The Mercedes-Benz GLK has been redesigned for the 2013 model year, with bolder exterior styling, a dramatically restyled interior, and crisp driving dynamics. The redesign for 2013 involves nearly 1,000 new parts that include bolder front and rear bumpers, new headlights and a more graceful front grille. Inside, the new dash features eyecatching burl walnut trim that now spans the entire width of the cabin as well as shift controls relocated to the steering column.
Smaller and lighter than its well known SUV siblings, the 2013 model GLK is also equipped with a new direct-injection 3.5 liter V6 engine with 302 horsepower and 273 lb. ft. of torque, an innovative ECO Start/Stop system, a more fuel-efficient seven-speed automatic transmission with Direct Select and electromechanical steering. A fuel-sipping four-cylinder diesel model, the GLK350 BlueTEC, will arrive early next year.
A number of innovative Mercedes-Benz safety features are available for the first time on the GLK, including standard Attention Assist and optional Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. The new electrically assisted steering also makes possible optional Active Parking Assist.
A new option for the 2013 model GLK, Blind Spot Assist uses dedicated radar sensors to monitor both blind spots behind the vehicle. Whenever a turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, the driver gets visual and audible warnings. A separate option, Active Blind Spot Assist incorporates an intervention feature, in which ESP braking automatically helps correct the car’s course if the driver doesn’t heed the initial warning.
Another new option, Lane Keeping Assist makes use of a special computer to analyze images from a multi-purpose camera in the windshield to recognize lane markings. This system alerts the driver by simulating rumble strip vibrations in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on. A separate option, Active Lane Keeping Assist as well as Active Blind Spot Assist incorporates an intervention feature, in which ESP braking automatically helps correct the car’s course if the driver does not heed the initial warning.