The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Good news for those looking for a compact crossover with a three-pointed star on the hood: Mercedes-Benz has an all-new GLK Class coming to dealers, and they’re rolling it out at next month’s New York Auto Show. As is usually the case these days, Mercedes has released images of the new GLK in advance of the show, and we’ll admit that it’s much better looking than the version it replaces. Styling isn’t radically different from the current version, but rounding the GLK’s somewhat harsh lines really cleans up the exterior. While the current GLK looks awkward, the new GLK manages to pull off elegant.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. Image: Mercedes-Benz
The inside is all new, and notable changes include moving the gear lever from the center console to the steering column. This improves ergonomics, but also frees up center console space for things like cup holders, which are essentially unneeded in any market outside of the United States. Mercedes calls the GLK’s interior “even more premium” than before, and says that material choice is comparable to a higher class of vehicle. We hope so, since even mainstream manufacturers have stepped up their interior quality in recent years.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. Image: Mercedes-Benz
The real news is with the GLK’s powertrain options, since Mercedes is adding a 2.1-liter BlueTEC diesel to the GLK range this year. Horsepower from the diesel is a modest 190 hp, but torque is rated at an impressive 369 pound-feet. Opt for the diesel engine, and you’ll also get Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system for sure-footed traction.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. Image: Mercedes-Benz
The 3.5-liter V-6 returns for the 2013 GLK, but gets a bump to 302 hp (from 268 hp) and 273 pound-feet of torque (from 258 lb-ft). This engine can be had with either rear-wheel drive or the aforementioned 4Matic all-wheel-drive.
Look for the new GLK to hit Mercedes dealers this summer.
