| 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4Matic |
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Our Overview Pros - C-Class chassis provides agile sporting feel, despite the vehicle's tall-ish stature
- As comfortable as any Mercedes, yet functional both off-road and as a hauler (relatively speaking)
- Bluetec diesel version coming soon
Cons - G-Wagen inspired, angular exterior takes some getting used to
- Starts to get a bit pricy when the options are tacked on
- Rear cargo area isn't as usable as we would like
Year:
2010
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Model:
GLK350 4Matic
Vehicle Class:
SUV
Base Price Range:
$35K - $45K
| Car Summary: Initially,the GLK's exterior design seemed curious. It's a definite departurefrom its larger brethren, representing sort of a shrunken hybrid of anML and a G-Wagen. The sharp, angular lines are unique, though anacquired taste of sorts -- but we applaud Mercedes-Benz for takingchances. They've got to do something to draw attention to their newcompact SUV -- since they've all but stood on the sidelines while BMWmoved half a million of its X3s into the luxury compact SUV market.
Those who venture a closer look at the GLK wouldn't be disappointed,though. Inside is as comfortable, accommodating and elegant as you'dexpect from anything Mercedes -- something that stands in sharp butwelcome contrast to the vehicle's performance and capabilities. By thenumbers, the GLK has 8 more horsepower, 23 more pound-feet of torqueand is 0.7 seconds faster to 62 mph than the X3. With a towing capacityof 4400 pounds, the ability to safely navigate through a foot of water,and fourthcoming "off-road" option packages, the GLK is just about asfunctional as it is comfortable. Numbers and features can only say somuch, though. The GLK is, plain and simple, an enjoyable drive and anexcellent option as year-round, multi-function luxury SUV.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
Handling
• Excellent handling at higher speeds. Almost too easy to speed.
• Satisfying acceleration with no torque-steer to speak of
• Great on long, muddy dirt roads
Drivetrain
• Smooth and linear, no complaints
• Enough power and torque to make freeway passing and weaving surprisingly easy for an SUV
• Reasonably fast off the line and able to overtake most "regular" vehicles from a standing stop
Sense Points
• Interior is comfortable and well-done
• A few spots not 100 percent up to M-B standard, but acceptable nonetheless
• Quiet ride, despite spirited performance
Situational
• Both wet and loose surfaces have little effect
• Suspension absorbs bumps, potholes, etc. very well
• No problem reaching and exceeding highway speeds
DESIGN
Appearance
• Angular, edgy exterior might not work for everyone
• Tall stance and high carriage give it a confident, tougher appearance
• Seems bigger than it actually is -- has a larger presence than we'd expect by the numbers
Functional
• Capacious rear-cargo area, particularly with seats folded forward
• Mercedes-Benz's nav and entertainment console is among the best, in our opinion
•All HVAC, window, comfort controls within close reach. All interfaceand surface design is intuitive and intelligently thought out.
Comfort
• Seats are form-fitting and can articulate to accommodate most people's form
• Spacious interior with legroom front and back
• Leather seats are soft and comfortable, but offer enough support where necessary
• Ride is quiet and comfortable on all tested surfaces
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發表於 2009-7-10 12:01 PM
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