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2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 BlueTEC Preview

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Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Summary
This year, 2013, marks the introduction of the 250 BlueTEC version of the famous GLK mid-size luxury SUV. This version is powered by a 4-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine that goes a long way towards 'greening' this vehicle when compared to its standard gas-powered sibling that consumes nearly 15 L/100 km. The GLK has been thoroughly civilized.

Pros
Good visibility, practical format, quiet interior.

Cons
The ECO system is not available in the BlueTEC version.

Price
The MSRP starts at $43,500.

Fuel Economy
Fuel-economy ratings are a reported 7.5 L/100 km city and 5.8 L/100 km highway.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

New and Improved
Certain small exterior design changes have been applied such as those to the grille as well as an elegant LED strip that has been added above the headlights. The interior has been slightly updated but not overhauled. The outstanding feature of the 250 BlueTEC is, without a doubt, its engine. A Mercedes 4-cylinder diesel engine has finally made it back to our shores after a 28-year absence.

Exterior Styling
Strong mass-appeal design.

Cargo Capacity
The GLK 250 BlueTEC has 450 litres of trunk space which expands to 1,500 with lowered seats.

Drivetrain
An inline 4-cylinder 2.1 litre twin-turbo engine that produces 190 hp and 369 lb-ft torque.

Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: 5/5
Frontal collision test score: 5/5
Airbags: 7

Tip
Even though the GLK is an all-terrain vehicle with four-wheel drive, few drivers will take this $40,000 unit off-roading. The 250 BlueTEC is a Mercedes all-terrain offering that is suited for its true purpose: urban cruising.

Comparable Models
'Green' models: Volkswagen Tiguan
Others: Audi Q5, BMW X1/X3, GMC Acadia, Acura RDX

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

References
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013

Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)




Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Marie-Andrée Ayotte
Automotive expert
None