There is only one compelling reason to consider this compact SUV; your neighbors and friends will be impressed by your membership in the three-pointed star club.
Costing nearly $50,000, this is not a value-based product. It doesn't deliver anything remarkable in terms of performance, utility, or riding comfort. Only by carefully watching speed and throttle pressure will you ever visit the 20-mpg realm. And don't forget you'll be fueling up at the premium pump.
My driving-joy monitor never so much as flickered during my brief exposure to this truckette. If you relish speed, handling, and agility, stick with cars.
I do lean in favor of the GLK's aesthetics. It wears its creases well and looks fresher than the other flare-fendered rolling refrigerators in the MB lineup. This is, after all, a junior leaguer and Mercedes needs a different look to appeal to younger buyers taking their second or third step up the luxury ladder. Designers hit that nail on the head.
My personal attitude towards any SUV is that virtue is inversely proportional to size. My dogs ride contentedly in cars so my thoughts never wander in the 'gotta have an SUV' realm. But that's me. If your dog deserves a star ship and you've got neighbors to astound, there are GLKs ready and anxious to serve your needs.
Don Sherman, Technical Editor ...next page >>