear will need to consider something bigger.
Most young couples, small families, grandparents and single professionals will find the GLK a just-right size, though. For most of these folks, it brings the confidence and stability of a far bigger machine to a more sensible and realistic package.
Pricing is refreshingly realistic too, with the GLK 350 starting under $42,000.
photo:Justin Pritchard
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