The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class, a compact luxury SUV, was designed to deliver both comfort and capability. Understanding the standard equipment included in the GLK models is crucial for anyone considering purchasing or learning more about this vehicle. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the standard features available in the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class, specifically focusing on the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and GLK350 models.
Comfort and Convenience in the GLK Class
The GLK Class prioritizes occupant comfort and convenience with a range of standard features designed to enhance the driving experience. Both the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and GLK350 models come equipped with an AM/FM radio with weather band and a user-friendly central controller featuring a 5″ color display. Bluetooth interface ensures hands-free calling, while cruise control maintains desired speeds on long journeys.
Automatic headlamps with twilight sensors and locator lighting add convenience and safety by automatically adjusting to changing light conditions. Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control allows personalized temperature settings for driver and passenger. Premium touches include MB-Tex upholstery with burl walnut wood trim, power windows with express up and down, and a premium leather multifunction steering wheel with a 4.5″ color instrument cluster display.
Practicality is also key, with features like front and rear cupholders, intermittent wipers, and a rear window intermittent wiper and washer. Privacy glass enhances passenger comfort and security, while roof rails add versatility for cargo carrying. For in-car entertainment, a single CD player with MP3 capability and a 6-speaker sound system with auxiliary input are standard. The driver benefits from a 10-way power driver seat with 3-position memory and 4-way power lumbar support, alongside a power steering column integrated with the driver-seat memory system. Passengers are also well catered for with 8-way adjustable front seats. The flat-folding 2nd-row seat expands cargo space to an impressive 54.7 cubic feet, making the GLK Class practical for various needs.
Performance and Handling Characteristics of the GLK
The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class offers a blend of performance and refined handling. The GLK350 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 naturally aspirated engine, delivering 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 3,500 and 5,250 rpm. In contrast, the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC features a 2.1L inline four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a robust 369 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 1,800 rpm. The GLK350 achieves a higher maximum engine speed of 6,800 rpm compared to the GLK250’s 4,900 rpm, but both models share a top speed of 130 mph.
Both models utilize a 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic Transmission with Touch Shift and Eco and Sport Shift Programs, allowing drivers to tailor the driving dynamics to their preference. The AGILITY CONTROL suspension system and independent front/rear suspension contribute to a comfortable yet controlled ride. Standard 19″ triple 5-spoke wheels fitted with 235/50 R19 all-season tires provide confident grip and handling. The GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC comes standard with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, while it’s an available option on the GLK350, ensuring enhanced stability and traction in various driving conditions. Notably, the GLK350 includes ECO Start/Stop for increased fuel efficiency, a feature not available on the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC.
Safety and Security Features in Every GLK Class
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the GLK Class is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features. Both models feature Adaptive Brakes with Brake Drying, Hill Start Assist, and Pre-charging, along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist System (BAS). Electronic Stability Program (4-ESP) with Trailer Stability Assist and Electronic Traction System (ETS) further enhance vehicle control and stability.
For visibility, integrated front fog lamps and a rear fog lamp are standard, along with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. In the event of a collision, NECK-PRO active front head restraints are designed to minimize whiplash injuries. A robust steel body cage with crumple zones and a safety cell provides structural protection. Occupant protection is further enhanced by 9 airbags, including dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, a driver kneebag, driver/passenger pelvic airbags, and window curtain airbags for both front and rear occupants.
Security features include an anti-theft alarm system with an engine immobilizer and SmartKey with a panic button remote. Peace of mind is further provided by a tire pressure monitoring system and rear door child safety locks. For families, top tether anchors and the Universal LATCH system are included for secure child seat installation in the 2nd-row outboard seats. Finally, all GLK models are supported by a 24-hour roadside assistance program and a new vehicle 4 year/50,000 mile warranty.
Aesthetic Customization: Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Options
While focusing on standard equipment, it’s worth noting the range of standard aesthetic options available for the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class, allowing for personalization without opting for upgrades.
Paint Options: A variety of paint choices are available for both GLK models, including standard Black, Polar White, and Mars Red, as well as metallic finishes such as Obsidian Black, Dolomite Brown, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Lunar Blue, Pebble Grey, and Diamond Silver.
Upholstery Options: Standard upholstery choices include Black MB-Tex, Sahara Beige/Mocha MB-Tex, and Grey/Black MB-Tex. Leather upholstery options in Black, Sahara Beige/Mocha, and Mocha/Black are available as part of the Leather Package.
Trim Options: Interior trim can be customized with Burl Walnut Wood, Black Ash Wood, or Aluminum trim (the latter available with specific MB-Tex upholstery choices).
Optional Packages to Enhance Your GLK
Beyond the extensive standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz offered several optional packages to further customize and enhance the GLK Class. These packages bundled popular features, offering added value and convenience.
Premium 1 Package: This popular package included a 115V AC power outlet in the cargo area, iPod/MP3 Media Interface cable, Garage Door Opener, Digital Compass Display, Auto-dimming Driver-Side and Rearview Mirror, Power Tilt/Sliding Panorama Sunroof, Media Interface, SIRIUS XM with 6 months of service, and a Power Liftgate.
Interior Ambient Lighting Package: This package enhanced the cabin ambiance with interior ambient lighting.
Leather Package: Requiring the Premium 1 Package, the Leather Package upgraded the upholstery to leather and added passenger memory seat and comfort headrests.
Lighting Package: This package improved nighttime visibility with Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.
Multimedia Package: Also requiring the Premium 1 Package, the Multimedia Package added a Rearview Camera (upgradable to Surround View Camera) and the COMAND System with Hard-Drive Navigation.
Sport Package: For a more dynamic appearance, the Sport Package included AMG styling elements, aluminum roof rails, sport bodystyling, and specific AMG wheel options (20” AMG himalaya grey double spoke wheel for GLK350, 19″ AMG 5-spoke wheel for GLK250).
Appearance Package: Similar to the Sport Package in enhancing aesthetics, the Appearance Package featured 20” 5-spoke Wheels for the GLK350 and 19″ 5-spoke himalaya grey wheels for the GLK250, along with aluminum roof rails.
Lane Tracking Package: Focused on driver assistance, this package included Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.
Conclusion: The Well-Equipped Mercedes-Benz GLK Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class, in both GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and GLK350 forms, offered a generous level of standard equipment encompassing comfort, convenience, performance, safety, and aesthetic choices. From its well-appointed interior to its capable performance and comprehensive safety features, the GLK Class was designed to provide a premium SUV experience. The availability of numerous optional packages further allowed buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences, making the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class a compelling choice in the luxury compact SUV segment.
