The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 has often been described as an unconventional vehicle, sparking different reactions from car enthusiasts. Some find its boxy silhouette and upright stance unusual, while others appreciate its unique blend of SUV practicality and wagon-like aesthetics. The 2013 model year brought subtle yet significant enhancements to the GLK, refining both its exterior and interior, along with some notable mechanical upgrades. This review delves into the specifics of the 2013 Mercedes-benz Glk 350, exploring its design, performance, and overall appeal in the competitive luxury SUV market.
Side profile of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 showcasing its distinctive boxy design and tall SUV stance.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 features an updated 3.5-litre V6 engine. Mercedes-Benz incorporated direct injection technology, resulting in a notable power increase to 302 horsepower at 6500 RPM, alongside improved fuel efficiency. The engine also delivers a robust 274 lb.ft of torque at 3500 RPM, marking an improvement over the previous model.
Power is channeled to all wheels via a 7-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system. This combination ensures smooth and responsive performance, effectively moving the GLK’s 1845 kg (4067 pounds) weight.
Close-up of the “GLK 350” badge on the rear of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK, indicating the model and engine specification.
Fuel economy was a common concern among owners of earlier GLK models. The 2013 update addressed this with improved figures. Officially rated at 11.1 L/100 km in urban driving and 8.1 L/100 km on highways, the GLK demonstrates better efficiency. During a week-long test drive involving city commutes, occasional freeway driving, and a highway run, the reviewer averaged 12.2 L/100 km (19 mpg). While not exceptional, this is a reasonable figure for a vehicle of this type. The fuel tank capacity is 66 litres.
The engine bay of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, highlighting the updated 3.5-liter V6 engine with direct injection for enhanced power and efficiency.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 received a refreshing update to its exterior rather than a complete redesign. It retains its signature design elements: a distinctly upright windshield, a short wheelbase relative to its length, and an overall boxy silhouette that defines its SUV/wagon character.
Rear three-quarter view of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, emphasizing its boxy shape and refreshed taillight design.
The GLK’s styling has always been polarizing, often evoking strong “love it or hate it” reactions. The updated front fascia features a prominent chrome element that some might perceive as a skid plate. LED daytime running lights are integrated into the front side intakes, and the exhaust tailpipes are now wider and flattened. These subtle changes contribute to a more modern appearance.
The test vehicle was equipped with striking 20-inch wheels fitted with 235/45-sized tires, filling the wheel arches assertively. The front grille proudly displays a large Mercedes-Benz star emblem. Interestingly, the reviewer recounts an anecdote of someone asking about the car’s make while standing directly in front of the grille, highlighting the GLK’s somewhat unique and perhaps less universally recognized design. The boxy design of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK offers a refreshing alternative to the prevalent smooth and flowing lines seen in many contemporary vehicles, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s willingness to explore different design directions.
Close-up of the 20-inch wheel on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showcasing its sporty design and low-profile tire.
Interior, Technology, and Convenience Features
A major area of improvement in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 is its interior. The previous generation GLK’s cabin was often criticized for lacking a luxurious feel. Mercedes-Benz addressed this effectively with the refresh, bringing the interior up to contemporary luxury standards. High-quality materials are evident throughout, including soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and upper door panels, and stitched leather-like upholstery on the door panel middles. While the reviewer noted a slightly unusual texture on the aluminum trim, it was not considered overtly negative. Despite the presence of a dual-pane sunroof, headroom remains excellent in the front. The sunroof features a front panel that tilts and slides, while the rear panel is fixed.
Wide view of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 dashboard, highlighting the improved materials, updated design, and integrated infotainment screen.
The heated front seats are described as exceptionally comfortable and feature power adjustability, including powered headrests. Both front seats include a 3-position memory function. However, the reviewer suggests that more bolstering in the perforated leather seats would be beneficial for more spirited driving.
Front seats of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 upholstered in perforated leather, showcasing power adjustability and comfortable design.
The driver is presented with a power-adjustable steering wheel with controls for media, phone, driver information screen, and hands-free functions. Behind the steering wheel is a three-gauge instrument cluster, with a central speedometer incorporating a digital driver information screen. Mercedes-Benz relocated the gear selector from the center console to the steering column, a change that initially feels reminiscent of older American cars but proves functional and frees up console space.
The center stack houses a clear, user-friendly screen powered by Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND system. This system manages navigation, audio, phone, video, and vehicle settings, controlled via a rotary joystick on the console. While the interface is described as not entirely intuitive, users acclimate to it over time. The screen also displays the rearview camera with dynamic trajectory lines and integrates front parking sensors.
Center stack of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showing the COMAND infotainment system screen, physical buttons, and dual-zone climate controls.
Below the screen, redundant physical buttons mirror the main screen functions, alongside a full numeric keypad, the purpose of which the reviewer questions in terms of driver focus. Dual-zone automatic climate control is located at the base of the stack. The center console includes two cupholders and an armrest.
Additional convenience features include automatic headlights, power-folding mirrors, a key fob that requires insertion and twisting to start the car (traditional key style), and a power trunk lid operable from the driver’s door panel or key fob. A button on the trunk lid allows for closing and setting a custom height for the trunk opening.
Rear Passenger Area
The second row of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 accommodates three passengers with three seats, seatbelts, and headrests. The reviewer found the rear door opening somewhat narrow, making entry and exit slightly restricted, particularly for larger feet. Once inside, headroom is ample. Legroom, a known limitation in the previous GLK generation, is now adequate but not exceptionally spacious. The outboard seating positions are comfortable, while the middle seat is narrower, firmer, and impacted by a prominent floor tunnel, though still usable for adults when necessary. The rear sunroof panel contributes to a brighter ambiance in the second row.
Rear seats of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, demonstrating the seating layout and available space.
The rear seating area comfortably accommodated three children and includes two sets of easily accessible ISOFIX child seat mounts. Rear passenger amenities include individual dome reading lights, adjustable air vents, seatback map pockets, small storage cubbies at the rear of the center console, and a 12V power outlet. The middle seatback folds down to serve as an armrest with a carpeted storage bin and two cupholders.
Storage Capacity
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 offers various storage solutions throughout the cabin. The glove compartment is reasonably sized and cooled. Door bins are not particularly spacious, and a small mesh pocket is located in the passenger footwell.
A shallow, oddly shaped bin with a sliding lid is located in the console, also housing an ashtray and cigarette lighter. The split-opening armrest reveals a compact but practical carpeted bin with USB and media interface plugs.
Rear cargo area of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 with the seats up, showing the standard trunk space.
Despite its appearance, the trunk capacity is moderate at 450 litres, equipped with a removable and retractable tonneau cover. Folding down the 60/40 split rear seats expands the cargo area significantly to 1550 litres, providing ample space for larger items. The load floor is positioned quite high. Limited underfloor storage is available for small items.
Expanded cargo area of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 with the rear seats folded down, maximizing storage capacity.
Driving Dynamics
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 delivers competent performance. Initial acceleration is smooth, although the transmission tends to quickly upshift to higher gears, giving a slightly relaxed feel in normal driving. However, pressing the accelerator reveals a different character. The GLK accelerates briskly, reaching higher speeds rapidly, and feels notably more powerful above 3000 RPM compared to its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, with independent tests recording times as quick as 5.8 seconds.
The ride quality is firm, characteristic of European vehicles. While it can feel somewhat firm on rougher surfaces, it avoids becoming harsh.
Front view of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, highlighting its grille, headlights, and overall front-end design.
Handling is commendable for a vehicle of its type, with well-tuned electronic steering. Cornering ability is impressive considering its height, ground clearance, and short wheelbase. Body lean is present but controlled, and the GLK responds effectively to steering inputs.
The 7-speed automatic transmission is exceptionally smooth and adaptable in all driving situations. Manual shifting using paddles is available but shifts are slow and offer minimal advantage. Engaging Sport mode and allowing the automatic transmission to manage gear changes is more effective for more spirited driving.
Braking performance is strong, with brakes that can feel slightly grabby at times. The all-wheel-drive system remained unobtrusive during dry pavement driving conditions. Noise levels are low in urban environments, with wind noise around the A-pillars becoming noticeable at highway speeds.
4MATIC badge on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, indicating the presence of Mercedes-Benz’s all-wheel-drive system.
An ECO mode is included, primarily activating the auto start/stop system. This system is noticeable but less intrusive than similar systems in some competitors, such as the BMW 328i. The GLK also offers a towing capacity of up to 3500 pounds.
Additional Features
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 includes practical details like heavy-duty tie-down rings in the rear footwells, a useful addition for securing cargo. Notably, it features both a 12V plug and a 115V household power socket in the trunk, enhancing convenience and utility.
Close-up of the steering wheel in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showing controls for media, phone, and driver information.
Minor Drawbacks
A minor inconvenience noted is the wide and high door sills, requiring a somewhat high step to enter and exit the vehicle.
Side profile of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 at dawn, highlighting its silhouette and ground clearance.
Final Verdict
The reviewer concluded with a positive impression of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350. Appreciation was expressed for its utilitarian, boxy design that stands out from more conventional SUVs. The GLK is praised for its smooth performance and responsive power when needed, as well as the upgraded luxurious interior, enhancing its premium feel both inside and out.
The GLK 350 received a rating of 7.5 out of 10, with the score just shy of an 8 due to the as-tested price becoming quite expensive with options.
Detail of the headlight design on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showcasing its integrated LED accents.
The “Wife Acceptance Factor” was exceptionally high, with positive feedback on its appearance, driving experience, and perceived perfect size – not too large, not too small, offering sufficient trunk and rear seat space while remaining easy to park and maneuver.
Despite its upscale nature and blend of luxury, utility, and performance, the GLK’s price can escalate significantly with added options. Exercising restraint with option packages is advised to maintain a reasonable price point. However, for those who enjoy fully equipped vehicles, the cost of this “entry-level” Mercedes SUV can become surprisingly high.
Rear view of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showing its taillight design and boxy rear profile.
Disclosure: Vehicle was provided by Mercedes-Benz Canada.
If you found this review helpful, explore more of our vehicle reviews.
Rear quarter view of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, emphasizing its boxy rear design and taillights.
Mercedes-Benz badge on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, symbolizing luxury and brand recognition.
Driver’s perspective from inside the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, showing the dashboard, steering wheel, and forward view.
