The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 has always been a vehicle that sparks debate. Its boxy silhouette and upright stance are either a refreshing break from the norm or an acquired taste. For 2013, Mercedes refined the GLK, introducing subtle yet significant changes both inside and out. This review delves into the updated Mercedes Glk 2013, exploring its enhancements in design, performance, and overall appeal for the discerning driver.
Image: Side profile of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 showcasing its distinctive boxy design and updated styling.
Pricing and Packages of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4MATIC (as tested):
- Base Price: $44,900
- Options:
- Obsidian Black Metallic paint: $890
- Convenience package: $890
- COMAND Navigation package: $2,400
- Premium package: $3,600
- Freight: $1,995
- A/C and other taxes: $100
- Price as Tested: $54,775
Image: Close-up of the GLK badge on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, highlighting the model designation.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency Under the Hood of the 2013 GLK 350
Beneath the familiar exterior of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 lies an updated 3.5-litre V6 engine. The key enhancement is the addition of direct injection, resulting in a notable power increase to 302 horsepower at 6500 RPM, along with improved fuel efficiency. This refined aluminum engine also delivers 274 lb.ft of torque at 3500 RPM, further enhancing its performance capabilities.
Power from this V6 is managed by a smooth 7-speed automatic transmission, channeling it to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system. This combination ensures confident handling and power delivery, effectively moving the GLK’s 1845 kg (4067 pounds) weight with ease in various driving conditions.
Image: Engine bay view of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 showcasing the updated 3.5-liter V6 engine with direct injection.
Addressing a common concern from previous GLK owners, fuel efficiency sees improvement in the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350. Official fuel economy ratings are 11.1 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway. During a week of mixed driving, including city commutes, occasional highway trips, and a longer highway drive, the observed average fuel consumption was 12.2 L/100 km (19 mpg). While not exceptional, it’s a reasonable figure for a vehicle of this type. The GLK 350 is equipped with a 66-litre fuel tank.
Refreshed Exterior Design of the 2013 Mercedes GLK
The Mercedes GLK 2013 maintains its distinctive boxy silhouette, but features a noticeable refresh to its exterior. The upright windshield, short wheelbase, and wagon-like SUV proportions remain, defining the GLK’s unique character.
Image: Rear quarter view of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 highlighting the boxy design and updated taillights.
The GLK’s design is often described as polarizing, evoking strong reactions from onlookers. The 2013 update includes a redesigned front fascia with a prominent chrome element, potentially resembling a skidplate. A strip of LED daytime running lights is integrated into the front side intakes, and the tailpipes are now wider and flatter. These subtle refinements contribute to a more modern and sophisticated appearance for the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350.
The tested model featured impressive 20-inch wheels, filling the wheel arches and fitted with 235/45-sized tires. The grille proudly displays an oversized three-pointed star emblem. Interestingly, the reviewer recounts an anecdote of someone asking about the car’s make while standing directly in front of it, emphasizing the GLK’s somewhat unconventional styling within the Mercedes lineup.
Image: Close-up of the 20-inch wheel on the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showcasing the sporty rim design and tire profile.
In a market saturated with flowing curves and aerodynamic designs, the GLK’s boxy aesthetic offers a refreshing alternative. Mercedes, known for its ability to create sleek and elegant vehicles, took a deliberate stylistic turn with the GLK, appealing to those who appreciate a more utilitarian and distinctive SUV.
Enhanced Interior, Technology, and Convenience Features of the 2013 GLK
A significant area of improvement for the 2013 Mercedes GLK is its interior. The previous generation’s cabin was often criticized for lacking a luxurious feel. Mercedes addressed this with a comprehensive refresh, bringing the interior up to contemporary luxury standards.
Image: Wide view of the dashboard of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showing the updated design and material upgrades.
The materials used throughout the cabin are noticeably upgraded. The upper dash and door panels are made of soft-touch plastic, while the door panel inserts are upholstered in stitched, leather-like material. The aluminum trim, while featuring a unique texture that may not appeal to everyone, is generally well-executed. Despite the presence of a dual-pane sunroof, headroom remains excellent in the front. The front sunroof panel is power-operated, tilting and sliding, while the rear panel is fixed.
Image: Front seats of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, highlighting the perforated leather upholstery and power adjustments.
The heated front seats are exceptionally comfortable and offer extensive power adjustments, including power-adjustable headrests. Both front seats include a 3-position memory function. However, the reviewer notes that while attractive, the perforated leather seats could benefit from more bolstering for more spirited driving.
The driver is greeted by a power-adjustable steering wheel with integrated controls for the media system, phone, driver information screen, and hands-free functions. Behind the steering wheel is a three-gauge instrument cluster, with a large central speedometer incorporating a crisp driver information screen. A notable change in the 2013 Mercedes GLK is the relocation of the gear selector from the center console to the steering column. While initially feeling reminiscent of older American cars, this column-mounted shifter proves functional and frees up space on the center console.
The center stack houses a clear, easy-to-read screen powered by Mercedes’ COMAND system. This system manages navigation, audio, phone, video, and vehicle settings, controlled by a rotary joystick on the console. While the COMAND interface is not the most intuitive initially, users become accustomed to it over time. The screen also displays the rearview camera with helpful trajectory lines for parking, complemented by front parking sensors.
Image: Center stack of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showcasing the COMAND screen, controls, and dual-zone climate system.
Below the screen are physical buttons duplicating major screen functions, along with a full numeric keypad – a feature the reviewer questions in terms of driver focus. The lower portion of the center stack houses the dual-zone automatic climate control system. The console includes two cupholders and an armrest.
Additional convenience features include automatic headlights, power-folding mirrors, and a key fob that functions traditionally, requiring insertion and twisting to start the car. A power trunk lid is operable from the driver’s door panel or the key fob and can be closed via a button on the trunk lid, which also allows stopping the lid at any desired height.
Rear Seat Comfort and Practicality in the 2013 GLK
The second row of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 offers seating for three, with three seatbelts and headrests. The reviewer found the rear door opening to be somewhat narrow, making entry and exit slightly restricted, particularly for larger feet. Once inside, rear headroom is generous. Legroom, a known limitation in the previous GLK generation, is adequate but not exceptional. The outboard seating positions are comfortable, while the middle seat is narrower, firmer, and impacted by a prominent floor tunnel, but usable for adults when necessary. The rear sunroof panel adds to the sense of spaciousness in the back.
Image: Rear seats of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showing the seating layout and rear sunroof.
The rear seat comfortably accommodated three children, and ISOFIX child seat anchors are easily accessible, a welcome improvement over some less user-friendly LATCH systems.
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 create an armrest with a carpeted storage bin and two cupholders.
Storage Solutions in the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350
Cabin storage in the 2013 Mercedes GLK is functional, though not overly abundant. The glove compartment is relatively small but is cooled. Door bins are not particularly spacious, and a small mesh pocket is located in the passenger footwell.
The center console features a shallow, oddly shaped bin with a sliding cover. Interestingly, it also includes an ashtray and cigarette lighter. The armrest’s split-opening lid reveals a small but useful carpeted storage bin, along with USB and media interface ports.
Image: Trunk space of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 with rear seats up, demonstrating the cargo area with tonneau cover.
While appearing visually large, the trunk offers a decent 450 litres of cargo space, covered by a removable, retractable tonneau cover. Folding the 60/40 split rear seats expands cargo capacity to a substantial 1550 litres, suitable for hauling larger items. The reviewer notes a high load floor. Limited underfloor storage is available for small items.
Image: Expanded trunk space of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 with rear seats folded down, showcasing the increased cargo capacity.
Driving Dynamics of the 2013 Mercedes GLK
The Mercedes GLK 2013 offers a capable driving experience. Initial acceleration is smooth, though the transmission tends to prioritize higher gears, giving a slightly relaxed feel. However, the GLK is far from slow and responds eagerly when more power is demanded. Above 3000 RPM, the updated engine feels significantly more potent than the previous model. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, but independent tests have recorded times as quick as 5.8 seconds.
The ride quality is firm, characteristic of European vehicles. While it can feel somewhat firm on rough roads, it avoids becoming harsh. The reviewer suggests it might be firmer than some drivers expect.
Image: Front view of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, emphasizing its confident stance and road presence.
Handling is commendably agile for an SUV. The electronic steering is well-calibrated, and cornering ability is impressive considering the vehicle’s height, ground clearance, and short wheelbase. Body lean is present but controlled, and the GLK responds promptly to steering inputs.
The 7-speed automatic transmission is praised for its exceptional smoothness and seamless operation in all driving situations. Manual shifting via paddles is available but deemed slow and largely unnecessary. For more spirited driving, Sport mode is recommended, allowing the automatic transmission to optimize gear selection.
Braking is described as powerful, sometimes even slightly grabby. The all-wheel-drive system remained unobtrusive during the dry road testing week. The GLK is generally quiet in urban driving, with wind noise around the A-pillars becoming noticeable at highway speeds.
Image: 4MATIC badge on the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, indicating its 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 towing capability, with a maximum capacity of 3500 pounds.
Noteworthy Details of the 2013 GLK
The 2013 Mercedes GLK includes practical details such as heavy-duty tie-down rings in the rear footwells, a useful addition for securing cargo. The inclusion of both a 12V plug and a 115V household plug in the trunk is highlighted as a particularly convenient and uncommon feature.
Image: Steering wheel detail of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showcasing the controls and material finish.
Minor Drawbacks of the 2013 GLK
The reviewer points out that the door sills are wide and positioned high relative to the floor, requiring a noticeable step to enter and exit the vehicle.
Image: Side profile of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 at dawn, showcasing its silhouette and ground clearance.
Final Verdict on the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350
Ultimately, the Mercedes GLK 2013 package is highly appealing. The reviewer appreciates its utilitarian, boxy design and its distinctiveness. The GLK delivers a smooth and capable driving experience with ample power when needed. The updated interior successfully elevates the GLK to a premium feel, both inside and out.
The 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 receives a rating of 7.5 out of 10. A slightly lower price point, particularly with options, could have pushed the rating higher.
Image: Headlight detail of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, highlighting the updated design.
The “Wife Acceptance Factor” was exceptionally high, with positive feedback on the GLK’s looks, driving experience, and ideal size – not too large, not too small, with sufficient cargo and rear seat space, and easy to park and maneuver.
While the GLK offers luxury, utility, and performance, its price can escalate rapidly with option packages. Judicious selection of options is recommended to maintain a reasonable price point for this “entry-level” Mercedes SUV.
Image: Rear view of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showing the updated taillights and rear design.
Disclosure: Vehicle was provided by Mercedes-Benz Canada.
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Image: Rear quarter view of the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showcasing its overall design and stance.
Image: Mercedes-Benz badge on the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, representing the brand’s luxury and engineering.
Image: Driver’s perspective from inside the 2013 Mercedes GLK 350, showing the dashboard and forward visibility.
