The 2010 Mercedes GLK 350: Is it Better Than the Audi Q5?

Engine: (3.5 liter V6 engine-268 horsepower/258 lb. feet of torque)

Fuel Economy: (16 city/22 highway)

Although this is one of the newest models in their ever growing flotilla of niche automobiles, the Mercedes GLK 350 has already become one of the Stuttgart manufacturer's worldwide best-sellers. Although part of this may be down to the fact that it has one of the lowest base prices of any Mercedes model, you must also give part of the credit to the very attractive and rugged styling. At least there's one thing that can't be denied. It looks a heck of a lot better than the porpoise-like R-Class.

While you might think that the Mercedes GLK looks like a bit of a bargain that is obviously before you perused the insanely long options list. Come on Mercedes, Bluetooth and iPod integration are standard on some $13,000 Kia models. It's time to make a few more items standard. Or do just poor people expect things to come standard?

Other optional extras include push-button start, 4-Matic All Wheel Drive (standard GLKs are rear wheel drive), the COMAND navigation system, heated front seats, full leather seats (again, optional?) and Parktronic rear parking sensors just in case you thought you bought a Suburban. At least Mercedes doesn't skimp on the standard technology and safety features as you get a 7-speed automatic, 6 airbags, dual zone climate control, adaptive braking and 8 way power driver and passenger seats all with the basic package.

Inside the GLK the cabin is a bit narrow but the seats and trim are sturdy and should be highly recognizable to C-class drivers. It may not be the most exciting design but it looks built to last. What it lacks is any of the style or tactility of the cabin in the class leading Audi Q5.

The 268 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 is another tried and true time tested Mercedes item that should at the very least be very reliable. As is always the case with non-AMG Mercedes throttle tip-in can be a bit lethargic but once up to speed this lux-ute has plenty of pep for overtaking and other such sundry freeway heroics. If you are prone to such things, that is.

There is always an inherent ridiculousness to consider if you are in the market for a compact luxury crossover like the GLK 350. If you really need all of the space and utility do you really want to spend all that money on fancy wood trim, leather and stuff that could get broken when you haul a load of junk to the dump?

And besides, who really wants to drive a Mercedes to the dump? Or anywhere off-road for that matter? To my eyes, the best Mercedes will always be a sedan or convertible Mercedes. The rest are just niche fillers. And I am sorry to say, that is all that the GLK 350 is. A niche filler.