2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK Car Review

Mercedes took a long time in joining the premium small sport youth segment instead focusing their attention on big and bigger in the ML and GL. BMW has practically owned this class for years with their X3. But now, everyone is jumping in and for 2010 Mercedes brings us the GLK. Showcasing sharp lined flashy styling with an oversized 3 points star. This mini SUV emulates the look of the venerable G-Class even taking on its steeply rated windshield. And from behind the wheel it feels just the solid. Though built on a non-SUV like unibody platform, the GLK’s chassis and body is one rigid structure giving you the feeling of vault like security?

My tester came with the optional formatic full time 4-wheel drive system and though I only exercised on some very light off-road duty I was surprised by the GLK’s go anywhere persona. Though there's no transfer case with the low range there is nearly 8 inches of ground clearance and a comfort mode for the 7-speed auto to more adroitly administer the power and that power stands from under the C-class hood it’s a 268 horsepower, 3.5 liter V6 providing more than enough growth for the company’s sweet sounds.

Racing the 60 miles per hour can be accomplished in a brisk 6.5 seconds. So the GLK has that satisfying Mercedes level of power we've come to respect. Gas mileage on premium is a disappointing 16 MPG city 21 highway. And nagging the GLK from being a full forced performance machine there's some sucker mom friendly steering and some relaxed twisty road dynamics. My tester with the formatic and the host of costly options including the multimedia and full leather sitting packages and panorama sun roof comes in at $47,445.00 at that inflated price I’d expect fewer faults and personally I take the out in a heartbeat but the GLK has merits for its eye-catching design, comfortable ride, rock solid body, strong safety genes and energetic engine.

It just doesn’t evoke that driving passion and acumen of the excellent Q5. For Drive Time on yahoo autos, I'm Steve Hammes.