The Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, produced from June 2012 to June 2015, represented a compelling entry point into the luxury compact SUV segment. Part of the X204 GLK facelift generation, this variant combined a fuel-efficient diesel engine with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and the smooth-shifting 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GLK lineup, it aimed to balance performance, economy, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a practical yet refined SUV.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLK |
| Generation | GLK (X204, facelift 2012) |
| Type | GLK 250 BlueTEC (204 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | June, 2012 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7-7.5 l/100 km (33.6 – 31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5-5.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.5 l/100 km (38.6 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1600-1800 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1600-1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.912 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 27.5 l (7.26 US gal | 6.05 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4536 mm (178.58 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2755 mm (108.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Rear track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Front overhang | 824 mm (32.44 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 957 mm (37.68 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 188 mm (7.4 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.65 m (38.22 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLK 250 BlueTEC utilized the OM 651.912 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, known for its robust construction and efficiency. It featured a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A twin-turbocharger setup, incorporating a smaller turbo for immediate response and a larger turbo for peak power, minimized turbo lag and provided a broad torque curve. The engine also incorporated an intercooler to further enhance performance by cooling the intake air. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 204 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the GLK 250 BlueTEC provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.6 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was programmed for comfort and efficiency, resulting in relatively relaxed gear changes. Compared to the more powerful GLK 350, the 250 BlueTEC offered a more subdued driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright speed. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the available six-speed manual transmission found in some European markets. The broad torque band, however, made it a capable performer for everyday driving and highway cruising, providing ample power for overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC typically came standard with features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and the COMAND infotainment system with a 5.8-inch display screen. Safety features included ABS, ESP, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, navigation, and parking assist features. The interior design was generally functional and well-built, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most options available as standalone additions rather than packaged into distinct tiers.
Chassis & Braking
The GLK 250 BlueTEC featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were standard, enhancing safety and control. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system operated full-time, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed to maximize traction in various driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLK 250 BlueTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. It offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered competitors, particularly for buyers prioritizing economy. Compared to the GLK 350, the 250 BlueTEC offered significantly better fuel economy – averaging around 38.6 mpg combined – but at the expense of performance. The diesel engine also produced more torque at lower RPMs, making it more suitable for towing and off-road driving. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more expensive to maintain than their gasoline counterparts due to the complexity of the fuel injection system and emissions control equipment.
Legacy
The GLK 250 BlueTEC, and the X204 GLK generation as a whole, laid the groundwork for the current Mercedes-Benz GLC. The OM 651 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and examples continue to be found on the used car market today. While the diesel emissions scandal has somewhat impacted the resale value of diesel vehicles, well-maintained GLK 250 BlueTECs remain a viable option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable luxury SUV. The combination of all-wheel drive, a smooth automatic transmission, and a relatively economical diesel engine continues to appeal to a segment of the market seeking a practical and refined vehicle.
