The compact crossover market segment will be really disputed in the next period, most manufacturers preparing one player for this class. What is the GLK? If you analyze the acronym GLK with the German-English dictionary, you will find that letter K stands for “kurz” which means “short”. So the model will be a “miniature” of seven seats Mercedes model and inherits many features of bigger brother, including the quadrate profile.
With 4.52 meters, GLK is shorter than the BMW X3 and the Audi Q5, but longer than the Volkswagen Tiguan. If we compare strictly the german quartet we’ll have to wait until we see them all on the roads, but in manufacturers class Mercedes is in top, having the most diverse group in the crossover premium group.
The GLK was seen in videos, so mystery surrounding the release of the series has pretty much dissapeared. The commercial version does not differ much from the concept that was presented at the Auto Show in Detroit.
Mercedes says that GLK is one of the best SUVs on the road. All versions are equipped with 4MATIC full traction and the power distribution ratio is 45:55. The secret skills outside the road lie in the specific program activated by the “G” button placed on the central console. With a single click of a button accelerations becomes more soft and enable off-road ESP, which improves the control.
The top of the line is the GLK350 which comes with a 272 hp 3.5 liter V6 and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (60 mph) in only 6.2 seconds. Europeans will also get the 170 hp 220 CDI diesel, the 320CDI BlueEfficency and the 231 hp 2.8 liter V6.
The GLK comes with chrome-plated elements, 20” alloy wheels, a navigation system that saves the route travelled so the driver can easily find the track back. The model also provides a revolutionary intelligently tri-zonal air-conditioning system. The well-known luxury interior will not be missed, having noble materials such as Sienna Pine wood, leather and chrome, all depending on the level of facilities. It also will not be deprived of panoramic roof, Sirius audio system and the display from central console.
Prices for the German market, without VAT, are:
• GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: € 33,900
• GLK 320 CDI 4MATIC: € 38,700
• GLK 280 4MATIC: € 36,600
• GLK 350 4MATIC: € 38,700
More photos after the jump.
Photo Gallery: The Mercedes Benz GLK
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