I love the circular air vents, which, like in the SLK, open and close with a hefty thunk. The redesigned dashboard features a broad expanse of wood trim, while the GLK’s automatic gearshift adopts Mercedes’ electronic column shifter. I prefer last year’s mechanical console shifter, which had a more satisfying feel. The steering wheel, on the other hand, has classier accents and overlapping layers – much better than last year’s molded three-spoke design.
The front seats have exceptional travel range. Backseat legroom remains modest, and the seat sits low to the ground, with sunken door armrests to boot. The seat also lacks adjustments. Folding the seats is a cinch, and you can reach the seatback releases easily from the cargo area, which has a low load-in height.