This is the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLK that will be sold as a 2013 model in the States and as a 2012 model in the rest of the world. The public will have the chance to see the updated GLK for the first time at next month’s New York International Auto Show.
The short story on Mercedes’ rival to the BMW X3 and the Audi Q5 is that it receives a styling makeover inside and out while it also gains a revised V6 petrol and the option of a diesel engine for the North American market.
In more detail, the German automaker has discarded the different types of bumpers with specific on-road and off-road packages. Instead, the boxy-looking GLK get the same re-sculptured front and rear bumpers on all models plus revised headlights and tail lamps, a reworked front grille, new LED daytime driving lights in a chrome clasp as standard on all models, and a fresh assortment of 17-, 19- and 20-inch wheels.
Also making its appearance on the latest model is a new, optional AMG Exterior Sports package that adds front and rear aprons, a different radiator grille with two chrome slats, AMG LED daytime driving lights, 19-inch wheels and a sportier suspension setup.
Mercedes-Benz’s designers have made some subtle changes to the GLK’s interior, namely the new round air vents, trim and upholstery colors, steering wheel designs, instrument panel graphics and the availability of new sports seats and upgraded infotainment systems.
In addition, models equipped with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission are fitted with Merc’s steering wheel column mounted DIRECT SELECT lever, which the company says frees up space on the lower part of the center console.
A variety of safety assistance systems make their appearance on the GLK such as ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist.
Under the hood and starting with the European model, the GLK will be offered with five engines. These include four diesels, a 2.2-liter four-pot with 141hp (143PS) in the GLK 200 CDI, 168hp (170PS) in the GLK 220 CDI and 201hp (204PS) in the GLK 250 BlueTEC, plus the 262hp (265PS) 3.0-liter V6 in the GLK 350 CDI.
The only available petrol model is the GLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 delivering 302hp (306PS).
In the United States, aside from the more potent GLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with 302hp (up from 268hp) that goes on sale this summer, Mercedes will also offer the GLK250 BlueTEC powered by a 2.2.-liter turbo diesel with 190hp and 369 lb-ft of torque from early 2013. Pricing and fuel economy numbers have not yet been announced for the N.A. models.
PHOTO GALLERY
