Mercedes-Benz gives GLK-class a diesel (pictures)

The GLK-class was launched as a completely new model from Mercedes-Benz just a couple of years ago. The 2013 model represents an update and adds a diesel engine option to the existing gasoline V-6 powerplant.

The GLK250, as the diesel variant is called, is a five-passenger small SUV. All-wheel-drive is optional on the gasoline version, but comes standard with the diesel.

Mercedes-Benz gives the GLK250 a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, which uses twin turbos to produce 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It also gets an average fuel economy in the mid-30s.

Cargo space is smaller than that of the larger M-class, but the rear seats fold down, allowing some versatility.

Underneath the cargo floor is this little smuggler's compartment.

The GLK250 isn't as luxurious as top Mercedes-Benz models, but it still feels very well built and comfortable.

The rear seats are nicely contoured to enhance comfort.

All of the tech features, including navigation, are optional.

The back-up camera is very crisp, and includes useful trajectory lines.

The navigation system uses very readable maps and shines when it comes to route guidance.

Naturally, the navigation system includes traffic data so as to steer you around traffic jams.

The Mercedes-Benz Apps feature would be very good, except for the fact that it takes far too long to load.

Once you finally bring up Yelp, you can search the surrounding area for restaurants.

Mercedes-Benz Apps even includes Google Street View, so you can see your destination.

The phone system includes contact list integration.

As a bit of a throwback, Mercedes-Benz includes a 30-pin iOS device connector. You will need an adapter to use it with an iPhone 5.

The stereo includes a good number of audio sources, and better yet, includes them all in a single list rather than separating radio and media, as other brands do.

HD radio comes standard.

Using an iOS device or USB drive, the stereo interface shows a complete music library.

One cool way to find music is this cover flow interface.