Modified C-Class platform underpins the GLK
The GLK rides upon a heavily modified C-Class platform, and that's not a bad place to start. The C-Class has been winning accolades for its handling and stability. To address off-road needs, suspension travel has been lengthened while spring rates and roll-bar stiffness was revised to deal effectively with the taller body of the GLK.
During our on-road testing, the reengineered suspension performed marvelously. Regular to-and-fro driving was made pleasurable by the suppleness evident in the calibration. When tossed hard into a corner, the fully independent arrangement firms itself to eliminate body roll while securely holding the GLK in the chosen line.
Off road sojourns benefit from the longer built-in travel. It's important to note that the GLK is not a vehicle with outstanding ground clearance, nor was it intended to be. Minimum ground clearance is pegged at 201-mm. To compensate for potential ground clearance deficits, extremely robust GMtex (manufacturer's name) paneling guards the underbelly of the GLK when the off-road package is selected.
This product is lighter than metal and stronger. It's designed to withstand the entire weight of the vehicle when a protrusion contacts the chassis. All vital parts are protected while the panel enables the vehicle to slide over an object without inflicting harm.
Multiple power sources in-use but only one available in Canada
The Canadian GLK will be initially restricted to a single powerplant, that being a 3.5-litre DOHC V6 capable of producing 272 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 258 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,400 rpm. European versions will offer a smaller V6 engine along with diesel V6 and I-4 powerplants. The diesels are expected to eventually make their way to Canada.
Although not as fuel-thrifty as the diesels, the mill powering the Canuck GLK is a tremendously competent one. It serves-up plenty of gusto early in its power band, and launches the GLK with commendable vigor. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100-km/h time of just 6.7 seconds. Passing performance on the highway, or in this case the autobahn, is also impressive. In addition to moving the GLK with persuasive authority, this powerplant delivers outstanding operational refinement.
The GLK rides upon a heavily modified C-Class platform, and that's not a bad place to start. The C-Class has been winning accolades for its handling and stability. To address off-road needs, suspension travel has been lengthened while spring rates and roll-bar stiffness was revised to deal effectively with the taller body of the GLK.
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| The GLK rides upon a heavily modified C-Class platform, and that's not a bad place to start. |
During our on-road testing, the reengineered suspension performed marvelously. Regular to-and-fro driving was made pleasurable by the suppleness evident in the calibration. When tossed hard into a corner, the fully independent arrangement firms itself to eliminate body roll while securely holding the GLK in the chosen line.
Off road sojourns benefit from the longer built-in travel. It's important to note that the GLK is not a vehicle with outstanding ground clearance, nor was it intended to be. Minimum ground clearance is pegged at 201-mm. To compensate for potential ground clearance deficits, extremely robust GMtex (manufacturer's name) paneling guards the underbelly of the GLK when the off-road package is selected.
This product is lighter than metal and stronger. It's designed to withstand the entire weight of the vehicle when a protrusion contacts the chassis. All vital parts are protected while the panel enables the vehicle to slide over an object without inflicting harm.
Multiple power sources in-use but only one available in Canada
The Canadian GLK will be initially restricted to a single powerplant, that being a 3.5-litre DOHC V6 capable of producing 272 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 258 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,400 rpm. European versions will offer a smaller V6 engine along with diesel V6 and I-4 powerplants. The diesels are expected to eventually make their way to Canada.
Although not as fuel-thrifty as the diesels, the mill powering the Canuck GLK is a tremendously competent one. It serves-up plenty of gusto early in its power band, and launches the GLK with commendable vigor. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100-km/h time of just 6.7 seconds. Passing performance on the highway, or in this case the autobahn, is also impressive. In addition to moving the GLK with persuasive authority, this powerplant delivers outstanding operational refinement.
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| The Canadian GLK will have an engine of 3.5-litre DOHC V6 capable of producing 272 horsepower. |