2013 GLK350 Loaner Review
07-20-2013, 03:42 PM
#1
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2013 GLK350 Loaner Review
I have a 2012 E550 sedan being serviced at the dealer and they gave me a 2013 GLK350 loaner with only 2,800 miles. I've driven about 200 miles in it so far.
I remember reading the terrible reviews when the GLK was first launched, but I have to say I was impressed with the updated 2013 loaner they gave me. It felt more solid than my E. No squeaks or rattles. And because it's based on the smaller C-class platform it handles better than my E. The steering is tighter and less numb than in my E, which is good. Ride comfort over bumps in my E is a 4/10. In the GLK I'd give it a 5/10. Transmission is smooth. Engine has good power.
I like the ECO option. The first time the engine turned off when I came to a stop I didn't even notice it. The only way I knew was the RPM needle dropped to 0. I think compared to the BMW 3 series and X3 I drove the stop/start system is more refined/quiet in the GLK. If you have the music playing I don't see how you could hear the engine stopping and starting.
Some downsides: Ride quality still a bit too firm over bumps, wind noise at highway speed, upright windshield could lead to more cracks from rocks, after about 45 minutes of driving my butt started to ache from the seats (I have the multi-contour seats in my E). Too bad there's no option on the GLK to upgrade the seats, but I understand it's an entry model.
I was expecting the GLK to be terrible, but I was very impressed with it. Even though I prefer sedans over SUVs I would consider getting a GLK.
I remember reading the terrible reviews when the GLK was first launched, but I have to say I was impressed with the updated 2013 loaner they gave me. It felt more solid than my E. No squeaks or rattles. And because it's based on the smaller C-class platform it handles better than my E. The steering is tighter and less numb than in my E, which is good. Ride comfort over bumps in my E is a 4/10. In the GLK I'd give it a 5/10. Transmission is smooth. Engine has good power.
I like the ECO option. The first time the engine turned off when I came to a stop I didn't even notice it. The only way I knew was the RPM needle dropped to 0. I think compared to the BMW 3 series and X3 I drove the stop/start system is more refined/quiet in the GLK. If you have the music playing I don't see how you could hear the engine stopping and starting.
Some downsides: Ride quality still a bit too firm over bumps, wind noise at highway speed, upright windshield could lead to more cracks from rocks, after about 45 minutes of driving my butt started to ache from the seats (I have the multi-contour seats in my E). Too bad there's no option on the GLK to upgrade the seats, but I understand it's an entry model.
I was expecting the GLK to be terrible, but I was very impressed with it. Even though I prefer sedans over SUVs I would consider getting a GLK.
07-20-2013, 05:39 PM
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GLK350, G55, AMG GTS, C63 507
Great to see you liked the GLK, it is a fantastic car and i honestly enjoy it. I drove the E550 COUPE and it is very fun! Very quick and puts a smile on my face when i floor it. I agree with the seats and the E has better seats but i can deal with it, i don't go on long drives..
