Mercedes-Benz debuts GLK-Class at Auto China 2008

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Mercedes-Benz debuts GLK-Class at Auto China 2008

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The GLK-Class also heralds further improvements in pedestrian protection. On the one hand, Mercedes remains true to the philosophy that the best accidents are the ones that do not happen at all. This is why standard equipment for all GLK models includes Brake Assist (BAS), which shortens the braking distance significantly, especially during panic braking, so as to help prevent accidents or at the very least mitigate their consequences. In addition, the front section incorporates precisely defined crumple space between the body and the major assemblies beneath, allowing the bonnet to yield considerably if hit by a pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist. Together with the specially designed front bumpers and the softer foam of the integrated bumper impact absorbers, these measures afford pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists an extremely high degree of protection.

Relaxed travel in classic Mercedes style

The distinctive looks of the body are seamlessly continued inside the GLK-Class. On the one hand, the contemporary treatment of the surfaces brings the latest in Mercedes design to the interior. On the other hand, the GLK offers a high-quality and comfortable interior with impressive materials and precise detailing. Occupants enjoy a profound sense of wellbeing when on board - a hallmark of all Mercedes vehicles. The dashboard is the dominant feature here, visually extending into the door panels to lend additional width to the generously dimensioned interior.

Further eye-catching features include an elegant trim level highlighted by a fabric that matches the seat upholstery, specified as standard. Alternatively, GLK customers can opt for various wood or aluminium highlights here and in the door operating panels at the front and rear. The upper section of the dashboard encompasses the instrument cluster and the static central display. Meanwhile the driver's armrest with an integral stowage compartment and the controller for the optional COMAND APS infotainment system are located in ergonomically ideal positions between the front seats. Control of the individual menus is intuitive, following the familiar and well-proven control logic used in the S-Class. Additional shortcut buttons make it easier to access the most important main functions.

In terms of spaciousness, the GLK matches vehicles that are much bigger on the outside. The interior architects at the MTC have succeeded in achieving seating-comfort dimensions on a par with those of the much larger M-Class – for example the distance between the heel reference point and the seat reference point in the GLK-Class is 318 mm (front) and 346 mm (rear). Front and rear headroom are also comparable at 1010 mm and 1012 mm respectively. The boot, including an additional compartment beneath the load compartment floor, holds at least 450 litres. When the 1/3:2/3-split rear seats are folded forwards, the boot capacity increases to max. 1550 litres, the load compartment length to 1674 mm.

Complete range of standard equipment, complementary equipment packages

The level of equipment available for the GLK-Class is at premium-segment standard, including details normally only to be found in the higher vehicle categories. Standard-fit comfort-enhancing features include the THERMATIC 2-zone automatic climate control system, a steering column adjustable for height and reach, front seats with electrically adjustable height and backrest angle, including seat inclination adjustment, manual lumbar support with 2-way adjustment for the driver's seat and the Audio 20 sound system, including a radio/CD combination with integral Bluetooth interface for mobile phones, a microphone for the hands-free system and a central 5-inch colour display. Further features include power windows all round and cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC.

The GLK-Class model range is equipped to an exceptionally high standard. There are also two equipment packages to choose from, allowing customers to tailor the GLK to their own requirements. Among other things, the exterior sports package consists of 19-inch 7-spoke light-alloy wheels, stiffer sports suspension lowered by 20 millimetres and a chrome package with roof rails in aluminium. Alternatively, customers can select the off-road styling package, featuring 17-inch light-alloy wheels, robust off-road pads and simulated underguards on the front and rear apron as well as the chrome package as standard. The only difference is that this version has matt black roof rails, in keeping with the off-road look.

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