GLK X204 vs XC60 I: which is better?
Mercedes-Benz GLK X204 (2008–2015) vs Volvo XC60 I (2008–2017): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mercedes-Benz GLK X204
Volvo XC60 ISpecifications
| Mercedes-Benz GLK X204 | Volvo XC60 I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2008–2015 | 2008–2017 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.0 V6 (GLK300) | 2.0 Turbo (T5) |
| Power, up to | 231 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque, up to | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 528 mm | 4 628 mm |
| Width | 1 840 mm | 1 891 mm |
| Height | 1 689 mm | 1 713 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 755 mm | 2 774 mm |
| Fuel tank | 66 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 42 425 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mercedes-Benz GLK X204
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M272 (V6): balance shaft and intermediate shaft gear wear on engines before 2008
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M272 (V6)): wear of balance shaft and intermediate shaft gears on pre-2008 engines; intake manifold flap leaks.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Volvo XC60 I
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 240 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 70 L
Cons
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- XC60 I — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: GLK X204 or XC60 I?
GLK X204: up to 231 hp, XC60 I: up to 240 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: GLK X204 — about 42 425 ₸, XC60 I — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.