2012 New York Auto Show Debut: 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

• Updated interior and exterior design
• New and upgraded powertrian options

• Mercedes is updating its entire SUV and crossover line-up
• Added power and fuel economy in the ever-growing luxury SUV market

• updated exterior design uses current Mercedes design cues
• completely redesigned interior with a more stylish and sporty look
• More powerful base engine and optional diesel engine

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Debut: Styling

The 2013 GLK-Class features a familiar look with new Mercedes-Benz designs including sleeker headlights, LED daytime running lights and a massive two-bar grille showing off an equally large tri-star logo. The overall shape of the GLK remains the same with its boxy proportions and angular body creases, but new taillights and a sportier rear fascia add to the updated look. For a more aggressive look, an AMG Exterior Styling Package is also available. Inside, the new GLK-Class is more distinguishable from its predecessor with a totally redesigned cabin that starts with a cleaner instrument panel with circular HVAC vents and a sportier three-spoke steering wheel. One of the biggest changes is that the console-mounted shifter has been replaced by Mercedes’ Direct Select shifter on the steering column helping to create a sleeker center console area.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Debut: Under the Hood

The base GLK350 uses the same direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 as the previous model, but power output has been increased to 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The big news under the hood is the addition of a 2.1-liter diesel inline-four engine in the GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic that produces 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes claims this is the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine ever used in an SUV and will be available in early 2013.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Debut: Competition

The GLK-Class competes in the luxury crossover segment that includes models such as the BMW X3, Cadillac SRX, Audi Q5 and Infiniti EX. As a growing number of entry-level crossovers like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Volkswagen Tiguan begin to sneak into the sub-luxury realm, this will put even more pressure on models like the updated GLK-Class.

Why We Like It

The new styling of the 2013 GLK-Class fits the SUV’s smaller proportions much better while the new interior gives is even more refined. We always love more power and better fuel economy, and the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class comes through with both with an upgraded base engine and an all-new diesel BlueTEC model. The new GLK-Class continues to be a right-sized luxury SUV, and although final pricing for the updated model has yet to be announced, it will continue to be priced right in the mid-$30,000 range.

Original photos by Jeffrey N. Ross