2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is a carryover with no major changes. It keeps the same two-trim lineup, V6 powertrain, styling, safety equipment, and cabin technology as the 2011 model.
About the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
1st generation (2010-2015 U.S. market), pre-refresh year; third U.S. model year before the 2013 facelift.
Mercedes-Benz positions the GLK as a compact luxury SUV with the road manners of one of its sport sedans. The pitch centers on upright SUV usefulness, a strong V6, and a solid, tailored cabin rather than maximum cargo room or soft-riding isolation. Against rivals, the GLK leans into boxy styling, a planted feel, and traditional Mercedes hardware, especially for shoppers who want a smaller SUV that still feels substantial and premium.
The 2012 GLK-Class is a compact luxury SUV with a solid cabin and road-focused handling. The rear-wheel-drive GLK 350 emphasizes sedan-like road manners, while the GLK 350 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive for better traction in poor weather. Both use a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 and seven-speed automatic, with Bluetooth, power front seats, and dual-zone climate control.
2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd w/Touch Shft |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 268 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 54.7 cu-ft | 54.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.1 in | 35.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class?
Nothing significant changed for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class. Its trims, V6 engine, transmission, styling, safety equipment, and cabin technology carried over from 2011.
Was the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class redesigned?
No, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was not redesigned or refreshed. It is a pre-refresh model from the first generation and retains the exterior and interior design used for 2011.
What is the difference between the 2012 GLK 350 and GLK 350 4MATIC?
The drivetrain is the main difference: the 2012 GLK 350 has rear-wheel drive, while the GLK 350 4MATIC has all-wheel drive. Both use the same 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 and seven-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
No, the 2012 GLK-Class is not meaningfully different from the 2011 model. Because the core mechanicals and features carry over, a used buyer should focus more on condition, maintenance history, mileage, and drivetrain.