The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4MATIC stands as a testament to enduring automotive excellence, seamlessly blending luxury, performance, and practicality in a compact SUV package. Even years after its initial release, the GLK 350 4MATIC continues to be a sought-after vehicle for those who appreciate German engineering and a refined driving experience. This article delves into the standard and optional equipment that defines the GLK 350 4MATIC, highlighting why it remains a compelling choice in the pre-owned luxury SUV market.
Standard Features: Core Comfort, Convenience, and Performance
The GLK 350 4MATIC comes generously equipped right from the factory, ensuring a premium experience for both driver and passengers. Mercedes-Benz prioritized comfort and convenience in the GLK’s design, evident in its array of standard features.
Comfort and Convenience:
Inside the cabin, the GLK 350 4MATIC prioritizes a comfortable and user-friendly environment. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for both front occupants, while the dust filter maintains air purity within the vehicle. Automatic headlamps with a twilight sensor and locator lighting add a touch of modern convenience and safety, automatically adjusting to changing light conditions. The Bluetooth interface facilitates hands-free calling, promoting safer driving practices. The central controller with a 5″ color display serves as the command center for vehicle functions, complemented by a premium leather multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles for a sporty feel and integrated controls. Cruise control is standard for relaxed highway driving, and power windows with express up & down offer effortless operation. The MB-Tex upholstery, paired with burl walnut wood trim, provides a touch of classic Mercedes-Benz elegance. Practicality is addressed with front and rear cupholders, intermittent wipers, a rear window wiper and washer, and roof rails for added cargo-carrying capability. For entertainment, a single CD player with MP3 capability and a 6-speaker sound system with auxiliary input are included. Finally, 8-way power-adjustable front seats ensure optimal driving and passenger comfort, while privacy glass adds a layer of seclusion for rear occupants.
Performance and Handling:
At the heart of the GLK 350 4MATIC lies a potent 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 gasoline engine. This engine delivers a robust 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for confident acceleration and highway cruising. The ECO Start/Stop system enhances fuel efficiency in city driving, while the 7-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission with Touch Shift and Eco and Sport shift programs allows drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. Electromechanical steering provides precise and responsive handling, and the AGILITY CONTROL suspension system with a selective damping system balances comfort and control across various road surfaces. The GLK 350 4MATIC features an independent suspension system both front and rear, contributing to its refined ride quality. Braking is handled by substantial brake discs, 13″ at the front with dual-piston calipers and 11.8″ internally ventilated discs at the rear. The vehicle rides on 19″ 5-triple-spoke alloy wheels fitted with 235/50 R19 all-season tires. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system, with a 45/55 front-to-rear drive split, ensures confident traction in various weather conditions. A dual exhaust system with chrome exhaust tips adds a touch of sporty styling.
Safety and Security:
Mercedes-Benz places a high priority on safety, and the GLK 350 4MATIC is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. ATTENTION ASSIST monitors driver drowsiness and provides alerts to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™ (subscription required) offers connectivity and safety services. Adaptive brakes include HOLD, brake drying, hill start assist, and pre-charging functions, enhancing braking performance and control in diverse situations. An anti-theft alarm system with an engine immobilizer and SmartKey with a panic button remote provide security against theft. An advanced tire pressure monitoring system keeps drivers informed of tire conditions. The GLK 350 4MATIC is built with a high-strength steel body cage featuring crumple zones and a safety cell to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Integrated LED daytime running lamps and rear fog lamps enhance visibility. Rear door child safety locks and the LATCH system for child seats ensure child passenger safety. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with Trailer Stability Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), and 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4MATIC) work together to maintain vehicle stability and control. A comprehensive airbag system includes dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags, driver and passenger pelvic airbags, window curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, and a driver kneebag. NECK-PRO active front head restraints are designed to mitigate whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
Optional Packages: Tailoring Your GLK 350 4MATIC to Perfection
For buyers seeking an even more personalized and feature-rich GLK 350 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages. These packages grouped together popular features, offering both convenience and value.
Premium 1 Package ($3,450): This popular package elevates the GLK 350 4MATIC with a suite of desirable upgrades. It includes 4-way power lumbar support for enhanced seat comfort, a 115V AC power outlet in the cargo area for powering devices, an iPod/MP3 Media Interface for expanded audio connectivity, a garage door opener for added convenience, a digital compass display in the rearview mirror, auto-dimming driver-side and rearview mirrors, driver’s seat memory & power steering column for personalized settings, a power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof for an open and airy cabin feel, SiriusXM Satellite Radio for a wide range of audio entertainment, and a power liftgate for effortless cargo access.
Leather Package ($2,100) (Requires Premium 1 Package): Building upon the Premium 1 Package, the Leather Package adds luxurious full leather upholstery, passenger seat memory, comfort headrests, and interior ambient lighting, further enhancing the cabin’s premium ambiance.
Lighting Package ($1,290): This package focuses on enhancing visibility and style with headlamp cleaning system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, and LED daytime running lamps integrated into the AMG styling.
AMG Styling Package ($1,990): For a sportier aesthetic, the AMG Styling Package includes sport bodystyling, LED daytime running lamps (also included in Lighting Package), aluminum roof rails, and striking 20” AMG Himalaya Grey double-spoke wheels.
Appearance Package ($990): The Appearance Package offers visual upgrades with 20” 5-spoke wheels and aluminum roof rails.
Multimedia Package ($2,790) (Requires Premium 1 Package): This package integrates advanced infotainment features, including a rearview camera for enhanced parking visibility and the COMAND System w/ Hard-Drive Navigation for seamless route guidance.
Lane Tracking Package ($850): Enhancing driver awareness, the Lane Tracking Package includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, helping to prevent lane departure accidents.
Driver Assistance Package ($2,950): This comprehensive safety package incorporates advanced driver assistance systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Brake Assist Plus, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, providing a significant step towards semi-autonomous driving.
Standalone Options: Further Personalizing Your Ride
Beyond packages, GLK 350 4MATIC buyers could also select individual standalone options to further customize their vehicles. These included SiriusXM Satellite Radio ($460) for those who didn’t opt for the Premium 1 Package, a premium harman/kardon sound system ($810) for audiophiles, PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist ($970) for easier parking maneuvers, a trailer hitch ($550) for towing needs, brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs ($670) for enhanced side step and visual appeal, heated front seats ($750) for cold-weather comfort, KEYLESS-GO ($650) for keyless entry and ignition, and an iPod/MP3 Media Interface ($310) for standalone media connectivity.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4MATIC
The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4MATIC, with its blend of standard luxury, robust performance, available 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and a wide array of optional features and packages, remains a compelling choice in the pre-owned luxury SUV market. Its timeless design, combined with German engineering and Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for quality, ensures that the GLK 350 4MATIC continues to offer a rewarding ownership experience. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, or advanced technology, the GLK 350 4MATIC provides a solid foundation that can be further tailored to individual preferences through its various optional packages and standalone features. For those seeking a capable and luxurious SUV with lasting value, the Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 4MATIC deserves serious consideration.
