Segment:
Compact Luxury SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking premium features, performance, and brand prestige in a versatile SUV package
Key Competitors:
BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus RX
Design Philosophy:
Offered a boxy, distinctive styling that differentiated it from more rounded competitors, emphasizing practicality and a rugged aesthetic.
Powertrain Options:
Available with refined Mercedes-Benz gasoline and diesel engines, often paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Interior Appointments:
Typical Mercedes-Benz quality with premium materials and advanced technology for its era.
Powertrain Management:
Operation of engine, transmission, and related systems
Chassis Systems:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system
Electrical Systems:
Instrument cluster, lighting, power features, convenience electronics
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, audio system, COMAND infotainment, climate control, seat adjustments
Safety Restraint Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seat belts, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH)
Pre Driving Checks:
Fluid level checks, tire pressure inspection, dashboard warning light identification
Driving Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, parking procedures, use of cruise control
Emergency Procedures:
Breakdown assistance, tire change, jump starting, hazard warning
Appearance And Care:
Exterior cleaning, interior cleaning, paint care, upholstery care
Basic Maintenance:
Wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement (exterior/interior)
Diagnostic Scope:
Basic diagnostic information and interpretation of dashboard warning indicators
Repair Scope:
Focus on user-level maintenance and operation, not comprehensive mechanical repair
Engine Code:
M272 (GLK350)
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
92.9 mm x 86.0 mm
Displacement:
3498 cc (3.5 Liters)
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower At Rpm:
268 hp @ 6000 RPM
Torque At Rpm:
258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Other Engine Option:
GLK280/GLK300 (3.0L V6), GLK320 CDI (3.0L V6 Diesel) - market dependent
NHTSA Rating:
Not specifically rated for 2011, but sibling models generally performed well in IIHS/NHTSA tests.
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, side window curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH system
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated radio, CD/DVD player, and optional navigation.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features may include Parktronic parking assist, rearview camera, and adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC).
Lighting Technology:
Halogen projector headlamps, optional bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions (indicated by 'Service A' or 'Service B').
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to 'Service B' which includes cabin filter, brake fluid, and potentially other checks/replacements.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/coolant meeting MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB-Approval 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (check specific model variants)
Common Concerns:
Potential for oil cooler leaks, ignition coil failures, and sometimes AC compressor issues. Regular maintenance is key to longevity.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety.
Introduction Year:
Introduced for the 2009 model year.
Generation Details:
First generation (X204), based on the M-Class platform but with a more compact and upright design.
Production Plant:
Bremen, Germany
