The GLK model appeared relatively recently - in 2008. Since then, it has become one of the brightest cars in the Mercedes-Benz family. Initially, it was a rather bold variation on the theme of the classic Geländewagen, but over time, its rough chopped body lines changed to more rounded ones ... AvtoMania studied the premium SUV, which, during the upgrade, approached the asphalt by 20 millimeters.
Mercedes says the makeover GLK, unlike the unchanged Gelika, is dictated by the fact that the first GLK divided buyers into supporters and opponents of the model - some admired the rough design, others expressed their indignation. Therefore, when developing an updated crossover, the engineers from Stuttgart tried to create a universal option that would unite both sides. Now the squares are rounded, the old off-road version of the front bumper is gone, and the intricate shape of the LED optics and grille added sophistication to the GLK.
In the interior, the note of "cubism" also disappeared. You look - and you will not find a single sharp edge! Even the ventilation system deflectors were changed to round ones, like on the SLK and SL roadsters. At first glance, it may seem that not a single old detail is left in the cabin at all: the “automatic” selector under the steering wheel has made room for additional cup holders on the central tunnel and the joystick of the COMAND multimedia complex. There was an updated stylish steering wheel, a dashboard with a color screen in the center of the speedometer, a large LCD navigation system, and another audio system unit.
There are also changes in the on-board electronics. Now the crossover can be equipped with adaptive cruise control, automatic parking and all-round visibility, as well as blind spot monitoring and lane control.
Despite the "platform" of the C-Class, there is enough space in the front seats. With a height of 180 cm, the back can also be easily seated, while your legs feel comfortable. By the way, the trunk volume here is modest - equal to 450 liters. The same Q5 has 540 liters, while the X3 (F25) has another 10 liters more.
During the off-road test, 4 cars were brought to us, but with one modification: a 2.2-liter diesel engine with a 4Matic all-wheel drive system. As the organizers later said, this is the most popular version on the Ukrainian market. In conditions of mud, light snow and not very deep puddles, the junior diesel engine lives up to its expectations. Although the diesel V6 with a capacity of 265 forces and 620 Nm of torque will be much more interesting.
After restyling, the GLK became more comfortable, and the smoothness of the ride improved. Suspension in a Mercedes elastic, works flawlessly. The power steering has become electromechanical. Such a system, according to the manufacturer, in the event of a slip start, tells the driver where to turn the steering wheel, and will be able to autonomously correct the trajectory of the wheels on unstable surfaces, using micro-turns of the wheels. And it [the system] helps to save fuel.
The situation with the ground clearance of the updated GLK turned out to be ambiguous. In 2009, this car was boldly called one of the most “off-road” crossovers in the premium segment. But now the base clearance has decreased by 20 millimeters to 177 millimeters. Isn't it enough? Not enough - I drive up the hill, turn the steering wheel almost to the stop and hear on the radio from the Mercedes-Benz instructor Igor Siroshtan: “ The ground clearance here is decent. The car handles our track...”, - at the same moment I cling to the bottom of the road. Raising the topic of clearance, Mercedes talks about improving handling and reducing fuel consumption, but in reality, GLK owners simply prefer to “travel” on an asphalt road.
The situation is helped a little by the Offroad Engineering package, which now includes an increased ground clearance of 30 millimeters. With the off-road package, the 2013 GLK gets additional underbody protection with reinforced plastic, and variable speed hill-descent assistance. You also get an "off-road" algorithm for the operation of the gearbox and electronic gas pedal. In addition, now the electronics block the differential and wheels earlier and more sharply when diagonally hanging.
Ukrainian sales of the updated GLK have already started. For the basic version of the GLK 220 CDI, they will ask from UAH 448,840 (approximately 40,000 euros). The top version 350 4MATIC is offered from UAH 634,603. At the same time, the starting prices for the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are similar, and for the Lexus RX - a little higher.
In our ultra-pragmatic time, when the search for good from good is strictly verboten, this cannot be. But it is! The team of Gordon Wagener, vice president of design at Daimler AG, tailored the appearance of the GLC (code designation X253) to very different patterns than the GLK, which, with more than 650,000 units sold since 2008, has become the most popular Mercedes-Benz SUV.
There are really good reasons for such a radical change. Marketers, those gray cardinals of the car companies, prefer to dissolve individuality into product lines. It's easier, it's cheaper to design, it's clearer for the buyer, step by step moving from the "starter" segments to the top ones.
And in terms of style, the GLC is no longer a soloist, like GLK, but part of a modern Mercedes orchestra. This will disappoint some, but most, I think, will easily accept such a change, because the Swabian design symphony today sounds like never before. The new E-Class / CLS will not break out of the general tone either.
In terms of style
GLC is no longer a soloist, like GLK, but part of a modern Mercedes-Benz orchestra
Stop! And what about these sedans, the first of which will officially debut only in January 2016 at the Detroit Motor Show? And besides. The X253 is based on a new, "hybrid" version of the MRA platform: the rear is from, and the front, including the power structure of the body and suspension, is from a new generation of Swabian business cars. The outer panels of the front end of the GLC, of course, are their own, and yet, without exhausting the imagination too much, one can already imagine the "face" of the E-Class new.
But with the interior, such a trick will not work. The letter "C" in the name of the new Swabian off-road vehicle is a kind of indulgence for borrowing an elegant dashboard from the W205. In a word, in the interior, too, nothing resembles the GLK, which played the security officer card. Goodbye chopped forms and wide thresholds! For GLC buyers, a significant part of which - especially in Russia - will be women, something else is more important: the "Mercedes" quality of finish and increased (and not symbolically, but by tens of millimeters) in all directions the living space of the cabin.
The cargo compartment also "something" fell from stretching the length / width of the model by 120/50 mm. True, the additional (+100/50 l) volume of the luggage compartment was also obtained by "subtracting" the spare wheel even from the list of options. If you want, rely on a repair kit with sealant. If you want, order run-flat anti-puncture tires. The weight savings and the cost-effectiveness associated with it are above all! And if so, then the third row of seats, available for, does not appear in the lists of additional equipment, especially since the chosen platform does not seem to imply such a configuration. And here's another British hairpin in the "Schwab" interior: only in the top configuration of the HSE, the massage function is also available for the front seats.
But there are Mercedes - who would doubt it! - how to answer. Active safety is the direction where the GLC will give odds to any rival, unlike its ancestor, the GLK, which, when it entered the market seven years ago, was somewhat inferior to, say, its peer, the Audi Q5. The “three-beam” mid-size SUV has a lot of systems in its arsenal, “lit up” on the latest high-end Mercedes-Benz models, which are rushing at full speed towards the target, the “unmanned” car.
On the road GLC
maybe exactly what you expect from a modern Mercedes sedan
True, for the most high-tech devices you will have to pay a fair amount. But does anyone else do it? And did anyone manage to teach "active" cruise control when changing lanes to immediately capture in the field of view of cameras and radars a car walking nearby and slightly ahead? So the mass of electronic assistants is not yet ready to completely replace the driver, and I, I confess, did not tune in to replace the EuroNCAP experts in conducting full-scale crash tests, especially since there are many other interesting facets in the character of the GLC ...
Potential difference
Colleagues, who snapped up all the petrol GLC 250s at the start from Basel Airport, forced them to switch their attention to the "solar-eating" versions of the Swabian SUV. Another light-fuel engine, a new, 245-horsepower version of the 2.0-liter turbo-four, which, in addition to our market, will be available in the US and several European countries, has just been announced. On paper, the GLC 300 with this engine looks like a worthy replacement for the GLK 350 with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 delivering all of its 306 hp rather than the 249 hp subject to Russian tax law.
Parity in terms of maximum torque (370 Nm), and even developed from almost three times lower speeds, in combination with shorter gears of AKP9, which replaced AKP7 on all versions with a classic power plant, equalize the acceleration time from a standstill up to "hundreds" (6.5 s). "Maximum speed" and that is only symbolically lower (235 vs 238 km / h), but the declared average consumption of gasoline is reduced by a liter. But the price has also been cut by 60,000 rubles. (from 2,830,000 rubles) for a car in the extended vs. basic configuration "Special Series"! The closely equipped BMW X3 xDrive28i, not to mention the British duo in the Si4 version, will prove to be neither cheaper nor faster.
But this is a theory, and practice will show in Russia in the fall what kind of fruit this GLC 300 is.
Now there was an opportunity to estimate what the GLC 250 d is capable of (from 2,850,000 rubles). In Europe, a GLK with such a 204-horsepower 2.1-liter turbodiesel was available, but not with us.
Did the Russians lose a lot then and are gaining now? How to say. "Urban" drivers who are wary of security cameras, the GLC 250 d will be just right. Acceleration from standstill to 60-75 km / h - fire! But try to sharply accelerate from this mark on the track and you will realize that the fireworks have already gone out, and even the transfer of the power unit to the "Sport +" mode will not ignite it again. It takes two to do this, like tango, and the impressive 500 Nm of thrust breaks at the peak too early (1800 rpm) for the power to reliably support it. The engines of the GLC 220 d (170 hp) and GLC 250 (211 hp) versions known to Russians by GLK do not experience such problems. And even though the first of them in the spurt from zero to "hundred" (8.3 s) is inferior to 0.7 from the GLC 250 d, it still makes one believe that the GLC is 80 kg lighter than the GLK.
But on my personal preference sheet, the GLC 250 is the undisputed leader of the trio. He is faster than the rest (0-100 km / h in 7.3 s), and 30,000 rubles. cheaper than the GLC 220 d in equal trim levels "Special Series", and in the base one, which only he got in Russia, - by 230,000 rubles! True, if you do not consider the word "drive" abusive, you will have to forget about saving the cost of gasoline: the engine is deprived of a tangible margin of return.
Another newcomer to the line, the "socket hybrid" GLC 350 e, which should reach us by the beginning of 2016, is called upon to amaze the imagination with a more than moderate appetite. It is unclear whether the price list for the model is still being held even in Germany.
But this version has the highest digital index for a reason. In the classic 0-100 km/h sprint, the GLC 350 e with its 211 hp internal combustion engine and 85 kW electric drive motor drives the GLC 300 by as much as 0.6 s! For maximum speed - parity. Profitability? On the 13-kilometer route, laid mainly through towns with a speed limit of 30/50 km / h, our crew burned only 1.7 liters of gasoline per 100 km, because we drove 9 km on electric traction. On the highway, the consumption, of course, would have jumped. How much? Let's check in Russia.
In the meantime, one practical observation: unlike its younger brother with the same electrical part, it does not "slow down" with the connection of the internal combustion engine when trying to accelerate sharply. Norbert Ruzicka, who is responsible for the development of the "hybrid" power plant, claims that the control software has nothing to do with it, but it's all about the different injection settings of the V6 GLE and the turbo "four" GLC. I vote for the second option!
However, those aiming for 300 e should take into account the inevitability of self-restraints. Firstly, a 120-kilogram lithium-iron-phosphate battery packed as neatly as possible still "ate" 200 liters of the nominal volume of the cargo compartment, and secondly, the "hybrid" cannot be equipped with a unique Air Body Control suspension with multi-chamber pneumatic elements and "active" shock absorbers.
To say whether the second loss worth 157,880 rubles is large. I can’t take it: there wasn’t a single one in the test park for comparison " non-hybrid " GLC with base or sport (harder + 20mm lower) spring suspension. And not a single one with a "shoe" size smaller than the maximum, foppish 255/45 R20 (the "starting" standard in Russia is 235/65 R17). So let's see if Air Body Control is so good. And it's good as hell! The "Sport+" mode on European-quality roads can be made permanent.
Yes, the joints and small potholes are a little more noticeable, but the complete composure of the suspension and the absence of even a hint of body buildup, sometimes noticeable in the "Comfort" mode. In any case, the difference in the chassis settings is not contrasting, and the intermediate "Sport" mode could be "out of state" altogether, or even better, exchanged - alas, impossible - for enhanced soundproofing of the wheel arches: on coarse-grained asphalt, it previously seemed solid the line of acoustic defense of all versions is torn.
Here, the information content of the steering with an electromechanical amplifier that replaced the electro-hydraulic system does not depend on the type of coating, and it is always on top, and even the Comfort booster mode is preferable.
For those who hold this opinion, the "Individual" mode is provided, which allows you to combine various settings for the power unit, suspension, steering. Well, the “greens” will be reconciled with the new Mercedes-Benz by the “Eco” mode, in which even the climate control works half-heartedly. In general, the GLC, both on freeways and on serpentines, confirmed the words of Dr. Thomas Weber, responsible for the technical policy of the brand, uttered a month before the test at the model presentation ceremony: "On the road, our SUV can do exactly what you expect from a modern Mercedes sedan."
Off the road, the GLC is capable of more
than most cars of this class
There is a feeling that the already available versions of the GLC have not yet said the last word in terms of dynamics, including braking, and handling? The gap will be chosen by the GLC 450 AMG, which has no analogue in the GLK-line, with a 367-horsepower 3.0-liter biturbo-V6 familiar from the "literal" C-Class and GLE Coupe and more driver's (30:70 vs 45:55%) thrust distribution between axles. And Dr. Dieter Zetsche, the head of the Daimler concern, at the same premiere show of the model, transparently hinted at the possibility of the appearance of the GLC Coupe, the anti-BMW X4. But let's not rush, especially since Dr. Thomas Weber threw another bait, saying: "Off-road, the GLC is capable of more than you expect from a car of this class." Let's check?
Transfiguration
In Stuttgart, they look around and see that SUVs almost reign supreme in the mid-size SUV segment, and limited opportunities outside the asphalt are not a hindrance to them. Well, the GLC could be that too. For the sake of improving aerodynamics and reducing fuel consumption, the clearance of the “Swab” with a standard spring suspension is preloaded (except for the “hybrid” version) vs GLK by 20 mm. 181 mm is still quite enough to conquer curbs, and permanent all-wheel drive is permanent all-wheel drive in Africa. But Mercedes-Benz would not be itself if, having included the letter "G" in the model name, it refused to work on the few hit on the head by offroad and work in good faith.
Yes, sworn friends from BMW after the change of generations of the model ceased to indicate for their X3 the values of geometric cross-country ability other than clearance (204 mm). So what! Then there's the island duo, the Land Rover Discovery Sport & Range Rover Evoque, who are successfully monetizing their mud-kneading abilities. Leave the British monopolists? Never! And the GLC could be radically transformed. True, not for free. RUB 281,646 - how much will the transformation of the "parquet" version into an off-road one cost. To do this, in addition to the air suspension, you will have to get the technological (49,031 rubles) and stylistic (74,735 rubles) "Off-road" packages.
And don't even think about skimping on the latter, because part of it is a special front bumper, with which the GLC immediately puts both "Britons" on the shoulder blades in a competition for the steepness of the angle of entry (30.8 vs 25 °). Land Rover models compete in two other disciplines, departure angle (31/33 vs 24.8°) and ramp angle (20/22 vs 19.7°). But the "Schwab" with its adjustable air suspension meets the maximum ground clearance of 227 mm vs 212/215 mm for the "cousins" from the shores of Foggy Albion. However, the ground clearance of the GLC is almost “dry”: due to the location of the differential breathers, the depth of the ford to be overcome, like that of the GLK, remained modest, 300 mm, while the “British” (600/500 mm) are knee-deep, if not the sea, then quite a Russian-format puddle.
But in the technopackage "Off-road" GLC, unlike the GLK, there is also an adequate response to the proprietary "Land Rover" Terrain Response system for adjusting the power unit and chassis to the type of coverage. This thing definitely came in handy for me on an unusual off-road track. When, at almost 70% of the rise (≈30°), the GLC, "shod" in standard road tires, stalled on non-cut gravel, I had to reverse to change the trajectory. Not the easiest maneuver on such a slope, but the DSR automatic braking system, which is activated automatically in the Incline mode, worked perfectly, reducing the braking force that threatens to lock on the steered wheels and increasing it on the rear axle.
And on steep descents, which only the camera of the all-round view complex could see from the crest of the hill, DSR made it possible to pre-set the speed of "decrease" even at 1 km / h (the "British" have a minimum threshold value of 5 km / h). The GLC did not let us down on the section of the track, where it had to swing on the “stormy” ground waves. The choice of the "Rocking Assist" mode increased the ground clearance to the limit and made the electronic cross-axle differential locks work ultra-efficiently. This is where the strong GLK genes are felt! Who cares, but I like such a versatility of the nature of the novelty from Mercedes-Benz ...
Going to test a car like a Mercedes, it's ridiculous to question its build quality or "coolness". But I really want to understand what are its actual automotive, that is, not fashion, advantages. But I'll start with the image. More specifically, looks.
There are four SUVs in the Mercedes lineup. G-Klass - aka Gelendevagen, large GL, medium M-Klass and the smallest - GLK. The names of the three cars begin with the letter G - they really are representatives of the same family, and it is between them that family ties can be traced.
This, in my opinion, is not at all a plus for the GLK. With "Gelendevagen" it is clear - it is good for its brute power. He has strict lines and a strict character. But in a smaller car, such elements are not so impressive.
I know, or rather, I even see that the lines of the body were slightly painted on, new headlights were put in, elevating LEDs to the rank of a fetish, rear lights were given the same LEDs, and a new rear bumper was installed. But these strokes do not hide chopped forms.
So among the cars of its class, the GLK looks the most brutal. Both outside and inside: the updated interior of the model will catch the eye of sharp decisions. What saves him from the status of "female" popular in the class of compact SUVs and crossovers.
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Is it possible to take gasoline or is it worth waiting for diesel
Go ahead. ... I traveled on a diesel engine, and drove on gasoline. On wide autobahns, it is more pleasant to drive on a gasoline GLK. But - only if the speed is under 130 and above. True, in Russia this speed is a guaranteed violation of the rules, but, Lord, what are we really talking about ...
So, accelerating the GLK from low speeds to those that meet the expectations from the car is a simple task. Press the gas all the way - and here you are 6.5 seconds to 100 km / h! True, each of the 306 horses of the 3.5-liter engine takes some of this time for thought. That is, he pressed the gas ... pause ... roared ... let's go! This is where it explodes!!!
Yes, Mercedes is great at speed. He is a tall and, in theory, a very rolly car - dives into turns almost like a squat sedan. (Here it is appropriate to recall that the GLK is built on the platform of the all-wheel drive C-class). If anything irritates during forced rebuilds, it is the light strokes of the steering wheel that announce these rebuilds. On a winding road, when the optimal trajectory does not coincide with your lane at all, tapping on the steering wheel (this is the optional Steer Control system) is simply tiring.
So, the top petrol GLK is fast. But here's the thing. The diesel version I tested was faster than the most powerful petrol version. Let it be for 0.1 seconds (6.4 vs. 6.5), but! Behind one tenth hides a much more even acceleration and a very fast reaction of the car to the gas pedal. If you want to speed up - please! From thirty, fifty, ninety kilometers per hour - no question. At the same moment. Yes, after the 130 mark, the engine seems to give off its breath, but, you see, 99% of you will not go faster in 99% of cases.
The logical question is what kind of diesel is it? I answer: "It doesn't matter yet"! What's wrong? And just until next year we will not have diesel GLKs in Russia. None. Then the engines of the BlueEFFICIENCY line may appear ... In the meantime, it remains with a degree of sadness to envy the Germans, they have much more engines.
Is it true to call the Mercedes GLK an SUV?
On the previous test drive of the Mercedes-Benz GLK a few years ago, it seems that we did not leave the track, limiting ourselves to crossing difficult tram tracks. This time, Mercedes himself offered to test the GLK on a special track.
Which was specially prepared: a terribly uneven dirt path in the Alps (French) was flooded with water, various obstacles were placed on it, ups and downs were left in place ... What am I telling you, look at the photo better.
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I agree, there is nothing to surprise the Russians here, but what is valuable here is that this track was created specifically for the GLK, that is, it is designed to show "its limit". That is, this Mercedes must overcome such a road without loss. And he overcame! Completely effortless and woeful sighs of instructors due to the contact of thresholds and the bottom with the ground.
On this primer, the Mercedes was helped by the Offroad package. He:
- increases ground clearance by 30 mm - up to 231 mm.
- offers a descent assistance system that helps to move down the hills: the driver only has to choose the optimal speed from 4 to 18 km / h.
- activates a special setting of ABS and ESP, which allows a slight slip, which ultimately provides better traction.
Whether this package is needed depends on where the GLK will be used. If you regularly travel out of town, and even more so if you drive off the road, take it. First of all, because of the increased ground clearance, since the descent assistance system is not so necessary: the driver's flair and the right right foot have already done their job. And up to very steep mountains, the descent from which is better to entrust the technique, the owner of the GLK is unlikely to get.
So, the GLK’s cross-country ability is average, but it will do honor to any car that is commonly called a crossover. On the track for now - at least during the year - you will have to be content with a powerful, but gasoline engine that loves dynamics.
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What else is worth considering when trying on the GLK for yourself? It is really small, I would say cramped. With my small height (172 cm), I sat down behind myself normally (there was enough space above my head in the GLK), but if I were 5 centimeters higher, the knees of the person sitting behind would have buried themselves in the front seat. And my 6-year-old daughter, sitting in a child seat, would probably get her feet up to the front back.
Mercedes-Benz GLK: prestige accessory or quality standard
The GLK salon is rich and, I would say, beautiful, but specific: powerful deflectors, an abundance of chrome, non-trivial instrument dials are not my aesthetics, but I'm sure many will like it. The seats are very comfortable, the electric front settings guarantee a wide range of adjustments - you can ride in comfort.
The review is normal, although the A-pillars (as, by the way, in other models of the G family) eat up part of the panorama. There are enough niches for storing something, in one of them on the central tunnel we managed to lose the camera, it just “rolled” under the cover.
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According to sellers, the GLK is an ideal candidate for the status of the “entrance” car to the world of Mercedes. For the Russian buyer, of course. Four-wheel drive, low - relative to other models - price, compactness.
And besides, it’s not for nothing that the Mercedes-Benz GLK begins with the same letter as Gelandewagen and GL and, as noted at the beginning, this is a much more “male” car than the M-class. Despite the size.
And of course, a powerful argument for the GLK is located between the headlights Owning a Mercedes is a status at all times. And here - pay from 1,890,000 rubles and welcome to the club.
Yes, almost 2 million rubles for a membership card is a lot. But it seems that Mercedes is consciously raising the bar for minimum contributions. When you buy the GLK, you get no limits... and a star keychain.
Brief characteristics of the Mercedes-Benz GLK350 and top modifications of competitors
Mercedes-Benz GLK prices
Updated Mercedes GLK will appear in Russia in July-August 2012. Initially, only two versions of the GLK300 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 350 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY will be sold. In the “Special Series” configuration, the first costs from 1,890,000 rubles, the second - from 2,390,000 rubles.
Cars of the "Special Series" already have a parking system, a smoker's package, a windshield wiper with a rain sensor, crankcase protection, a navigation system, THERMOTRONIC climate control, bi-xenon headlights, heated front seats, a rear door that closes with a button, an anti-theft package ...
The Offroad package costing 40,705 rubles comes at an additional cost for both versions.
Diesel cars will appear at Russian dealers no earlier than 2013. Moreover, in any case, new environmentally friendly BlueTEC motors will not be delivered to Russia - only the already known BlueEFFICIENCY.
Additional options Mercedes-Benz GLK
Panoramic sliding roof. Unlike tilt/slide sunroofs, it has about a third more opening area and about twice the transparent surface area. In addition, sun shades will cover from direct sunlight.
System of automatic three-zone climate control. There are no unimportant passengers in Mercedes-Benz: any of them has the right to demand their own weather in the car.
Entertainment system for passengers in the rear. The GLK can be fitted with a DVD player and two large 8-inch color LCD displays integrated into the front seat headrests. They come with two pairs of headphones, as well as two or three Aux-In connectors. An additional TV tuner will not let you miss your favorite TV show or the match of the national team at Euro 2012…
The car can rightly be considered one of the greatest inventions in the history of mankind. For a long time, from a simple means of transportation, it has turned into a luxurious attribute that confirms the status and is a vital necessity for any successful person.
Mercedes Benz GLK is attractive for girls 😉
The automotive industry boasts a large number of worthy representatives, and in this list, the cars of the German concern Mercedes-Benz occupy a leading position.
car exterior
This model organically combines angular forms and some brutality, attracting everyone's attention with an extraordinary balance of forms and excellent grace with a touch of sophistication. The car stands out among numerous crossover analogues, combining the style of the G- and M-class cars from Mercedes, which is undoubtedly its advantage, allowing you to feel your individuality.
Mercedes Benz Jae El Ka - predator on the road
As for practicality, everything here is at the highest level. The headlight optics are successfully hidden by a high line that protects it from stones and dirt. A high level of cross-country ability became possible thanks to short overhangs, albeit with a slight clearance, and wide wheel arches reliably protect the car body from road dirt.
Despite the fact that the new Mercedes Benz GLK has the appearance of a fairly compact car, this is a deceiving sight. Such a visual deception was made possible thanks to the unique design - reduced to the center of the lines of the wings, hood and roof. In addition, this version of the performance allowed to significantly improve the aerodynamic performance of the car, making it one of the best in its class in terms of these parameters. The true impression of the Mercedes-Benz GLK and its dimensions can only be made by approaching it at close range.
Interior of Mercedes-Benz GLK
Continuing the test drive of the Mercedes Benz GLK, let's move on to the salon. First impressions are more than positive - everything here is sound, high quality and natural. The design is dominated by a harmonious combination of leather, soft plastic and natural aluminum. The assembly does not cause the slightest criticism - everything is fitted very high quality, there are not even the slightest gaps, and all the efforts applied to the controls are verified with true German pedantry.
The driver's seat in a car of medium hardness, with excellent load distribution while driving and cornering, and the ability to manually adjust the lumbar support, backrest tilt and cushion height. Management is carried out by means of special buttons located on the side of the pillow. Near them is an ergonomic flywheel, the function of which is to adjust the tilt of the seat. One of the nice features available in this car and relevant in the winter is adjustable seat heating.
Interior of Mercedes-Benz GLK
If you look closely at the photo of the Mercedes-Benz GLK, you can see the dashboard, made in the characteristic style of the company, but with the classic arrangement of control components. This mainly applies to the unit responsible for outdoor lighting and located to the left of the steering column, the lever that controls the cruise control and the steering column lever.
The dashboard in this model consists of three large dials. The middle one contains data from the on-board computer and a speedometer, the left one displays information on the remaining fuel and indicators from engine temperature sensors, and the tachometer is located on the right.
The multimedia system is placed under a separate visor located in the central part of the panel, and its menu has a complete and very high-quality Russification. Below are the central air vents, the head unit of the audio system and the climate control unit, with a separate tuning system.
View from the passenger seat of a Mercedes Benz GLK
The steering column is height adjustable, allowing it to be adjusted to the needs of any driver. The steering wheel in the GLK model is three-spoke, additionally it has buttons for controlling the on-board computer, audio system and telephone. Everything that is required for comfortable and safe driving, because now there is no need to be distracted by switching the melody, changing any parameters in the car settings or making a phone call.
A convenient overview of the Mercedes-Benz GLK is provided by large exterior mirrors, for greater convenience there is also a parking sensor, front and rear.
The gearbox is a 7-speed, made according to the algorithm familiar to all Mercedes owners, additionally equipped with a sports mode and an “automatic” mode, in which control is carried out using the steering wheel paddles.
The perfection of the Mercedes Benz GLK lines
The rear seats provide a comfortable fit and comfortable position. Thanks to the panoramic roof, the already large interior space seems even larger. The rear of the car has its own air vents, center armrest, pockets in the doors and backs of the front seats. If desired, a child car seat can also be installed here.
The trunk is equipped with an electric drive and boasts a very impressive volume - about 450 liters. The upholstery is made of non-staining material, there are fastening hooks and a curtain that hides luggage from prying eyes.
If necessary, the rear seats can be folded, fully or in a ratio of 40:60, which allows you to increase the volume of the luggage compartment up to 1550 liters.
Behavior on the road
The technical characteristics of the Mercedes-Benz GLK declared by the manufacturer not only amaze the imagination, but also allow you to get excellent results. The car is available in two configurations - with a gasoline or diesel engine. Regardless of the type, the car boasts a soft and smooth ride and feels great on any surface, both in the city and beyond.
The suspension deserves special praise. It copes well with small bumps and is almost immune to rutting.
Thanks to the optimal combination of softness and rigidity, you can easily perform the most difficult maneuvers on the road, but at the same time, passengers in the Mercedes-Benz GLK feel comfortable regardless of the speed of movement.
After watching the Mercedes Benz Je El Ka test drive video, you can see that the car does an excellent job of driving not only on a flat road, but also shows a “top class” off-road.
Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV without compromise
Thanks to huge 17-inch wheels, all-wheel drive and an impressive mass of almost two tons, the car does not give in to snow porridge, dirt roads, mud and ditches. Going on a trip to the Mercedes-Benz GLK, you can be sure that the car will take you exactly to the final destination of your journey.
Separate words deserve an intelligent system of optional lighting Intelligent Light System, which has no analogues. It allows not only to "look around the corner", but also automatically increases the intensity of the light flux, when the speed reaches 90 km/h or more. If the vehicle speed exceeds 110 km/h, the system slightly raises the left headlight, thus increasing visibility by about 50 meters. Thanks to this, the driver gets more time to make a decision in a difficult situation.
Additional options
Harmonious appearance Mercedes-Benz GLK
Mercedes-Benz GLK gives its users a large number of additional options that significantly increase the comfort of the driver and passengers. So, for example, a sliding panoramic roof has a higher opening area - about a third, and special curtains will protect the driver and passengers from direct sunlight.
It is also worth noting the climate control system, which allows you to set individual parameters for the three zones. Here everyone has the right to count on comfortable conditions.
Passengers sitting in the back seat can take full advantage of the modern entertainment system. They have a DVD player and two 8-inch screens, two pairs of headphones and a TV tuner that allows you to watch your favorite TV shows without leaving your car.
Purchase cost
You will not get tired of admiring the Mercedes-Benz GLK
How much will it cost to buy a Mercedes-Benz GLK? The question is quite interesting, because the price of a Mercedes-Benz GLK depends on many factors - equipment, engine type, etc.
The most common sale option is the “special series” package, which includes the following list of equipment:
- 4MATIC - all-wheel drive;
- 7G-TRONIC - automatic transmission;
- BAS - emergency braking complex;
- Anti-lock and anti-slip systems;
- Intelligent airbags - front and side;
- External light control system and much more.
The pricing policy for this model varies in a fairly wide range. So, the GLK 220 CDI model, equipped with a diesel engine, will cost a potential buyer 1,700,000 rubles, the GLK 300 will be yours for 1,950,000 rubles, the Mercedes GLK 350, with a powerful gasoline engine, can be bought for 2,330,000 rubles, and anyone can buy the GLK 350 CDI model. purchase for 2390000 rubles.
Summing up
Mercedes-Benz GLK is the perfect solution for those who love style and unique design, those who value comfort and safety while driving. And let the price of this model is not very modest, but it's worth it, isn't it?
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Whole photo session As we approached La Clusaz, the high-speed straights gave way to picturesque winding roads. And here again a surprise. As it turned out, after the revision of the chassis (the parameters of the springs and shock absorbers were changed), the car became more obedient and tenacious, and not at the expense of comfort - the GLK is very pleasant to “refuel” into turns. Precise steering, slightly relaxed in the near-zero zone, allows you to establish a subtle connection with the car. Only the thrust of the 2.1-liter engine on steep alpine turns was not enough for me, on the serpentine the car had to be kept in good shape, wielding the paddles on the steering wheel “petals” of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-band “automatic”. In a word, the modification of the GLK 250 BlueTec 4Matic is more suitable for the city, where the engine will provide juicy “bottoms” for active rebuilding, as well as for the highway. For many, enviable profitability will also be a plus. Such a Mercedes-Benz consumes only 6.5 l / 100 km of diesel fuel in the combined cycle.
Another thing is the top diesel version of the GLK 350 CDI 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY. I change into this car already in La Clusaz and understand that I am simply fascinated by the 3-liter diesel “six”. Such a GLK does not need to be encouraged, the sport and manual transmission modes are only needed here for avid racers. Powerful acceleration with the notorious pushing of the body into the chair can also be achieved in the “drive” mode. Surprise, however, is not necessary. In fact, this is the fastest and most powerful GLK, not counting the upcoming versions from AMG. Diesel produces 265 hp. and 620 Nm, accelerating the crossover to 100 km/h in just 6.4 s. Only at “maximum speed” the GLK 350 CDI 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY loses to the top petrol modification GLK 350 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY 6 km/h. In addition, after the revision, the most powerful diesel engine of the model has also become 17% more economical. A modest appetite is also facilitated by the 7-band “automatic” 7G-TRONIC PLUS and the “start / stop” system that turns off the engine when the car stops.
Finally, we managed to test the top-end gasoline modification. I got behind the wheel of the GLK 350 4Matic Blue-EFFICIENCY on the second day of the driving presentation, and information from the representatives of the brand fueled interest in it - Russian sales will begin with gasoline versions, while diesel GLKs will reach our country no earlier than six months later. The car, equipped with a 3.5-liter atmospheric “six”, is good, but, in my opinion, is focused more on autobahns. The motor, which added 34 hp after restyling, develops 306 hp, but still gives out its maximum at high speeds. However, there is no need to complain about a sluggish pickup under any circumstances, whether it's off-road, riding a mountain serpentine or pushing in traffic jams. On the mountain road, I liked to operate the automatic transmission paddles, keeping the engine at the peak of traction. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-band “automatic” installed here (the only transmission reserved for the Russian market) goes through gears at lightning speed, but a slight pause after the “kickdown” is still noticeable, and to a greater extent in gasoline cars. The GLK's brakes bring the crossover to a halt with ease, and an emergency braking system will help in emergency situations.
With your own money
Russian sales of the updated GLK are already starting, and the first modifications to enter the market are the GLK300 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 350 4Matic BlueEFFICIENCY, which are priced at 1,890,000 and 2,390,000 rubles, respectively. Whether the price is high or not is a rhetorical question. In my opinion, for those who consciously choose a universal Mercedes-Benz car, the numbers are quite adequate. Yes, non-premium classmates are cheaper, but do not forget that when purchasing a car like the GLK, the consumer also receives a whole range of proprietary technologies and nice options - such as a multimedia unit with Internet access, driver fatigue monitoring systems, lane keeping, control behind dead zones, circular video review, adaptive cruise control, smart and nimble navigation. The list, as you know, is far from complete. In addition, after restyling, the GLK remained one of the most beautiful and thoroughbred cars in the Mercedes-Benz model line, and this fact cannot be discounted either.
offroad arsenal
GLK, despite being technically close to the C-class, was created with an eye on the G- and GL-class SUVs. Hence the "G" in the title. The off-road capabilities of the car were tested at a special training ground, replete with steep descents, climbs and water obstacles, and the test crossovers were equipped with an optional off-road package in this area. This implies improved geometric cross-country ability (clearance 231 mm), off-road settings of the all-wheel drive system (the center differential clutch locks earlier than standard GLKs without regular off-road assistants). ABS and ESP automatically adapts to off-road conditions (the moment of braking of the wheels is corrected). In addition, shift points in the 7G-TRONIC PLUS gearbox are transferred higher. Finally, there is a Descent Assist System (DSR) - a kind of autopilot that helps to move down the hills, the driver only needs to control the speed. As a result, the GLK easily coped with all obstacles - it did not get stuck, did not skid, and did not sit on its belly. So the off-road package can definitely be recommended to summer residents, tourists, fishermen and hunters.
