The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204, a compact SUV that quickly established itself in the automotive market, underwent a significant facelift in the spring of 2012 after nearly four successful years. This refresh wasn’t just cosmetic; it involved substantial upgrades to the interior, powertrain, and safety features, alongside advancements in assistance systems and an expanded range of optional extras. The aim was to elevate the already popular GLK, making the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 even more appealing to discerning drivers.
The exterior of the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 received a refined touch, subtly aligning it with the contemporary Mercedes-Benz design language. The most noticeable change was the redesigned main headlamps, giving the front fascia a fresh and modern look. The radiator grille was updated with two louvres, a design cue borrowed from the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, further enhancing its sophisticated appearance. Even the roof rails were given a makeover, becoming lighter and more aesthetically pleasing. At the rear, new light units and a modified simulated underguard contributed to a more contemporary aesthetic. The exhaust system tailpipe trim elements were seamlessly integrated into the rear apron, adding a touch of elegance.
Standard and optional light-alloy wheels were also refreshed, with new designs in 17, 19, and 20-inch sizes becoming available. These wheels came in various paint finishes, including high-sheen options, allowing for greater personalization. For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the AMG Exterior Sports Package remained an option and was enhanced with AMG LED daytime running lights and newly designed 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a distinctive 5-spoke design. These exterior enhancements collectively gave the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 a more polished and contemporary road presence.
Stepping inside the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 facelift revealed more extensive modifications, particularly to the instrument panel. The dashboard was completely redesigned and now featured a large decorative element, available in aluminum or, optionally, in wood, adding a touch of premium質感 to the cabin. The air vents were also modified, and new, smaller trim elements further contributed to a fresher and more modern interior ambiance. An optional color display was integrated into the instrument cluster, providing enhanced driver information, while indirect ambient lighting created a more luxurious and inviting atmosphere within the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204.
A notable change in the interior layout was the relocation of the DIRECT SELECT selector lever for the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Moving it to the steering column tube was a deliberate nod to Mercedes-Benz tradition. This repositioning not only made the control element more ergonomically accessible but also freed up valuable space on the center console. This newly available space was then utilized to create a practical storage compartment, complete with a retractable cover for added convenience and discreet storage.
For those desiring a sportier interior, the optional Interior Sports Package offered black sports seats upholstered in ARTICO/DINAMICA materials, featuring contrasting color topstitching. This package also included a 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather, matching the gear lever, and brushed stainless steel sports pedals. These sporty accents further enhanced the dynamic appeal of the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 interior.
The infotainment systems in the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 facelift also received significant upgrades. The optional COMAND Online multimedia system was a major highlight, featuring hard-disc navigation, internet connectivity, and the convenient LINGUATRONIC voice control system. It also offered various interfaces for external devices, allowing for seamless integration of personal media. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Mercedes-Benz eCall emergency call system added a significant safety feature, automatically notifying emergency services in the event of a serious accident and transmitting crucial information such as the vehicle’s location and model. For entertainment on the go, COMAND Online could be optionally equipped with a TV tuner for DVB-T reception. Audiophiles could opt for the 12-speaker HARMAN KARDON® Logic 7® surround sound system, delivering exceptional audio quality within the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204.
Safety and driver assistance technologies were significantly enhanced in the revised Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204, benefiting from the latest Mercedes-Benz advancements. A comprehensive suite of features, available individually or in equipment packages, included ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection, a crucial safety feature for long drives. The PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system was also available, proactively preparing the vehicle for a potential collision. Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist enhanced driving safety by helping to prevent unintentional lane departures and collisions with vehicles in blind spots. DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, including BAS PLUS Brake Assist, provided adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking support.
The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 facelift also introduced a new electromechanically assisted Direct-Steer system, equipped as standard with the innovative STEER CONTROL steering assistance system. This system worked in conjunction with ADAPTIVE BRAKE®, ESP®, and 4ETS dynamic handling systems to provide subtle but perceptible steering impulses to guide the driver with precisely dosed counter-steering measures. This intelligent system activated when the vehicle sensors detected slightly unstable driving conditions that could be corrected with minor steering adjustments, enhancing driver control and stability.
An innovative feature particularly beneficial for off-road driving at night was the optional off-road lights. Available in conjunction with the Off-Road Engineering package and the Intelligent Light System ILS, these special lights provided exceptionally broad and bright illumination of the area immediately in front of the vehicle. When activated in the Off-Road drive program, the bi-xenon headlamp modules swiveled outwards by 6 degrees, simultaneously increasing light output, significantly improving visibility in challenging off-road conditions for the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204.
The engine range for the updated Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 focused on enhanced efficiency and environmental friendliness. The diesel engine lineup was expanded with two newly configured versions of the 2.2-liter four-cylinder unit from the OM 651 series. The GLK 220 BlueTEC 4MATIC and GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC models incorporated the advanced BlueTEC exhaust aftertreatment technology with SCR catalytic converter and AdBlue® injection developed by Mercedes-Benz. These engines, while maintaining the performance figures of their BlueEFFICIENCY predecessors, already met the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard, which was not yet in effect until 2015, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to environmental responsibility in the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204.
The 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine in the GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC remained the top-performing diesel option. This engine received a power upgrade to 195 kW/265 hp, a significant increase of 25 kW/34 hp over the previous model. It also boasted an impressive peak torque of 620 Nm, ensuring robust power delivery across the entire rev range. Paired with the new 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, Mercedes-Benz engineers successfully reduced the fuel consumption of the V6 engine by a remarkable 17%. According to the NEDC standard, fuel consumption averaged between 6.9 and 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers, with a corresponding reduction in CO₂ emissions, making the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 both powerful and more efficient.
The GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY continued as the sole petrol-engined model initially. Its engine had already benefited from the BlueDIRECT technology package the previous year, featuring third-generation direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors, along with multi-spark ignition. This 225 kW/306 hp six-cylinder engine delivered sports car-like performance while achieving average standard consumption figures of well under 9 liters of premium petrol per 100 kilometers, demonstrating a balance of power and efficiency in the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204.
Beyond the BlueTEC models, all engine versions available for the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 now incorporated the BlueEFFICIENCY efficiency-enhancing package. This comprehensive suite of measures included an ECO start/stop function, friction-reduced axle drives, the electromechanically assisted Direct-Steer system, tires with low rolling resistance, and the optimized 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, an ECO indicator in the instrument cluster provided real-time feedback to the driver, promoting a more energy-efficient driving style.
The range of optional extras for the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 was also expanded as part of the facelift, allowing for extensive customization. In addition to familiar exterior and interior packages and the Off-Road Engineering package, new options like an Exterior Chrome Package and a Parking Package were introduced. The Parking Package included a 360° camera and Active Parking Assist with automatic parking space entry and exit function, along with PARKTRONIC, significantly enhancing parking convenience. Individual options included front seat climate control with heated seats, seat ventilation, and perforated leather upholstery, as well as wood trim options in high-gloss black ash wood or high-gloss brown burr walnut wood to elevate the interior ambiance of the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204. The palette of available paint colors was also revised, offering 12 solid and metallic colors, including two special paint finishes: diamond white metallic BRIGHT and luzonite grey. Complementing the exterior choices, seven single-tone and three two-tone interior options were available.
Production of the updated Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 commenced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen in early June 2012. Gross list prices started at €36,235.50 for the rear-wheel-drive GLK 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and reached €50,099 for the top-of-the-range GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. The diesel-powered GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY was priced just under €50,000, at €49,742.
In the summer of 2013, the petrol engine range was expanded, and the BlueEFFICIENCY suffix was removed from model designations. The GLK 250 4MATIC became the first four-cylinder petrol engine variant, joining the previously sole six-cylinder option. This new, lightweight 2.0-liter M 274 engine featured exhaust gas turbochargers and direct petrol injection, resulting in both high power output and a broad torque curve. It produced 155 kW/211 hp and 350 Nm of torque, delivering strong performance with a top speed of 215 km/h and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds, while maintaining fuel consumption around 8 liters per 100 kilometers. The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 GLK 250 4MATIC was launched at a gross list price of €44,149.
Further expanding the petrol lineup, the rear-wheel-drive GLK 250 and GLK 200 models were introduced in the summer of 2014, shortly before the model series concluded. The GLK 250 shared the same engine as the 4MATIC version, while the GLK 200 featured a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine tuned to 135 kW/184 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Even with this slightly reduced power output, the GLK 200 still offered impressive performance with a top speed of 210 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.8 seconds. However, fuel economy was similar to the GLK 250. The GLK 200, the most affordable petrol Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204, was priced at €37,128, just slightly more than the corresponding diesel GLK 200 CDI.
The six-cylinder petrol models GLK 300 4MATIC and GLK 350 continued production for foreign markets, with the GLK 300 4MATIC having been discontinued in the domestic market in 2010 and the rear-wheel-drive GLK 350 never offered in Germany. Both models enjoyed continued success until the end of the GLK series production, which gradually phased out from mid-2015 to the end of the year.
At the end of its production run, the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 price range extended from €37,425.50 for the GLK 200 CDI to €52,360 for the GLK 350 4MATIC.
Sales figures for the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 models reflected the surging popularity of SUVs throughout its production lifespan. Between 2008 and 2015, approximately 725,000 units were produced in Bremen, with over 400,000 vehicles produced after the facelift alone. This substantial increase in sales after the facelift highlights the success of the updates and enhancements. Interestingly, this sales boost occurred despite the second production cycle being slightly shorter than the first. The export model, GLK 300 4MATIC, became the most popular variant post-facelift, with over 100,000 units produced. The petrol-engined GLK 250 4MATIC, introduced later in 2013, followed with almost 70,000 units in just two years. The most popular diesel model was the GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY (and later GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC), with nearly 65,000 units, along with the top-of-the-line GLK 350 4MATIC at around 60,000 vehicles.
The rear-wheel-drive petrol and diesel versions played a less significant role in overall sales. While the GLK 200 CDI and GLK 200 achieved low five-figure production numbers, the GLK 250 rear-wheel-drive model, launched in 2014, remained largely niche, with sales not even reaching 300 units by the end of production. Despite some model variations having lower sales, the overall success of the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204, particularly after its comprehensive facelift, solidified its position as a popular and desirable compact SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
