Mercedes GLK /Review

The times of the massive, ponderous SUV are over. Not therefore much because people do not want a sport/utility vehicle, but the one that they're curious about purchasing offers several of the same capabilities in a smaller package.

The compact Mercedes GLK is the newest in a very family of sport/utility vehicles that have modified the approach individuals suppose about Mercedes-Benz. Certain, the safari-like GL remains standard with some patrons while the massive ML continues to hold sway in a class where every luxury build features a presence. However the five passenger GLK shows that the same suspension, agility and style afforded to its larger brethren works quite well on a smaller scale.

Smaller Scale, Big Cabin

Although from the skin the Mercedes GLK looks abundant smaller than it really is, it's on the inside where patrons learn simply how a lot of room is obtainable to them. Head, shoulder and foot room is additional than ample and, with two sunroofs, the inside looks even larger.

Obviously, the seating in the GLK is at the high of its game. That shouldn't be a surprise to Mercedes devotees, however it's a refreshing amendment for a vehicle in this segment. Too typically a compact SUV sacrifices some comfort so as to stay its value down, but the Mercedes GLK flies against that trend by delivering full luxury while not compromise.

Sturdy Engine, Off Road Capability

Underneath the hood, the 3.5L V6 engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, providing the correct quantity of power and delivering a combined 18 mpg whether or not you select the front wheel drive or all wheel drive model. Most customers appear to like the latter, giving them the best ride below all kinds of road conditions. And, a pair of off road packages allows drivers to take the Mercedes GLK where its larger brethren roam, just the type of option required to win the mud season wars.

The brake system is yet another space where Mercedes shines, which suggests that that the GLK encompasses a splendidly short braking distance. Traction control, brake assist and anti-lock brakes work to bring the GLK to a full stop while the SUV's independent back and front suspension help to stay the Mercedes under the motive force's complete management in the slightest degree times.

Let's Take Out The Boat

Within the GLK, Mercedes has additionally solved a downside that sportsmen have with most compact SUVs - they simply aren't designed with a massive towing capacity. However Mercedes configured the GLK to not solely perform well on and off road, however to do therefore whereas pulling as much as 4400 lbs of boat or camper behind it. Strive to seek out that abundant towing capability in most compact luxury SUVs and you'll be laborious pressed to come back up with a comparable package without paying additional for it.

And obviously the Mercedes GLK comes totally equipped with all of the technological gizmos you expect from surround sound audio system, navigation unit, active front head restraints, antitheft alarm system and a lot of - offering maybe the most effective blend of safety, security, technology and drivability of any compact luxury sport/utility vehicle on the market.