The only package not included on this tester was the Advanced Driving Assistance Package ($2,700) that pulls out all the bells and whistles with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and Active Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist, adding partial braking to correct steering course if you do not respond to the passive systems’ respective visual and tactile warnings. And if that’s not enough, the GLK’s solid structure should serve well in a collision, earning an IIHS Top Pick, but not yet tested by NHTSA.
All told, the options piled up to drive this $44,900 crossover well into the 50s. Add the $1,895 freight charge and $100 A/C tax and it rings in at $57,285, which is a lot of money, but for a lot of stuff. It’s a distinctive package, a boxy yet sculpted mini-GL, the AMG package with skirt package, chrome trim on the bumpers, and those 20-inch wheels standard for 2013 lending it a more technical look, especially when combined with the swoopy headlights and taillights, which add Mercedes’ new LED lighting effects for a distinct look at any time, day or night.
I wouldn’t exactly call the GLK 350 a bargain when loaded up to this level, but the value is there for the price as this compact utility vehicle does everything it sets out to do and does it well, within the inherent space limitations of a small truck. Aside from the crowded interior, it features all of Mercedes-Benz’ full array of technology, safety, their newfound driving dynamics, unexpected in this crossover segment, and the cachet of a brand that resonates with many consumers at a deeper level than logical arguments can reach.
   2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350. Click image to enlarge |
Pricing: 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4Matic
Base price: $44,900
Options: $10,390 (Driving Assistance Package – $800; Bi-xenon Headlight Package – $1,000; Convenience Package – $1,700; COMAND Navigation Package – $2,400; Premium Package – $3,600; Luzonit Grey paint – $890)
Freight: $1,895
A/C Tax: $100
Price as tested: $57,285
CompetitorsCompetitors
Acura RDX
Audi Q5
BMW X3
Cadillac SRX
Infiniti EX37
Lexus RX 350
Lincoln MKX
Volvo XC60
