A Brief Look at the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
Mercedes-Benz has been a major player in the luxury automobile industry for many decades. The German automaker has consistently produced vehicles that embody style, sophistication, and unparalleled performance. One of the most popular Mercedes-Benz models of recent years is the GLK-Class, which has been a veritable success story since it was introduced in 2008. The GLK-Class combines excellent driving dynamics with spaciousness, versatility and refinement, making it the perfect vehicle for those who are looking for a luxury SUV. This article will explore the history and evolution of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, covering all generations of this iconic model and the significant features and changes they have undergone.
First Generation (2008-2012)
The first generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was initially introduced at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show as a concept car. It wasn’t long before it went into production, hitting the market in the same year. As the first SUV for the automaker that was not based on a truck chassis, the GLK-Class introduced a new era in luxury SUVs that was based on combining the most recent automotive technologies with SUV functionality. The GLK-Class was designed to provide a genuine driving experience while retaining the elegance and style Mercedes is known for.
The first generation GLK-Class boasted a boxy appearance with sharp lines and creases. It had a wheelbase of 108.5 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, a width of 72.4 inches, and a height of 66.9 inches. The cabin was roomy and comfortable, with enough space for both driver and passengers. Standard features on the GLK-Class included a modestly powerful V6 engine, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a seven-speaker stereo, and Bluetooth connectivity.
During its short production span, there was only one GLK-Class trim available and no significant changes were made during these years.
Second Generation (2013-2015)
The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was introduced in 2012, with the refreshed model making its debut at the New York International Auto Show in 2012. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class brought some significant upgrades compared to the first generation. One of the most notable changes was the exterior design, which was more refined and streamlined.
The second generation GLK-Class had a slightly longer wheelbase, measuring 108.7 inches, and was also longer and wider than its predecessor. The SUV’s exterior styling reflected Mercedes’ latest design language, with a streamlined appearance and more fluid lines. Additionally, the 2013 GLK-Class came with a wider range of engine sizes and transmission options than the previous model.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 featured a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produced 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine was coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Other upgrades included standard 19-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, a power liftgate, and stability control.
In 2014, a new AMG Sport package was introduced. This package offered a sporty aesthetic to the GLK-Class, with a unique front bumper and grille, side skirts, and 19-inch wheels. Additionally, the interior of the AMG Sport package featured black leather upholstery with red stitching and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The AMG Sport package also came with a retuned suspension that provided the driver with better handling and a more thrilling driving experience.
Third Generation (2015-2019)
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was launched in 2015, and was significantly different from its predecessors. The biggest change was the name itself, with the GLK-Class being renamed the GLC-Class. The GLC-Class was designed to be more than just an upgrade; it was an entirely new vehicle with a completely different design.
The GLC-Class was longer, wider, and lower than the GLK-Class, with an overall length of 183.3 inches, a width of 74.4 inches, and a height of 64.5 inches. The exterior design was bolder and more streamlined, with a modern and sophisticated look that reflected the latest Mercedes design language. The GLC-Class also featured a more spacious and luxurious cabin with high-quality materials used throughout.
Under the hood, the GLC-Class was powered by a variety of engines. The base model was the GLC300, which featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, there was a diesel-powered model available, the GLC250d, fitted with a 2.1-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The range-topping model was the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, which was equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque.
Fourth Generation (2020-present)
The current-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was introduced in Geneva in 2019 and went into production in June 2019 as a 2020 model. The fourth-generation GLC-Class had several updates, including a new design, more powerful engines, and new features.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has a body that is longer than its predecessor, measuring 183.3 inches. The design is sleek and stylish, featuring a larger grille and slimmer headlights. It also now comes standard with LED headlights. The interior of the GLC-Class is even more luxurious, with premium leather seats and wooden accents. The GLC-Class now features a 10.2-inch touchscreen display as standard, which can be controlled using the touchpad next to the gear shifter. Other features available include a 360-degree camera system and a digital instrument cluster.
Under the hood, the base model GLC300 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. There is also a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive option available. The range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC + has 503 horsepower and over 500 lb-ft of torque.
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The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class has come a long way since its debut in 2008. The GLK-Class started as a humble luxury SUV and evolved into the current GLC-Class, a luxury SUV that is packed with the latest technology and features. Over the years, the GLK-Class has improved in every aspect, including design, performance, and features. Today, the GLC-Class remains one of the most popular luxury SUVs on the market, with a reputation for luxurious comfort, impressive performance, and outstanding reliability. With its rich history and innovative spirit, the GLC-Class is truly an exceptional vehicle.