Video: 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK

om There's been an explosion of new luxury crossovers, like the Audi Q5, and the Volvo XC60, and now this model here, which is the Mercedes Benz GLK-Class. So, what does the GLK have to offer? Well, it has your traditional Mercedes luxury cues in comfort, and it also is available with a number of high tech features that make the price rise rapidly from a base of about $34,000. A number of the new, small luxury crossovers coming to market are taking more of a streamline, sleek approach with their styling, but Mercedes bucks that trend with the GLK, which has an upright, kind of boxy appearance that's reminiscent of the larger GL-Class, and that might help it stand out in the market. This model here has some optional features, like these aluminum roof rails here, and these 20 inch wheels. Those are both part of the optional appearance package. The GLK is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 gas engine that makes 268 horse power and teams with a seven speed automatic transmission, that includes a clutchless manual mode for driver-controlled gear changes. Rear-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive models are offered, and in a smaller vehicle, like the GLK, this power train offers enough performance to move at a healthy clip. It also gives it a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The GLKs cabin design draws on design themes seen in the company's compact C-class, and you can see the connection from the instruments to the center control area. One of the pluses of the GLK are these comfortable, front bucket seats. And, also thanks to its boxier shape, visibility from the drivers seat's pretty good, too. Also aiding visibility is an optional back-up camera that comes in the electronics-laden, multi-media package. Now, other features of the multi-media package include the command control system, navigation system, Harman Kardon audio, and the ability to play DVD movies on this seven inch dash screen. Backseat accommodations in the GLK are a little snug for an all passengers, but that's to be expected in a small, luxury crossover segment. That said, it feels a little smaller than the back of the XC60. My legs are touching the back of the front seats. The back rest, though, is nicely reclined, and it's easy to fold down. So, if you need to expand cargo area it folds flat. I mentioned earlier that the GLK starts at about $34,000. But the model you see here has things like a panoramic moon roof, dual screen backseat entertainment system, and a power liftgate that make the price top $50,000. And that's a long way from the low 30s, but it's probably what you're going to be finding at your local dealership. <v Narrator>For additional information on this car, or any other, go to cars.com, and our blog, KickingTires.