The Mercedes-Benz GLK crossover will receive a “significant” face lift for the 2013 model year, U.S. president Steve Cannon tells us. We should see major changes to the front fascia—beyond just headlights and bumpers—as well as big upgrades to the interior. The interior improvements made to the C-class during the past year are probably a good indication of how Mercedes can elevate the GLK’s plastic paradise to a more premium level.
Expect the GLK350 to get the latest iteration of Benz’s 3.5-liter V-6, which should boost output from today’s 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to 302 and 273, respectively. The revised engine served duty this year in the C- and E-classes, among other Benz models. For diesel enthusiasts, the GLK refresh brings good news in the form of a four-cylinder diesel. The engine we’ll see here displaces 2.1 liters; we’ll probably get the most powerful version offered in Europe, which has 204 hp and 369 lb-ft. We’ve heard, too, that Mercedes is expecting the diesel GLK to score an EPA highway fuel-economy rating in the upper 30s.
The 2.1-liter diesel four also will power a version of the next-gen C-class, which we expect to debut in about two years. Mercedes-Benz hopes to sell eight diesel models in the U.S. by the end of 2014. As of today, the count sits at five: S350, ML350, GL350, R350, and E350. In addition to the GLK- and C-classes, we expect a diesel to be offered in an upcoming front-drive Benz.
Despite not being a standout in any regard, the GLK sells well, and Benz’s number crunchers say 65 percent of its buyers are new to the Mercedes brand. Updated duds and revised engines should help strengthen its position. Expect the refreshed GLK and its optional diesel to arrive at dealers this summer.
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