The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the compact SUV segment. This model year brought with it a blend of sophisticated comfort, robust performance, and advanced safety features that continue to appeal to discerning drivers. Let’s explore the comprehensive standard and optional equipment that defined the 2013 GLK 350.
Unpacking the Standard Comfort and Convenience of the 2013 GLK 350
The GLK 350 was designed with occupant comfort and convenience in mind, boasting a range of standard features to enhance every journey. Entertainment and information are readily accessible through the AM/FM radio with weather band, alongside a single CD player equipped with MP3 capability and a 6-speaker sound system with auxiliary input for external devices. Hands-free calling is streamlined with the integrated Bluetooth interface.
Operationally, the GLK 350 simplifies driving with automatic headlamps featuring a twilight sensor and locator lighting for enhanced visibility. Cruise control maintains set speeds effortlessly, while intermittent wipers automatically adjust to rainfall. Inside the cabin, dual-zone automatic climate control, complete with a dust filter, ensures personalized temperature regulation for both driver and passenger. Power windows with express up and down functionality add to the ease of use.
The interior is appointed with MB-Tex upholstery complemented by Burl Walnut wood trim, creating a luxurious ambiance. The driver benefits from an 8-way power-adjustable seat and a tilt and telescoping steering column, ensuring an optimal driving position. The premium leather multifunction steering wheel incorporates shift paddles and a 4.5″ color instrument cluster display for key vehicle information at a glance. Practicality is addressed with front and rear cupholders, a trip computer, and privacy glass. For cargo management, the flat-folding 2nd-row seat expands the cargo space to 54.7 cubic feet, accessible via the exterior chrome load sill plate. Roof rails add to the vehicle’s utility and aesthetic. Finally, rear window intermittent wiper and washer maintain rear visibility in inclement weather.
Performance and Handling Dynamics of the 2013 GLK 350
Under the hood, the 2013 GLK 350 is powered by a potent 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 gasoline engine, delivering 302 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 273 lb-ft of torque between 3,500 and 5,250 RPM. This engine is paired with a 7-Speed Driver Adaptive Automatic Transmission featuring Touch Shift and Eco and Sport Shift Programs, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The inclusion of ECO Start/Stop technology further enhances fuel efficiency.
The GLK 350’s handling is refined by the AGILITY CONTROL suspension system with a selective damping system, adapting to various driving conditions for a comfortable yet controlled ride. It features an independent suspension setup—3-link at the front and multi-link independent at the rear. Electromechanical steering contributes to precise handling and responsiveness. Braking is handled by substantial brake discs, 13″ at the front with dual-piston calipers and 11.8″ internally ventilated discs at the rear.
The 4MATIC permanent All-Wheel Drive system with a 45/55 front-to-rear drive split ensures confident traction in diverse conditions. Visually, the GLK 350 is equipped with 19″ 5-triple-spoke alloy wheels with 235/50 R19 all-season tires and a dual exhaust system finished with chrome exhaust tips, adding to its sporty yet elegant appeal.
Safety and Security Systems in the 2013 GLK 350
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2013 GLK 350, equipping it with a suite of advanced safety and security features. The ATTENTION ASSIST system monitors driver behavior and can alert the driver if drowsiness is detected. The vehicle is also equipped with Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™ for connectivity and emergency services. Adaptive brakes incorporate HOLD function, brake drying, hill start assist, and pre-charging for enhanced braking performance and safety in various situations.
Passive safety features include dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags, driver and passenger pelvic airbags, window curtain airbags for both front and rear occupants, and a driver kneebag. NECK-PRO active front head restraints are designed to mitigate whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions. The vehicle’s structural integrity is underpinned by a high-strength steel body cage with crumple zones and a safety cell.
Active safety systems are equally comprehensive, featuring Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with Trailer Stability Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), and the 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4MATIC). Further security is provided by an anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button remote. The GLK 350 also includes integrated LED daytime running lamps and rear fog lamps for improved visibility, rear door child safety locks, and the Universal LATCH system with top tether anchors for child seats in the 2nd row outboard positions. An advanced tire pressure monitoring system keeps drivers informed of tire conditions. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality is reflected in the new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance program.
Optional Packages for Enhanced Personalization of the 2013 GLK 350
For buyers seeking to further customize their GLK 350, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages.
The Premium 1 Package ($3,450) elevates comfort and convenience with features like 4-Way Power Lumbar Support, a 115V AC Power Outlet in the cargo area, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, Garage Door Opener, Digital Compass Display in the rearview mirror, Auto-dimming Driver-Side and rearview Mirror, Driver’s Seat Memory & Power Steering Column, Power Tilt/Sliding Panorama Sunroof, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and a Power Liftgate.
The Leather Package ($2,100), available only with the Premium 1 Package, adds full leather upholstery, Passenger Seat Memory, Comfort Headrests, and Interior Ambient Lighting for a more luxurious cabin experience.
The Lighting Package ($1,290) enhances visibility and aesthetics with a Headlamp Cleaning System, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.
For a sportier appearance, the AMG Styling Package ($1,990) includes Sport Bodystyling, LED daytime running lamps, Aluminum Roof Rails, and 20” AMG Himalaya Grey Double Spoke Wheels.
The Appearance Package ($990) offers visual upgrades with 20” 5-Spoke Wheels and Aluminum Roof Rails.
For enhanced infotainment and driver assistance, the Multimedia Package ($2,790), also requiring the Premium 1 Package, includes a Rearview camera and the COMAND System with Hard-Drive Navigation.
The Lane Tracking Package ($850) incorporates Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist for added safety on highways.
The most comprehensive Driver Assistance Package ($2,950) features DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Brake Assist Plus, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, representing the pinnacle of driver assistance technology available for the 2013 GLK 350.
Standalone Options and Customization Choices for the 2013 GLK 350
Beyond packages, individual standalone options allowed buyers to fine-tune their GLK 350. These included SiriusXM Satellite Radio ($460), a premium harman/kardon sound system ($810), PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist ($970), a Trailer hitch ($550), Brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs ($670), Heated front seats ($750), KEYLESS-GO ($650), and the iPod/MP3 Media Interface ($310).
Exterior paint choices offered a range from solid colors like Black, Mars Red, and Polar White to metallic finishes like Obsidian Black, Lunar Blue, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Cuprite Brown, Diamond White, Pebble Grey, and Diamond Silver. Interior upholstery options included Black MB-Tex, Almond/Beige MB-Tex, Grey MB-Tex, Black Leather, Mocha Leather, and Almond/Mocha Leather, providing ample opportunity for personalization.
In conclusion, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 offered a compelling blend of standard luxury, performance, and safety, further enhanced by a wide array of optional packages and standalone features, allowing owners to tailor their vehicle to their exact preferences. It remains a sought-after model for those appreciating Mercedes-Benz engineering and design in a versatile SUV format.
