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Merc tweaks 620Nm GLK

With a new design, tweaked engines and a host of features, the new generation of the GLK hopes to retains its crown as SUV royalty.

Originally designed back in 1979 as a vehicle for off-road use, the G-Class is the longest-serving model series from Mercedes-Benz and has been in production for 33 years.

The 150kW/500Nm GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC boasts one of the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engines. This GLK model is rather frugal for its size with a fuel consumption of 6.1 to 6.5-litres/100km. The GLK 220 BlueTEC 4MATIC model is capable of 125kW/400Nm.

REDESIGNED SUV

The two rear-wheel drive models, the 105kW/350NM 200 CDI BlueEfficiency and  125kW/400Nm 220 CDI BlueEfficiency, are mated to a six-speed manual. Both models have a claimed fuel consumption of 5.6-litres/100km. The top performer among the diesel models is the 195kW/620Nm 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEfficiency.

The GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEfficiency petrol-engine is capable of 225kW and 270Nm. The 4Matic models are mated to the German automaker's 7G-Tronic auto transmission as well as all-wheel drive capability.

All models have start/stop functionality as standard.

Joachim Schmidt, Mercedes-Benz sales and marketing said: "In the GLK we have a dynamic lifestyle SUV offering a winning combination of intelligent technology and character in abundance.

"It will further bolster our SUV portfolio, making a vital contribution to Mercedes-Benz's global growth in this market segment," he said.

There is no longer any differentiation between different types of bumpers with specific on or off-road packages. All models offer new LED daytime driving lights in chrome as standard. The roof rails have also been redesigned.

The rear bumper lends a bold, sporty character to the GLK. The rear of the SUV now sports chrome-plated tailpipe trims as standard. The rear lights have undergone a complete revamp in terms of both appearance and functions and now features a licence plate LED lamp.

As part of the model facelift, the designers have also developed new wheels in size 17-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch, which are available in various paint finishes. An aerodynamically optimised 17-inch wheel is available for the first time.

AMG SPORTS PACKAGE

Tuning arm AMG has produced an exterior sports package for the GLK. These additions include an AMG front and rear apron, new radiator grille, AMG LED daytime lights, 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels and a sporty suspension setup. The features are based on the extended Exterior Chrome package.

The Interior Sports package which was available for the predecessor model has been upgraded with sports seats. Other components are the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather, black leather sports seats, door panels and shift lever. The sports package also offers stainless steel sports pedals.

The GLK is fitted with the Audio 20 CD radio (Who still uses CDs?), as standard. Other additions to the interior include Apple iPad integration, but it will be some time - if at all - if the revised model reaches South Africa.

The GLK borrows driver assistance systems from its S and E-Class sibling. These are available as optional extras or as packages.

Some of the features include drowsiness detection system and parking assist with automatic reverse parking. For the first time from Mercedes-Benz, the GLK features a 360° camera.

Check the GL-Class models available in South Africa now.
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