Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
The newly designed exterior lends the GLK added dynamism. The body combines classic elements of all-terrain vehicles with the design idiom of the current Mercedes-Benz models. Stringent lines, expansive surfaces and the smooth-surfaced, volume-emphasizing front and rear areas harmonise with the hallmark GLK body features which are typical of classic, functional all-terrain vehicles. Apart from the attendant benefits in off-road terrain, this design also offers concrete advantages in day-to-day use. The high seat position provides a commanding view of the traffic situation, with the body lines also designed for excellent visibility.
The designers at the Centre of Competence for Interiors have undertaken a thorough makeover of the dashboard, for example: a wide trim in aluminium or optionally in wood spans the entire width of the dashboard. The new round vents and additional trim elements in silver shadow also catch the eye. A high-end colour display is optionally available for the instrument cluster. A three-spoke sports steering wheel, new upholstery colours and seat designs plus indirect ambient lighting featuring LED fibre-optic technology, which is available on the GLK for the first time, further enhance the feel-good atmosphere inside the car.
Clean machines: the GLK engine range
The range of engines provides for drive comfort and attractive performance in all GLK models in conjunction with low emissions and fuel consumption. In all, there is a choice of six diesel models and one petrol engine. The GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC features a four-cylinder diesel engine generating 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 500 Newton metres of torque from a displacement of 2143 cc. Despite its formidable performance, this model is extremely frugal when it comes to fuel consumption: on average, the compression-ignition engine consumes 6.1 to 6.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (159 - 169 g CO2/km, NEDC combined mode).
The two rear-wheel-drive models GLK 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with six-speed manual transmission are even more fuel‑efficient. Both versions get by on 5.5 - 5.6 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres (143 - 147 g CO2/km, NEDC combined mode). The top performer among the diesel versions is the GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. Despite the 25 kW (35 hp) power increase, the top diesel model runs on around 17 percent less fuel, at 6.9 - 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres (179 - 183 g CO2/km, NEDC combined mode). The GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-engine model featuring the trailblazing engineering of the leading generation of V-engines deploys BlueDIRECT technology to make its mark in terms of performance and fuel consumption.
The excellent fuel economy of all GLK models is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as by this state-of-the-art engine technology. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Low-friction axle drives, electric steering and tyres with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption.
Exemplary safety as standard
Assistance systems familiar from the S- and E-Class feature as standard to enable a further improvement in active safety and driver-fitness safety and take the compact SUV to the top of its market segment. Electric steering with STEER CONTROL, which supports the driver in unstable driving conditions by triggering an impulse which can be felt on the steering wheel, prompting countersteering by the driver in the correct direction, Brake Assist (BAS), which provides additional brake power when emergency braking is detected, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE featuring Hill-Start Assist, HOLD function, brake drying in the wet and priming of the brake system all support the driver. The high standard of active safety is ensured by the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system, the ESP® Electronic Stability Program with integrated trailer stabilisation and tyre pressure loss warning and, on the 4MATIC models, by permanent all-wheel drive and the 4ETS electronic traction system.
Optional equipment includes the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system and the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system. Additional assistance systems, including active variants, are optionally available. One example here is Active Parking Assist, enabling automatic manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces. To facilitate manoeuvring when visibility is poor there is a backup camera with guide lines or - for the first time from Mercedes-Benz - a 360° camera. Additional systems are optionally available as individual items or in special packages. The Driving Assistance package Plus comprises DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. The Parking package combines the described 360° camera including Active Parking Assist and PARKTRONIC. The Lane Tracking package includes Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist. Another new development is the Offroad Engineering package in combination with the Intelligent Light System (ILS). Offroad Light is available here for trips in difficult terrain. Specific headlamp settings provide for better off-road orientation by more widespread illumination of the field of vision.
The revamped GLK-Class incorporates the integral safety concept in keeping with Mercedes-Benz's brand philosophy, which is based first and foremost on real accident scenarios. The GLK's highly robust occupant cell provides an effective basis for occupant protection in conjunction with the front and rear deformation zones. The GLK comes with numerous standard-fit items of equipment to protect its occupants. In addition to airbags, pelvisbags and sidebags for driver and front passenger, there are also windowbags for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers as well as a kneebag for the driver. The crash-responsive pedals and the crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints for driver and front passenger further bolster the level of protection. An active bonnet serves to reduce the risk of injury for the more vulnerable road users.
Attractive pricing beginning at € 36,235.50
The comprehensive range of equipment and appointments for the GLK includes details which are generally the reserve of higher classes of vehicle. With a total of seven model versions, the GLK-Class furthermore offers one of the most comprehensive model ranges in the compact SUV segment (Prices for the German market, incl. 19% VAT):
Design: Rock-solid character in a fresh guise
The newly designed exterior lends the GLK added poise. The body combines classic elements of all-terrain vehicles with the design idiom of the current Mercedes-Benz models. Stringent lines, expansive surfaces and the smooth-surfaced, volume-emphasizing front and rear areas harmonise with the hallmark GLK body features which are typical of functional all-terrain vehicles. These include short overhangs, the upright front end, slender roof pillars, a steep windscreen and the taut roof line. The body design is not a stylistic end in itself. Rather, it applies the advantages typical off all-terrain vehicles to the compact SUV class. Accomplished ATV-specific features such as approach and departure angle and ground clearance enable off-road ventures at any time. The neatly designed body and the good all-round visibility combined with the seat position enhance suitability for everyday use and provide for relaxed driving.
Beneath the newly designed headlamps, all models offer LED daytime driving lights in a chrome clasp as standard. The radiator grille with two slats and central star follows the design idiom of the current passenger car models. The slats are painted silver, with chrome inserts optional. The headlamps embody a new interpretation of the signature Mercedes lamp design. On the basic model with reflection-type headlamps, a chrome torch feature spans the two reflectors. On models fitted with the Intelligent Light System (ILS), the bi-xenon headlamp comprises the projection unit, a reflector and the torch with LED fibre-optic cables for the position light, above which the turn signal indicators consisting of individual LEDs are located.
A particularly striking feature of the side view is the roof rails, featuring a totally new design tailored to the new design idiom. The polished gallery bar rests on black plastic supports and lends the silhouette a more elegant line. As a welcome side-effect of this new design, the new rails weigh considerably less than their predecessors. This is particularly beneficial to driving dynamics, as a weight reduction in the roof area of a vehicle has a far greater impact than equivalent weight savings in other areas, such as the underbody.
The rear bumper lends a bold, sporty character to the GLK's rear end with its width-emphasizing lines and delicate tail lights. Particularly striking features here are the new-style simulated underguard - optionally in chrome - and the chrome-plated tailpipe trims integrated in the rear apron which also come as standard. The tail lights have undergone a complete revamp in terms of both appearance and functions. Fibre-optic cables and LEDs are also employed to provide the GLK's rear end with a unique and characteristic night design, the new licence plate LED lamp adding a finishing touch.
New wheels feature as part of the model facelift, in size 43.2 cm (17-inch), 48.3 cm (19-inch) and 50.8 cm (20-inch) and sporting various paint finishes or a high-sheen finish. An aerodynamically optimised 43.2 cm (17-inch) wheel is also available.
The AMG Sports package for the GLK
For GLK customers who appreciate sporty elegance a comprehensive AMG Exterior Sports package is available, boasting hallmark design features from the renowned customisation company. These include AMG front and rear apron, the specific radiator grille with two chrome slats, AMG LED‑ daytime driving lights, 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels and a sporty suspension setup.
Interior: Even classier setting, high feel-good factor
Designing the new interior for the GLK was an exacting task. The compact SUV's width was to be emphasized so as to further heighten the feeling of space inside the vehicle. At the same time, the developers were also intent on enhancing the impression of quality. Their efforts have spawned impressive results: The GLK's interior offers the comfort, the ergonomics and the quintessential MB feel-good factor which is generally the reserve of higher classes of vehicle.
The designers at the Centre of Competence for Interiors have undertaken a thorough makeover of the dashboard, for example: a wide trim in aluminium or optionally in wood spans the entire width of the dashboard. The new round vents and additional trim elements in silver shadow also catch the eye. A high-end colour display is optionally available for the instrument cluster. A three-spoke sports steering wheel, new upholstery colours and seat designs plus indirect ambient lighting featuring LED fibre-optic technology, which is available on the GLK for the first time, further enhance the feel-good atmosphere inside the car. The models with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission are fitted with the DIRECT SELECT lever in ergonomically convenient position on the steering column tube. This frees up space in the centre console for a stowage compartment, which is provided with a precision-finished frame in silver shadow and can be closed by means of a retractable cover.
Interior Sports package substantially upgraded
The Interior Sports package which was available for the predecessor model has been upgraded to include black sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre with stitching in alpaca grey (alternatively real black leather upholstery). Other components are the 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather, door centre panels in ARTICO man-made leather with diagonal stitching, shift lever in nappa leather with chrome surround and sports pedals in brushed stainless steel.
Infotainment: better entertainment, better information
The GLK is fitted with the Audi 20 CD radio as standard, with the following functions:
- Twin tuner
- TFT display with 14.7 cm (5.8") diagonal
- mp3/wma/aac-compatible CD drive
- USB interface incl. CD cover display
- AUX-IN socket in the centre armrest
- Bluetooth® interface with hands-free function and audio streaming for music transfer
- Telephone keypad
The GLK goes online with special infotainment offerings, offers its occupants concert-hall acoustics and provides new entertainment facilities for rear passengers:
- COMAND Online multimedia system: fast hard-disc navigation with high-resolution 17.8 cm colour display, free use of the integrated Mercedes-Benz apps and call-up of internet sites, LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system, USB interface and AUX-IN socket in the centre armrest, telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP‑profile) in the armrest for telephony and internet connectivity, Mercedes-Benz eCall emergency call system.
- In conjunction with COMAND, a TV tuner for digital TV reception (DVB-T) is being offered in the GLK for the first time
- Harman Kardon® Logic 7®surround sound system including 7-channel DSP amplifier and 2-channel booster with a total output of 510 W in conjunction with twelve high-performance loudspeakers, Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS.
- Becker® MAP PILOT: fully integrated navigation module with 2D/3D map display, navigation information shown on the display of the Audio 20 CD, operation via central controller and acoustic output of driving recommendations via the vehicle's loudspeakers
- Central colour display in the instrument cluster offering photorealistic quality
- Apple iPad® rear integration Plus. The convenient, ergonomic and crash-safe docking station for the iPad® is optionally available in the rear of the GLK. The mount can be tilted and turned by 180°, all connections remaining accessible. In addition, the battery can be charged via an integrated USB interface with the aid of a charging lead
Three new apps are available for COMAND Online - for news, share prices and help in finding a parking space. It is planned to introduce around a dozen new apps each year. Daimler has set up an App Development Group specifically for this purpose in Palo Alto, California/USA and Bangalore, India.
Active safety: Assistance systems take the GLK to the top of its market segment
Assistance systems familiar from the S-Class and E-Class feature as standard to enable an improvement in active safety and driver-fitness safety and take the compact SUV to the top of its market segment. Electric steering with STEER CONTROL as standard, which supports the driver in unstable driving conditions by triggering an impulse which can be felt on the steering wheel, prompting countersteering by the driver in the correct direction
Brake Assist (BAS), which provides additional brake power when emergency braking is detected, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE featuring Hill-Start Assist, HOLD function, brake drying in the wet and priming of the brake system when emergency braking is detected all support the driver. The high standard of active safety is ensured by the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system, the ESP® Electronic Stability Program with integrated trailer stabilisation and tyre pressure loss warning and, on the 4MATIC models, by permanent all-wheel drive and the 4ETS electronic traction system.
Optional equipment includes the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system or the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system. Additional assistance systems, including active variants, are optionally available. One example here is Active Parking Assist, enabling automatic manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces. To facilitate manoeuvring when visibility is poor there is a backup camera with guide lines or - for the first time from Mercedes-Benz - a 360° camera. This feature uses image information from four cameras in the front and rear areas and in the exterior mirror housing to generate a bird's eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. The undistorted image is presented in real time on the central COMAND display. In addition to the functions of the backup camera, it also enables monitoring of the areas to the side of the vehicle and in front of the vehicle, thus helping to avoid inadvertent collisions during manoeuvring. Guide lines provide additional assistance, the 360° camera marking the vehicle's movement range according to the steering wheel angle.
Additional systems are optionally available as individual items or in special packages. The Driving Assistance package Plus comprises DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. The Parking package combines the described 360° camera including Active Parking Assist for automatic manoeuvring in and out of parking spaces and PARKTRONIC. The Lane Tracking package includes Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
The right direction: recommendations from STEER CONTROL
The facelift provides the GLK with electromechanically assisted direct steering. This configuration employs a variable steering ratio which becomes noticeably more direct as the steering wheel angle increases. This provides the driver with better feedback from the road and reduces the necessary steering work. In turn, this results in improved handling and agility. The electric steering system additionally offers speed-sensitive power assistance, providing for enhanced steering comfort throughout the entire speed range.
Even if the driver ignores STEER CONTROL's recommendations, sufficient reserves remain available to stabilise the vehicle with the dynamic handling control systems such as ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ESP® or 4ETS. STEER CONTROL always supports the driver in an "advisory" role, never overruling them.
Stability pact: AGILITY CONTROL - suspension with selective damping system
With the AGILITY CONTROL suspension the GLK demonstrates a high standard of flexibility and is able to resolve the conflict between the different aims pursued in designing SUV suspensions: on the one hand, chassis and suspension engineers seek to create a vehicle which is sporty and agile while at the same time offering a comfortable and soft ride and also performing well on off-road terrain. When the onus is on sporty, adaptive handling, the springs and above all the shock absorbers require a certain hardness. This, in turn, rules out the desired suspension comfort which is typical of the brand and imposes restrictions on off-road capabilities. If the vehicle is fitted with softer dampers in pursuit of suspension comfort and off-road performance, this will naturally diminish the driving dynamics. "Stroke-dependent damping" provides a way out here. The shock absorber is configured such that its cushioning forces are applied in a flexible manner. During normal driving over moderately contoured roads or on slow cross-country trips the system responds in soft mode, to the benefit of the occupants' wellbeing and the vehicle's off-road performance. In order to ensure that this wellbeing is also maintained when the driver adopts a bolder style or in abrupt evasive manoeuvres, the dampers then switch to a harder mode to provide for a high level of driving stability in such situations.
To avoid any unpleasant consequences in the event of tyre damage, all GLK models incorporate a tyre pressure loss warning system. This system detects sudden pressure losses in a tyre and triggers a corresponding warning in the instrument cluster. Tyre pressure monitoring is optionally available to further improve safety in this area. Incorrect tyre pressure or "creeping" pressure losses are indicated by the warning "Check tyres", while rapid pressure losses trigger the message "Caution Tyre malfunction". The tyre pressure monitoring system identifies newly fitted wheels automatically.
"Offroad Engineering package" enables superior off-road performance
The Offroad Engineering package continues to be available, ensuring that the vehicle is well able to assert itself away from paved roads with Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), off-road driving programme (adaptation of transmission shift points and accelerator characteristic), tough underguard and a raised suspension.
When the "Offroad Engineering package" is on board, the so-called "off-road switch" in the centre console enhances the GLK's capabilities in difficult terrain. At the touch of a button a special drive programme is started which varies the shift points of the 7G-TRONIC, "softens" the accelerator characteristics and activates the ESP® off-road functions with off-road ABS and a special off-road 4ETS system. Engine control intervention is subsequently reduced and the system additionally permits higher wheel slip values. This control strategy improves off-road traction in particular on surfaces offering low friction levels, such as sand, gravel or rubble. The GLK's off-road ABS was premiered in the current M-Class. It identifies the most diverse ground conditions via the continuous comparison of wheel slip models. This results in the best possible deceleration strategies for off-road trips on rock, sand, rubble, gravel or slush.
In this equipment variant with Offroad Engineering package, is provided with a manual drive programme (M) in which the individual gears can be selected via paddles on the multifunction steering wheel. This operating mode guarantees maximum off-road driving enjoyment. An additional switch activates Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), which automatically maintains a preset speed between 4 and 18 km/h on steep downhill stretches. The driver is able to vary the speed at any time by means of the cruise control lever.
The ground clearance of 210 millimetres and the minimal body overhangs (824 mm at the front, 957 mm at the rear) results in an approach angle of 23 degrees and a departure angle of 25 degrees; the ramp angle stands at 19 degrees. The GLK is able to negotiate gradients of up to 70 percent; the maximum angle of inclination is 35 degrees. Together with the relatively compact wheelbase of 2755 millimetres and the comparatively low vehicle weight, this ensures that the GLK is able to make good progress even in topographically difficult terrain.
Offroad Light for better off-road visibility
When travelling at low speeds in confusing off-road terrain, the broadest and brightest possible illumination of the area in front of the vehicle is expedient to enable more effective and faster recognition of obstacles. As for the GL, a special Offroad Light is thus also available for the new GLK in conjunction with the Offroad Engineering package and the Intelligent Light System (ILS). The Offroad Light goes on automatically when the driver activates the Offroad drive programme while the headlamps are on. To this end, the bi-xenon headlamp modules pan outwards by 6 degrees, the luminous power of the xenon burner is increased by 3 W and a symmetrical light distribution is set. In addition, the LED cornering lights on both sides are switched to permanently lit mode, while dynamic curve illumination and range adjustment are deactivated. These settings ensure broader and brighter illumination of the area directly in front of the vehicle in comparison to ILS, which is optimised for on-road use, enabling any obstacles to be recognised more quickly.
The Offroad Light is active up to a speed of 50 km/h. Upon the driver dropping below this threshold, the ILS automatically reactivates the light functions which are optimised for on-road use.
Passive safety: Exemplary safety as standard
The revamped GLK-Class incorporates the integral safety concept in keeping with Mercedes-Benz's brand philosophy, which is based first and foremost on real accident scenarios. The GLK's highly robust occupant cell provides an effective basis for the occupant protection systems in conjunction with the front and rear deformation zones.
In developing the active and passive safety of the new GLK, Mercedes-Benz has drawn on the findings of its in-house accident-research activities, which began over 60 years ago and continue to play an instrumental role in the ongoing evolution of automotive safety. This fund of knowledge is complemented by the latest findings from real accident scenarios, detailed simulations and extensive test series. The sum total of all this knowledge is incorporated into the development process and applied in concrete protection measures.
- Safe driving: avoiding danger, warning and assisting in good time
- In case of danger: acting in an anticipatory manner with PRE-SAFE®
- In an accident: appropriate protection
- After an accident: mitigation of consequences, swift assistance
The GLK comes with the following standard-fit items of equipment to protect its occupants:
- Airbags for driver and front passenger, kneebag for driver, pelvis bags for driver and front passenger, sidebags for driver and front passenger, windowbags for driver, front passenger and rear passengers
- Seat occupancy recognition for front passenger seat
- Crash-responsive pedals
- ISOFIX child seat anchorage points in the rear and Top Tether attachment points on the rear of the rear seat backrest
- 5 head restraints, height- and tilt-adjustable for driver, front passenger and in the rear, crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints for driver and front passenger
- 3-point seat belts including mechanical belt height adjustment and belt force limiter for driver and front passenger plus automatic belt height adjustment on the outer rear seats, belt status display for rear seats in the instrument cluster
- Pedestrian protection with active bonnet
Sidebags are optionally available for the rear passengers.
Mercedes to the rescue: Mercedes-Benz emergency call system "MB eCall"
When the new GLK is fitted with COMAND Online, the eCall automatic emergency call system from Mercedes-Benz is on board automatically. After a serious accident the rescue services can be notified automatically and are provided with comprehensive information within a matter of minutes, including details such as the accident location or the vehicle model. How it works: if airbags or belt tensioners are activated in a crash and COMAND Online is connected to a mobile phone, eCall will relay the vehicle's exact GPS position and its identification number (VIN). This information is sent via SMS to the Communication Center's emergency call and service office, with the position data also being transmitted using the DTMF method (dual-tone multi-frequency). Even if the occupants are unconscious or unsure of where they are because they are on a business trip, for example, the emergency services alerted by the Communication Center will be notified quickly, receiving accurate information.
The vehicle will also quickly establish a voice connectionwith the Communication Center. Communication takes place not in the language of the country in which the vehicle is located, but in the language which the driver has set for COMAND Online. It is also possible to make an emergency call manually because "Mercedes-Benz emergency call" is always the first entry in the phone book. eCall will be introduced in several stages: on 1 June 2012 the automatic emergency call system will be introduced in nine European countries - Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Great Britain, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands and Switzerland. A further 19 countries will be added at the end of 2012. All Mercedes models which are launched after 1 June 2012 will offer the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system in combination with COMAND Online. Apart from possible mobile phone charges, Mercedes customers will not incur any costs for the Mercedes-Benz eCall system.
Drive system: Efficient, clean, powerful: the GLK's drive system
The modern range of engines in conjunction with the comprehensive BlueEFFICIENCY measures provides for drive comfort and attractive performance in all GLK models combined with low emissions and fuel consumption.
In all, there is a choice of six diesel models and one petrol engine. The GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC boasts the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in the SUV world. The direct-injection engine rated at 150 kW (204 hp) and generating 500 Newton metres of torque from 2143 cc enables the GLK to perform superbly. Key merits are the engine's torquey character, its top speed and its flexibility. Despite its formidable performance, this model is extremely frugal when it comes to fuel consumption: on average, the compression-ignition engine consumes 6.1 to 6.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC fuel consumption). CO2 emissions stand at 159-169 grams per kilometre. Similarly to the GLK 220 BlueTEC 4MATIC model, it also complies with the EU6 emissions standard and the US BIN‑ 5 standard.
The two rear-wheel drive models GLK 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with six-speed manual transmission are even more fuel‑efficient. Both versions get by on 5.5 - 5.6 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres (143 - 147 g CO2/km). The top performer among the diesel versions is the GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. 620 Newton metres of torque provide the V6 compression-ignition engine with exceptional power delivery from low revs. Despite the 25 kW/35 hp power increase, the top diesel model runs on around 17 percent less diesel fuel, at 6.9 - 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres (179-183 g CO2/km, NEDC combined mode).
The GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-engine model makes its mark with the groundbreaking technology of the leading generation of V engines from Mercedes-Benz. At the heart of the BlueDIRECT technology package lies the third-generation spray-guided direct petrol engine with piezo injectors. In combination with multi-spark ignition, this technology offers further potential for fuel savings.
BlueEFFICIENCY measures for further reductions in fuel consumption
The excellent fuel economy of all GLK models is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as the state-of-the-art engine technology. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Low-friction axle drives, electric steering and tyres with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption.
7G-TRONIC PLUS, standard on all 4MATIC models of the GLK-Class, boasts even lower converter slip and optimised efficiency. A central role is played by the new torsion damper, which effectively eliminates torsional eccentricities and vibrations in the transmission. The lower the rpm and the lower the number of cylinders, the more severe these can be. This results in a conflict of aims between comfort and fuel-efficient operation. Mercedes-Benz developers resolved this by using what is known as a twin-turbine damper, which is also fitted with a centrifugal pendulum on the diesel models. Depending on the rpm, this moves the centre of mass and allows comfortable operation even in the most economical operating range. Furthermore, the optimised damping allows a marked reduction in the slip of the torque converter lockup clutch even under low loads, which also contributes to fuel savings. This technology also allows an even faster response to driver commands via the accelerator pedal. Friction-optimised bearings and new transmission oil thermal management also help reduce fuel consumption.
The standard-fit ECO display in the instrument cluster further enables the driver to check the effects of his driving style on fuel consumption, and to modify his driving behaviour as necessary. The ECO display visualises the fuel efficiency of the driver's style by means of three bar diagrams. Moderate acceleration, steady driving and a foresighted, anticipatory style triggers a rise in the individual bars, which always stand at 50 percent when the vehicle is started up. Conversely, heavy acceleration, major variations in speed or frequent braking in relation to coasting down without braking cause the bar values to drop. Drivers who quickly fill the bars and keep them at 100 percent thus demonstrate a particularly energy-efficient style of driving.
4MATIC: powerful all-wheel drive with cutting-edge control systems
The 4MATIC drive system in the GLK-Class is among the most powerful all-wheel drive systems there is; its control systems break new ground. Advantages over other systems with a transversely installed drive unit are achieved thanks to the basic compact, light and friction-loss-optimised design with its longitudinally positioned engine and integrated main and transfer case. Fuel consumption, for example, is at the same level as that of a comparable, conventionally driven vehicle, whilst noise and vibration levels are on a par with those in higher vehicle categories.
In combination with the ESP®, ASR und 4ETS dynamic handling control systems, the basic 45 : 55 percent distribution of drive torque between front and rear axle provides for superior and clearly predictable handling. The newly developed multi-disc clutch in the central differential supports the system when particularly low friction values apply between tyres and road surface, such as on snow or ice. A basic locking effect of 50 Newton metres between front and rear axle results in a significant increase in traction while maintaining a high level of driving stability.
Model range and equipment: Comprehensive scope of standard equipment and appointments, attractive packages
The GLK-Class offers a standard of equipment and appointments on a par with the premium segment, including details which are generally the reserve of higher classes of vehicle. With a total of seven model versions, the GLK-Class furthermore offers one of the most comprehensive model ranges in the compact SUV segment. All models come as standard with a comprehensive range of equipment and appointments designed to optimise safety, comfort and agility for the occupants or to relieve the strain on the driver both on long trips and in urban traffic.
Equipment for maximum comfort and comprehensive safety
All models come as standard with a comprehensive range of equipment and appointments designed to optimise safety, comfort and agility both on long trips and in urban traffic. Overview of the comprehensive standard scope of equipment:
- 43.2 cm (17") light-alloy wheels in 7-spoke design with 235/60 R 17 on 7.5 J x 17 ET47.5
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE including Hill-Start Assist, HOLD function, brake drying in the wet and priming
- AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system
- Airbags system: airbags for driver and front passenger, kneebag for driver, pelvis bag for driver and front passenger, sidebag for driver and front passenger, windowbag for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, seat occupancy recognition for front passenger seat
- Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Audio 20 CD radio with dual tuner, TFT display with 14.7 cm (5.8-inch) screen diagonal, MP3/WMA/AAC-compatible CD player, USB interface incl. CD cover display and AUX-IN socket (in the centre armrest), Bluetooth® interface with hands-free function and audio streaming for music transfer, telephone keypad
- Brake Assist (BAS), assisting the driver with additional brake power when emergency braking is detected
- Crash-responsive pedals
- DIRECT SELECT gearshift system, additional steering wheel shift paddles (when 7G-TRONIC PLUS is installed)
- Direct-Steer system with speed-sensitive power assistance and variable steering ratio, STEER CONTROL
- ECO start/stop function
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) including ESP® trailer stabilisation
- Headlamp Assist with automatic headlamp activation
- Folding rear seat backrests (1/3:2/3) and locking indication
- Pedestrian protection with active bonnet
- ISOFIX child seat anchorage points in the rear and Top Tether attachment points on the rear of the rear seat backrest
- THERMATIC automatic climate control with two zones, separate temperature regulation for driver and front passenger, combination activated charcoal filter to reduce dust and odours, recirculation switch with convenience function, sun sensor and rear vents
- 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with 4ETS electronic traction system (except for GLK 200/220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY)
- Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter (except for GLK 200/220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY
Attractive equipment and appointment packages
- AMG Exterior Sports package
- AMG front and rear aprons, radiator grille with two chrome slats, AMG-specific LED daytime running lamps, 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design, sporty suspension tuning and Chrome package.
- Exterior Chrome package
- Roof rails in electropolished aluminium, chrome underguard at front and rear, radiator grille featuring two slats with chrome inserts, chrome sill protector, chrome beltline trim strip, chrome rub strip, side skirts painted in body colour
- Offroad Engineering package
- Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), off-road driving programme (adaptation of transmission shift points and accelerator characteristic), simulated Gemtex underguard, suspension raised by +30 mm, Offroad Light and luxury multifunction steering wheel
- Parking package
- 360° camera including Active Parking Assist with automatic function to aid manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces, PARKTRONIC
- Interior Sports package
- 3-spoke luxury multifunction steering wheel with perforated grip area and twelve buttons, anthracite instrument cluster with tubes, white background and 11.4 cm TFT display, sports seats in front, ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre upholstery in black with stitching in dark alpaca grey or black leather upholstery with stitching in dark alpaca grey, shift lever in nappa leather with chrome surround, brushed aluminium trim in dashboard and around door openers, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with black rubber studs, door centre panels in ARTICO man-made leather with diagonal stitching for driver's, front passenger's and rear doors, reversible mat in luggage compartment and cord floor mats for 1st and 2nd seat rows
Individual options for customers' individual requirements
- EASY-PACK tailgate with electric opening and closing
- Intelligent Light System - bi-xenon headlamps with variable light distribution and dynamic range adjustment for country roads, motorways and heavy fog, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, active curve lights and headlamp cleaning system
- THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control with three zones, including residual heat mode, separate temperature selection for driver, front passenger and rear with display, combined dust and activated charcoal filter, sun and air quality sensor
- Two-tone designo leather upholstery including metal designo badge, velour floor mats with edging in black designo leather and designo fabric roof lining in black
- Leather upholstery including piping and mechanical lumbar support for driver and front passenger
- ARTICO man-made leather upholstery
- Reversing camera
- Rear sidebags on the left and right
- Climatised seats for driver and front passenger, including seat heating
- and ventilation (with reverse flow function) and perforated leather
- Sports suspension with sporty tuning and direct steering
- Wood trim in high-gloss black ash or high-gloss brown burr walnut
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