Infiniti
QX70
Mercedes-Benz
GLK
Infiniti QX70 vs Mercedes-Benz GLK: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
The Infiniti QX70 offers power, while the Mercedes-Benz GLK excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the Infiniti QX70 if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Mercedes-Benz GLK if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
QX70
Overall
Strongly positive sentiment regarding driving dynamics, engine performance, and long-term reliability. The vehicle is consistently praised as a "370Z SUV," offering a powerful and engaging driving experience with excellent handling and strong acceleration, particularly with the V8 engine. The powertrain combination of the 3.7L V6 or 5.0L V8 with a conventional 7-speed automatic transmission is highlighted as a major strength, contributing to a reputation for being "bulletproof" and "extremely reliable" with proper maintenance.
Best version to buy
The V8-powered model (historically FX50, later QX70) is specifically recommended by several owners for its superior power (390 hp) and proven reliability, with one owner noting the trade-off in fuel economy from the V6 is "worthwhile" for the performance gain. For the V6 models, later years (2014-2017) are suggested as the best targets, as most minor issues from earlier generations were resolved.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor fuel economy: V6 models achieve 16-23 MPG, V8 models achieve 14-20 MPG, requires premium fuel. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Dated infotainment technology: system feels old, Bluetooth connectivity can be problematic with multiple phones, slow or non-intuitive interface. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Intermittent engine misfires (P0300 code): reported in multiple instances on higher-mileage V6 models, sometimes linked to faulty oxygen sensors or fuel trim issues. Frequency: recurrent.
GLK
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year, engine choice, and maintenance history. The GLK is praised by a loyal owner base for its distinctive, boxy styling, comfortable and quiet ride quality, solid build quality from the era, and the reliability of its naturally aspirated V6 gasoline engine (M272). Owners of the GLK 250 BlueTEC diesel frequently highlight exceptional fuel economy and towing capability.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or package. Feedback is primarily segmented by powertrain.
Known issues
- ⚠High and unpredictable repair costs: very frequent mentions of expensive repairs for electronic modules, steering column locks, suspension components, and emissions systems, often exceeding $1,000 USD per incident.
- ⚠Transmission problems: shuddering, fluid mixing with coolant due to radiator failure, CAN bus communication faults, loud thumping during shifts. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Electrical/electronic failures: steering column lock (ESL) failure preventing start, various control module communication errors, bizarre behavior after battery replacement (e.g., cooling fan running with key off). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti QX70 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Mercedes-Benz GLK, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Infiniti QX70 are a dealbreaker, the Mercedes-Benz GLK is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti QX70 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Infiniti QX70 than the Mercedes-Benz GLK. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti QX70 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti QX70 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK?
The Mercedes-Benz GLK is more fuel-efficient on paper: 8.1-8.2 L/100km combined versus 13.5 L/100km for the Infiniti QX70, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti QX70 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mercedes-Benz GLK than the Infiniti QX70. See the known issues comparison above.