Mercedes Benz GLA

What is good about Mercedes GLA?

Posted on October 24, 2023November 29, 2023 by Alex

24
Oct

The automotive world is no stranger to the concept of platform-sharing, and Mercedes-Benz is no exception. In recent years, the brand has harnessed the underpinnings of the latest A-Class to create a diverse lineup of seven different cars, all boasting a shared suite of engines and technologies. Among them, the GLA stands out as a five-seat crossover that has carved a niche of its own in the compact luxury SUV segment.

The outgoing GLA garnered immense popularity, with over a million units sold between 2013 and 2019. In 2023, the model has received a facelift, maintaining its reputation as a reliable crowd-pleaser. While the exterior changes might not be immediately noticeable, the GLA now sports a slightly taller and wider stance, with increased ground clearance and black plastic trim around the sills and wheel arches to give it a rugged edge.

Mercedes has also made improvements in terms of proportions, aligning the GLA more closely with rivals like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40. This transformation gives it a more substantial and SUV-like appearance while preserving ample interior space for passengers and cargo.

Inside, the GLA’s cabin is undoubtedly impressive, featuring a full-size double-screen dashboard as a standard feature. While the cabin is a highlight, some changes have raised eyebrows. The laptop-style trackpad on the center console has been replaced, and the steering wheel now features touchpad controls in place of physical buttons. Nevertheless, the climate controls remain as physical buttons, adding a touch of convenience.

The GLA has a good-sized cargo area in addition to providing comfort and ample space for passengers in both the front and rear. Material quality meets expectations, and customizable ambient lighting provides a touch of sophistication.

When it comes to powertrains, the GLA offers various options. You can choose between 1.3-liter mild or plug-in hybrid petrol engines, or opt for 2.0-liter diesel engines, which produce outputs ranging from 163 to 187 bhp. The mild-hybrid setup in the 200 model reduces engine start-up times, adds 14 bhp during acceleration, and enhances fuel efficiency by enabling the combustion engine to shut down during coasting. The plug-in hybrid 250e variant offers more power and an impressive electric range of up to 43 miles, supporting fast charging.