Sleek, compact SUV

Small cars are becoming big business and the compact luxury SUV segment is expanding faster than my waistline after a big meal.

Many drivers want the rugged capability of an SUV without the cumbersome manoeuvring in city driving that often comes along with it.

Enter the Mercedes Benz GLK300 4matic Grand Edition, a model which aims to bridge the gap and deliver the drive you desire.

At first glance, the exterior looks a bit boxy but it is evened out with some seductive curves around the headlights and a nicely-rounded front grille which proudly displays the German marque’s iconic emblem.

It doesn’t command the same on-road authority as the Mercedes GL450 due to its compact size, but it’s a doddle to park and much easier to navigate in traffic than a full-sized SUV.

The interior is quintessentially Mercedes and by that I mean, luxurious and sleek. Everything is in its place and designed with convenience and comfort in mind.
 
I was cruising in a model which had cream leather semi automatic seats, an electric sunroof, cruise control, satellite navigation, parking sensors, automatic headlights DVD player and Bluetooth connectivity.

Most of the functions can be controlled via the steering wheel-mounted controls which means you never really need to take your hands off the beautifully smooth leather-wrapped wheel.

The drive is what you would expect from a Mercedes, practically faultless. The steering is fluid and responsive, the gear changes are seamless and there is virtually no noise inside the cabin.

Furthermore, thanks to the tiptronic gearbox you have the option of shifting to manual and using the incredibly fun paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel. I personally prefer to drive manual because it makes me feel more connected to the car and it was a delight to be connected to this one.

Another great feature is that you can also select your preferred driving mode. There’s normal, eco and sport, so you get the best of all three when you feel you need it.

Under the bonnet, this nippy little number is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 which has ample power to get you wherever you’re going on time and in style.

I loved nipping around town in this crossover because I found it so responsive and easy to drive. It is capable of darting in and out of traffic as well as delivering fantastic highway driving.

I have no doubt that it handles impeccably off-road too, but with a starting price of BD21,790, I didn’t dare risk finding out.

My only qualm with this model is the layout of the steering wheel column levers. Traditionally, these are placed on either side of the wheel but in the GLK300 they are placed directly on top of each other. If you’re anything like me, this frequently results in activating cruise control when you’re trying to indicate.

However, since many drivers in Bahrain appear to be unaware of where their indicators are anyway, I guess it’s not too much of a problem.

For more information, call Al Haddad Motors on 17785454.