Anyone switched from X3 to GLK?
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2007 S 600 / '06 911 Porsche C4S cab
Anyone switched from X3 to GLK?
My daughter has an '05 BMW X3 and I enjoy driving it, the nice handling and the airyness of the panoramic roof. I was thinking of switching her to a GLK since I'm a big MB fan. (I've an S 600).
Has anyone converted from an X3? If so, what do you think? Thanks!
Has anyone converted from an X3? If so, what do you think? Thanks!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Vancouver, BC
2011 GLK350
I haven't 'switched', but I test drove both the X3 and the GLK recently. I chose the GLK. The X3 beats the GLK on cornering ability hands down (rated 0.88 on skidpad vs. 0.77 for GLK), and the X3 has more cargo space. Fuel mileage for the GLK is not quite as good as I'd like to see.
GLK beats the X3 on just about every other metric on my list. Much better power/acceleration, better interior (X3 was far too 'plastic' looking for me, way nicer looking. Also, the current X3 model is on the way out, so dealer is offering very limited choices for colours, options, etc.
The whole comparison goes out the window if you're thinking about the new X3, probably available around December. I couldn't wait that long so I put down my order for the GLK.
Kn.
GLK beats the X3 on just about every other metric on my list. Much better power/acceleration, better interior (X3 was far too 'plastic' looking for me, way nicer looking. Also, the current X3 model is on the way out, so dealer is offering very limited choices for colours, options, etc.
The whole comparison goes out the window if you're thinking about the new X3, probably available around December. I couldn't wait that long so I put down my order for the GLK.
Kn.
Last edited by KenNinBC; Aug 23, 2010 at 04:48 PM.
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Diesel GLK in 20??
GLK versus new X3
I have test driven the 2010 GLK and I am patiently waiting to compare it to the new BMW X3. Even the first generation X3 beats the GLK in fuel efficiency and the new X3 will have additional efficiency enhancements to meet the 2012 CAFE standards. The new X3 will be assembled in South Carolina rather than the subcontractor factory in Europe that assembled (with issues) the first generation X3s.
The GLK will eventually get the 20-24% more efficient DI V6 engines that Mercedes has developed and announced. MB could also export the diesel 4 and six cylinder GLKs available in Europe and jump way ahead of BMW.
The GLK will eventually get the 20-24% more efficient DI V6 engines that Mercedes has developed and announced. MB could also export the diesel 4 and six cylinder GLKs available in Europe and jump way ahead of BMW.
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Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Boston and SWFlorida
2025 GLC300 white, 2023 Taycan RWD black
I had two X3's and the new one will be even better.
One advantage of the new one (even old one) is that it hold more than the GLK. I ended up getting a C300 and Honda CRV.
One advantage of the new one (even old one) is that it hold more than the GLK. I ended up getting a C300 and Honda CRV.
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From: Vancouver, BC
Jeep Cherokee Laredo, 2010 MB GLK 350
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/c...y-findings.htm
European brands continue to improve. Mercedes-Benz has made great strides, with most models average, and the GLK did exceptionally well in its first year. Scores from rival BMW were more mixed. The 535i sedan and X3 SUV declined in reliability, and the 135i, debuting in this survey, scored below-average. Some BMW models had average or better reliability, but the 328i versions are the only ones that we've tested and can recommend.
Volkswagen and Audi are staging a nice recovery. The Volkswagen Rabbit (Golf for 2010), and its new CC got top scores. The VW Jetta's recommendation now extends to the diesel version, making it the only diesel we currently recommend. Both the Passat and Audi A3 have improved to average. The new VW Tiguan SUV was average. The Audi Q7 SUV continues to be much worse than average, while the VW Touareg, which had the worst new car prediction score in the survey, is 27 times more likely to have a problem than the best, the Honda Insight.
All of Volvo's sedans were average or better, but Volvo's XC90 SUV was below average. Porsche, which has been doing quite well in our survey of late, had one serious hiccup this year: The Boxster dropped to below average, which strikes it from our recommended list. But the Cayenne SUV improved to average.
European brands continue to improve. Mercedes-Benz has made great strides, with most models average, and the GLK did exceptionally well in its first year. Scores from rival BMW were more mixed. The 535i sedan and X3 SUV declined in reliability, and the 135i, debuting in this survey, scored below-average. Some BMW models had average or better reliability, but the 328i versions are the only ones that we've tested and can recommend.
Volkswagen and Audi are staging a nice recovery. The Volkswagen Rabbit (Golf for 2010), and its new CC got top scores. The VW Jetta's recommendation now extends to the diesel version, making it the only diesel we currently recommend. Both the Passat and Audi A3 have improved to average. The new VW Tiguan SUV was average. The Audi Q7 SUV continues to be much worse than average, while the VW Touareg, which had the worst new car prediction score in the survey, is 27 times more likely to have a problem than the best, the Honda Insight.
All of Volvo's sedans were average or better, but Volvo's XC90 SUV was below average. Porsche, which has been doing quite well in our survey of late, had one serious hiccup this year: The Boxster dropped to below average, which strikes it from our recommended list. But the Cayenne SUV improved to average.
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From: Vancouver, BC
2011 GLK350
Car and Driver says:
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...erpoint_page_3
http://www.caranddriver.com/var/ezfl...00f9758223.pdf
Kn.
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...erpoint_page_3
http://www.caranddriver.com/var/ezfl...00f9758223.pdf
Kn.
Last edited by KenNinBC; Aug 24, 2010 at 04:04 PM.
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GLK 350 / Porsche 993
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From: Vancouver, BC
2011 GLK350
Hmmm ... so they (C&D) record .88 in one test, then show .81 in another set of aggregate results. Still more than .78 (marginally). When I did my earlier research I saw .88 in two different reviews, so went with that.
Results can vary depending on track surface, weather conditions, tire selection (I'm reading that GLKs were shipped with many different tire sets), driver, etc. so I guess it's all inconclusive. I do think, based on my own test drives, that the X3 is just a bit more nimble in the corners.
Kn.
Results can vary depending on track surface, weather conditions, tire selection (I'm reading that GLKs were shipped with many different tire sets), driver, etc. so I guess it's all inconclusive. I do think, based on my own test drives, that the X3 is just a bit more nimble in the corners.
Kn.
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From: Miami, FL
E320 CDI, GLK 350
X3 kills the GLK in handling, you don't need numbers; just drive one! However the X3 looks like ****! Ergonomics and interior are horrible. We ended up getting my mom a GLK, I wanted an MDX... she said it was too big. Would never consider the current X3. Financing for the Q5 was just retarded, why would anyone actually go through with Audi financing?
Not sure if the X3 comes with run flats, but thats a deal breaker here. After learning how ****ty, expensive, loud, etc... run flats are with my moms 328i never again, not for a sedan or SUV. I think the X5 now comes with run flats, sorry I'll take the ML.
Not sure if the X3 comes with run flats, but thats a deal breaker here. After learning how ****ty, expensive, loud, etc... run flats are with my moms 328i never again, not for a sedan or SUV. I think the X5 now comes with run flats, sorry I'll take the ML.
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From: Houston
2011 GLK 350, 2008 Acura TL
X3 kills the GLK in handling, you don't need numbers; just drive one! However the X3 looks like ****! Ergonomics and interior are horrible. We ended up getting my mom a GLK, I wanted an MDX... she said it was too big. Would never consider the current X3. Financing for the Q5 was just retarded, why would anyone actually go through with Audi financing?
Not sure if the X3 comes with run flats, but thats a deal breaker here. After learning how ****ty, expensive, loud, etc... run flats are with my moms 328i never again, not for a sedan or SUV. I think the X5 now comes with run flats, sorry I'll take the ML.
Not sure if the X3 comes with run flats, but thats a deal breaker here. After learning how ****ty, expensive, loud, etc... run flats are with my moms 328i never again, not for a sedan or SUV. I think the X5 now comes with run flats, sorry I'll take the ML.
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From: Los Angeles
2013 Infiniti G37 Coupe; 2011 GLK 350 w/ Premium 1, Multimedia & Sport Appearance; I LOVE IT!
My wife just didn't like the X3.
When she saw the GLK she said, "Now that's more like it!"
It's really my car but you know what they say: No happy wife? No happy life!
When she saw the GLK she said, "Now that's more like it!"
It's really my car but you know what they say: No happy wife? No happy life!
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From: Savannah, GA
2021 G63
all this discussion on handling???? it's an suv? i never considered handling when i bought mine. but i was driving an xterra at the time..not the best on road handling vehicle. do people really consider skidpad ratings a topic when car shopping? look at the new gx470 from lexus, it was put on the "do-not-buy list" because the can roll very easily, but people still buy em'. there are plenty here in houston.
anyways, the glk looks like a little suv, the x3 looks like a big hatchback, not a suv? to each his own..
the only thing i wish my benz had that bmw has, is covered scheduled maintenence and replacement of wear and tear items (bulbs, wipers, brake pads.etc)...bmw is better there because they cover all that..
anyways, the glk looks like a little suv, the x3 looks like a big hatchback, not a suv? to each his own..
the only thing i wish my benz had that bmw has, is covered scheduled maintenence and replacement of wear and tear items (bulbs, wipers, brake pads.etc)...bmw is better there because they cover all that..
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GLK
We liked the GLK much better than the current X3 in general.
At the limit, the X3 might handle better than the GLK, but I would doubt the skidpad numbers would be .88 to .77. I would more believe .78 or .81 for the X3. In almost any sort of normal driving I don't think the difference is really noticeable. I am not going to track this car, so it is not a differentiator.
We switched from an ML, and either the GLK or the X3 is much better in terms of handling. The ML is built on a truck chassis, and that shows. That was one of the factors in our decision to switch to the GLK. Not saying the ML is a bad car; just that I personally prefer car-type handling.
At the limit, the X3 might handle better than the GLK, but I would doubt the skidpad numbers would be .88 to .77. I would more believe .78 or .81 for the X3. In almost any sort of normal driving I don't think the difference is really noticeable. I am not going to track this car, so it is not a differentiator.
We switched from an ML, and either the GLK or the X3 is much better in terms of handling. The ML is built on a truck chassis, and that shows. That was one of the factors in our decision to switch to the GLK. Not saying the ML is a bad car; just that I personally prefer car-type handling.
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From: Vancouver, BC
2011 GLK350
Looking at the small SUV market was a big compromise ... my first thought was to go with a good wagon like the A4 Avant or the 328 Touring. Trouble with that is that the mfrs think that anyone looking at a wagon just wants a soft ride to the grocery store and back. At least in North America - there are some fantastic models in Europe that we can't get!
So yah, performance and handling were important. I knew I'd have to give up a bit compared to a solid sedan, but I looked very hard to make sure I didn't give up too much.
Kn.
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Joined: Jun 2010
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From: Miami, FL
E320 CDI, GLK 350
What's better than upgrading to a truck, that still handles like a sedan. X3 drives just like a 328i. You can push it so hard in the turns. GLK is sporty, you just don;t get the feedback in the steering wheel like a bmw.
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GLK
But the thing that kept us from getting a wagon was the lack of space in the 2nd row. I wanted a car that would seat 4 normal adults in reasonable comfort. When we went and looked at all of the ones on the market, I adjusted the driver's seat to a good position for me, and lo and behold, the back of the seat was almost touching the rear seat in every car we looked at. So that nixed all the wagons.
I would have gone for a wagon and a mild suspension upgrade and been happy except for the seating space issue.
While the Audi and Bimmer you mentioned would be great in a slightly lengthened version, this is exactly what the American car companies used to do very well. Chrysler had the right idea with the Hemi Magnum, but I got really turned off to them when almost everyone I saw going down the street was pimped out (and not in a good way).
GM should pony up some big bucks, get a superstar design chief (or un-retire Lutz), and build a Vette-powered Nomad wagon with a Vette-derived Magnetic Ride Control suspension. (I don't know if GM invented it, but I believe they had the first production system and hold a boatload of patents on it. This is the same sort of thing as seen in those Acura commercials they are running on TV now.)
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From: Vancouver, BC
2011 GLK350
grrr ...
Kn.
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GLK
I personally would have thought the North American market is there for the taking by a company that introduced a hot wagon, but the sales numbers seem to agree with Audi's stand.
Maybe he poor sales are because no one is offering a really great wagon. e.g.- Ford Flex is styled awkwardly and is missing driving excitement. It was a good idea, just poorly executed.
But the car companies' focus groups and market research as well as the media say we are asking for SUVs, so in any case that's what we get.
I looked at all the German wagons you mentioned, and saw the saw shortcomings you did. I also looked at the Jaguar X-type wagon a few years back, but it was a gussied-up Ford. At least a European Ford, but still a half-measure at best. And tiny.
No one wants to grow a set and release a great, non-half@$$ed wagon here.
Maybe he poor sales are because no one is offering a really great wagon. e.g.- Ford Flex is styled awkwardly and is missing driving excitement. It was a good idea, just poorly executed.
But the car companies' focus groups and market research as well as the media say we are asking for SUVs, so in any case that's what we get.
I looked at all the German wagons you mentioned, and saw the saw shortcomings you did. I also looked at the Jaguar X-type wagon a few years back, but it was a gussied-up Ford. At least a European Ford, but still a half-measure at best. And tiny.
No one wants to grow a set and release a great, non-half@$$ed wagon here.
Thread Starter
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2007 S 600 / '06 911 Porsche C4S cab
next version of GLK is a few years away...
Now that the updated, new version of the X3 is coming, will the next GLK keep pace? That'll be a few years away as MB usually runs a 7 yr. cycle.
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2008 R350 & 2008 C300
Just read a review of the all new redesigned X3. Guess its grown in size and is now considered a mid-sized suv. It's actually about the same size as the original X5. It looks quite well, except for those ugly Radio Shack looking speaker grills in the doors. I've owned a BMW 3 Series and it just never grew on me, the ride, the dealership, they all rubbed me the wrong way. But, to each their own as they say.
http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010...ps-up-in-size/
http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Conte...geGallery.aspx
http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010...ps-up-in-size/
http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Conte...geGallery.aspx
