It isn't often that we describe a Mercedes-Benz vehicle as a "steal." Mercedes-Benz products frequently offer good value, especially when one factors resale into the equation, but a below-market, almost-too-good-to-be-true purchase? No, not really. But now we have driven the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC, a vehicle we think legitimately deserves that kind of description. While many consumers have been willing to spend premium prices to obtain the longevity, range and fuel economy of a diesel engine, Mercedes-Benz is essentially throwing all those advantages in for free. But those features are just the beginning of the story. The new engine also features an innovative two-stage turbocharger system that uses a small high-pressure turbocharger and a large low-pressure turbocharger that are connected in series. What we felt on the road was high torque, even relatively low in the rev range, virtually no hint of turbo lag and quick throttle response. In fact, we figure if we put most upscale empty-nesters behind the wheel of the GLK250 BlueTEC, they wouldn't detect that the sprightly little crossover was powered by a diesel. Instead, they would simply appreciate the GLK BlueTEC's broad torque curve that makes it an easy-going partner for both around-town excursions and long-distance cruising. Those who might wonder about the environmental effects of driving a diesel can rest assured that the state-of-the-art "clean diesel" engine in the GLK250 BlueTEC meets the exhaust emission regulations of all 50 states. This means it is as "clean" as a current gasoline-fueled engine thanks to the use of AdBlue injection, a water-based urea solution that helps convert smog-causing nitrous oxides into nitrogen and water. The AdBlue tank need to be refilled according to routine vehicle maintenance schedules. The bottom line on the new GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is extra value.

If you鈥檙e an automotive enthusiast, then small luxury crossovers probably don鈥檛 light your candle. Still, the refreshed-for-2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK deserves your attention. Never a champion in the EPA fuel-economy department, the Mercedes-Benz GLK gets two significant upgrades in its engine bay for the 2013 model year. First, the GLK250 BlueTec is new to the lineup. Its 2.1-liter diesel four provides 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The rollout of more four-cylinder diesels in the U.S. 鈥檙e pretty psyched. And let鈥檚 be clear: Benz isn鈥檛 bringing its four-cylinder diesel here for just one car. Investing in emissions and crash compliance means you鈥檒l see the diesel four in the next-gen C-class鈥攁 mechanical cousin to the GLK鈥攁mong other vehicles. For folks who prefer gasoline power, the GLK350 is upgraded with the latest generation of Benz鈥檚 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Now featuring direct injection, the GLK350鈥檚 engine is good for 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The older V-6 made just 268 hp and 258 lb-ft.

The GLK350 also picks up an engine stop/start system, a feature heretofore exclusive to Mercedes鈥?hybrid models and a few AMG cars. As was the case in the past, the GLK350 comes only with a seven-speed automatic gearbox but can be ordered with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The chunky styling that distinguished the last GLK has now been softened, with a curvy new fascia setting a more graceful tone. This restyled schnoz also brings the GLK鈥檚 look in line with the appearance of other new Mercedes models, such as the M-class crossover. Not shockingly, the GLK gets this decade鈥檚 must-have automotive fashion accessory: LED daytime running lights. An optional package will upgrade the headlamps to the lighting equivalent of a NASA computer system, bringing an active cornering function, headlight washers, and automatic high beams that dim when cars or pedestrians are detected ahead. Benz鈥檚 boffins also restyled the GLK鈥檚 back end.

The new taillights are now solid red, rather than the red-and-white sandwich of last year鈥檚 car. The lower fascia also is remodeled, with a chrome skidplate-type substance and integrated exhaust outlets. For more style, an exterior AMG Styling package remains on the options sheet; it adds 20-inch AMG wheels, different LED running lights, aluminum roof rails, and tweaked fascias. In contrast with the gently massaged exterior, the interior of the GLK was hit harder by the metaphorical wrecking ball. A stylish new dashboard has been installed, with two circular vents in the center and a sweep of metal or wood spanning its width. A 5.8-inch display sits atop the center stack, while upgrading to the Multimedia package nets a seven-inch screen to display the latest iteration of Benz鈥檚 COMAND infotainment system. The screen in the IP has been upgraded to color, too. The dash looks nicer than the boxy, plasticky piece in the pre-refresh GLK, and should represent the same leap forward in material quality we saw in last year鈥檚 update to the cabin of the C-class.

GLK fanatics may also notice that the console-mounted shifter is gone, replaced by a column-mounted gear selector. This, in turn, clears up some space on the center tunnel. A set of steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles are now standard. As was the case when Mercedes updated the C- and E-classes last year, the GLK can now be fitted with an entire warehouse of gadgets and safety features. Standard kit includes nine airbags鈥攊ncluding driver and passenger pelvic airbags鈥攁ctive front head restraints, and Benz鈥檚 Attention Assist system, which purports to tell drivers that they鈥檙e tired and should stop driving. Buyers can pay extra for a power tilt/telescoping steering column, navigation, a rearview camera, a power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof, an automated parking system, leather upholstery, and keyless start. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and radar cruise control are available, as well. All of the toys and safety tech not only help Mercedes-Benz distinguish its entry-level ute from feature-packed competitors sold by non-luxury brands, but they also will bring the GLK鈥檚 price into the could-have-had-a-condo range. 50K. We just hope that Benz positions the diesel GLK250 as it did the diesel GL-class鈥攁s the entry-level model.