Mercedes GLK 220 CDI 170 CV AMG, road test (Engine, performance, handling and consumption)

The Mercedes GLK has already had its successor announced; it won’t be long before a new generation arrives, but it still remains a very interesting SUV. It was updated with some styling changes in 2012, and we tested one of the most sensible versions.

Specifically, we got behind the wheel of the Mercedes GLK 220 CDI with 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox and 4×2 drive. I say it is one of the most sensible versions because all-wheel drive is rarely necessary in this type of car, and this 170 CV version offers more than enough power.

Engine and performance

The engine used by this GLK is the well-known 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel found in the middle of the German manufacturer’s range, although updated. It is an engine with plenty of strength from low revs, with 400 Nm of torque available from 1,400 rpm.

On the other side of the coin is its noisiness, which could be better since it sounds quite like a diesel, although fortunately the interior soundproofing is excellent. Besides strength, power delivery is very linear: it pulls progressively from 1,400 up to almost 4,800 rpm.

That said, as the entry-level engine we would not consider the 200 CDI, because its 143 CV are somewhat marginal for moving a car weighing 1,825 kg, with 20″ wheels and considerable dimensions. By contrast, the 170 CV engine we tested is enough to move the GLK with ease.

The gearbox is the 7G-Tronic seven-speed. It is not a dual-clutch unit, but it works correctly, shifting smoothly and holding gears well. It has paddle shifters and Sport, ECO and manual modes. Please note that our unit does not have all-wheel drive; it is 4×2, driving the rear wheels.

Handling

We get behind the wheel of the GLK and the first thing we notice is its comfort: as soon as the engine starts, despite the engine noise, nothing can be heard inside. The insulation is sublime.

Once on the move, it is worth noting that our unit is equipped with the AMG Pack, which includes the sport suspension, low-profile 20-inch wheels and sporty styling. Even so, comfort on board is high, and even over potholes or poor road surfaces the suspension keeps its comfort.

Dynamically, despite being an SUV, it does not roll much; it is agile with a composed response. That said, with this engine the response is not excessively sporty either. Behind the wheel there are no major differences from a saloon car. The AMG Pack is interesting for those who want an SUV with good road manners and that sporty look, even though under the bonnet there is a diesel engine.

The steering is rather firm and has good feel. Meanwhile, the brakes perform their function correctly.

Consumption of the Mercedes GLK 220 CDI

On our usual route to Galicia from Madrid, consumption on the motorway at legal speeds was 6.5 litres per 100 km. With smaller wheels the figure would probably drop.

On country roads consumption ranges from 6.5 litres per 100 km at best to the 7.5 litres per 100 km combined figure we recorded during the test. In town the figure rises to 8.5-9 litres per 100 km, which is what we get on our usual route.

In the second part of the test we will analyse the exterior design of the Mercedes GLK, completely renewed in 2012, as well as the interior, space and boot.

Photos | R. Rodriguez