Mercedes Benz GLK Class 2013

Mercedes Benz GLK Class 2013 - At first glance, it doesn't look like much was done to the revised 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class crossover, short of the usual mid-cycle nip/tuck. But according to Benz, the GLK-Class, which is heading to the 2012 New york auto show, boasts more than 1000 new parts, most notably a stout new 2. 1-liter, four-cylinder diesel with an impressive 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

Mercedes Benz GLK Class 2013 - The changes to the updated GLK-Class begin with a new nose designed to bring the compact Mercedes crossover more in line with the company's most recent car and coupe models. A new headlight setup now comes with LED running lights; the two-bar grille has been slightly restyled with chrome inserts; and the lower grille is encased by a thick chrome trapezoid. At the back end, the GLK wears new taillights with LED and light pipe decorations, a redesigned chrome skidplate, and new exhaust tips. The license plate is now lighted by LEDs, and the standard 19-inch five-spoke wheels have been restyled. If those aren't big enough, Mercedes offers five-spoke 20-inch wheels as part of an optional appearance package. Topping the line successfully is the AMG Styling Package, with its 20-inch AMG wheels, body kit, aluminum roof rails, AMG LED normal running lamps, and minor updates to the front grille.

Under the GLK's hood, Mercedes has added the freshly massaged 3. 5-liter V-6 engine currently spidering through its lineup. Thanks to a higher data compresion relation and direct fuel hypodermic injection, peak output climbs from 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to 302 hp and 273 lb-ft, all while improving fuel efficiency in the process. The automaker expects 0-to-60 mph times in the 6. 5-second range on to a top speed of 130 mph. Additional fuel-saving measures include Benz's new ECOLOGICALLY stop-start system along with a lower-slip torque converter and a different type of fluid to help improve efficiency of the standard seven-speed automatic transmission.

Speaking of fuel efficiency, the new GLK250 BlueTec model will arrive in early 2013 powered by Benz's turbodiesel 2. 1-liter inline-four rated at 190 hp and 369 lb-ft. Mercedes says the diesel should provide "extremely frugal" fuel economy and expects the GLK250 BlueTec to go on sale before diesel variants of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Currently, the GLK350 is rated by the EPA at 16/22 mpg city/highway.

The final mechanical update is a move to electromechanical steering assist, instead of the previous hydraulic assist setup. Mercedes says the GLK's steering remains "precise and responsive" and is highlighted by speed-sensitive assist and a variable ratio.

Finally, the five-seat interior of the GLK receives multitude of improvements. The shift lever has been relocated from the center console to the steering column, which opens up space for just two more cupholders beneath a sliding cover. The dashboard air ports above radio stations have been changed from rectangles to dramatic circles that mimic those on the new 2013 Mercedes SL-Class roadster. A single piece of burled wood trim now covers the entire width of the dashboard.

New technology options include the Side of the road Tracking package, which features Side of the road Keeping Assist and a blind-spot warning system; and the Driver Assistance package, which has pre-collision braking, Active Side of the road Keeping Assist, and Active Impaired Spot Assist; and the Active Park Assist self-parking system. Among the other changes to the 2013 GLK-Class are the addition of two new paint colors, new upholstery and leather colors, and LED fiber-optic background lighting to the full Leather package.

The 2013 GLK350 hits motorbike shops come july 1st, and the GLK250 BlueTec will debut in early 2013. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale dates.