Just as the new Mercedes CLA-Class is a massive improvement over its predecessor, the same goes for this GLA-class SUV. Starting at $37280 adding $1050 to the destination, the GLA250 is a perfect access point to the Mercedes-Benz line and yet has the taste and generation to stand out in the subcompact SUV category.
Although it’s about the same size, visually, the new GLA actually works. It has a longer wheelbase of 1.1 inches, but its total duration is shorter than before, it is only about four inches higher and slightly wider. The sculpted hood gives the GLA250 an aura of strength and I love the characteristic LED lights of sunlight. My test vehicle has the AMG Line appearance organization at $22four0 and the organization hurts $400, giving the SUV a different grille, shiny black outer molding and a slightly more competitive stylus. These features usually give you 19-inch wheels, however, this GLA250 takes things to a higher level with a larger 20, a $1050 option.
Energized by
The GLA250’s 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 engine develops 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and although front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is optional. These numbers are competitive in elegance: the GLA250 is as rugged as an Audi Q3 or BMW X1, and outperforms the Volvo XC40’s fundamental T4 powertrain.
Mercedes’ eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is a joy, especially in SPORT SUV mode, where it keeps gears longer to squeeze out all engine power. There are gearshift cams, but the transmission works well on its own. It’s a little soft for my taste, even in Sport, but it’s accurate and quick to react.
In Comfort mode, the GLA offers a quiet ride. My only complaint is that the 2.0-litre I4 looks a little rough, the fluid and simple force transmission makes up for it. Burmester’s optional audio formula also gently drowns out the engine.
Four-wheel drive GCs have off-road mode, not that you don’t need to be off the beaten track, especially with 20-inch wheels. The Off-Road configuration adjusts the engine, all-wheel drive and anti-lock brakes, allowing the GLA to handle the filthy terrain better. The GLA also comes with a descent control, which is a bit like a downhill cruise control, keeping the GLA between 1 and 11 mph on steep slopes.
The GLA’s fuel economy is decent, with the EPA estimating 25 miles consistent with city gallons, 34 mpg on the road and 28 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models. Adding all-wheel drive reduces those numbers to 24, 33, and 27, respectively.
Mercedes-Benz has advanced its technological game in recent years and the GLA doesn’t skimp on the right things. A couple of 7-inch screens for the board and infotainment are standard, but my tester increases them to 10.2 inches. Enhanced displays are a component of the $1750 Premium Package and value it.
MbUX software is the star here, and can be directed through the guide wheel keys on the guide wheel, a touchpad on the center console or simply by touching the screen. You can also reactivate the formula by saying “Hey, Mercedes”, how much voice allows you to do almost anything. I can only say, “I’m cold” and MBUX says, “I’m raising the temperature to 74 degrees.” Thank you, ma’am!
The $1,295 multimedia package adds real-increased navigation overlays that can demonstrate data such as direction and directional arrows on a symbol captured through the forward-facing camera. I’ve already used this generation and look ahead every time: it’s a rare case where I don’t just plug my phone in and depend on Apple CarPlay (or Android Auto, if that’s your bag).
Technological successes continue to come with a number of driving assistance systems. The only problem is that smart things are a component of a $1700 drive force assistance package, it’s worth the price. Adaptive cruise control takes the car to elegant prevention and the car uses GPS to reduce speed at road corners, tolls, etc. Management assistance does a smart task by keeping the GLA focused on its lane along the road, and a lane goes Our caution is there in case it starts to turn to one side.
But while the list of technologies is rich, the rest of the GLA is a bit low-end. The fabrics are all of an elegant quality, look, but the design is a bit bland, with little attention to detail. Fortunately, the seats are comfortable and there is plenty of storage space. I love the thick, flat-bottomed guide wheel, and Mercedes’ two-tone ambient lighting continues to impress.
The larger dimensions of the GLA mean there is much more space inside, even for passengers in the row at the moment. There is 4.5 inches more legroom at the rear than the outgoing model, and there is also more headroom for front passengers. Even with the panoramic sunroof, my five-foot-nine-inch frame has plenty of space. My hair the height of a pandemic isn’t even close to touching the roof of the ceiling.
Where the GLA suffers a little is in the shipping area, which is smaller than other cars of the class. There are only 15.4 cubic feet of area in the row at the moment, while a BMW X1 has just over 27 cubes and the Audi Q3 is around 24. Fold those seats and the GLA becomes a little more competitive with 50.5 cubic feet. Again, it is smaller than the X1, but the seat specification exceeds that of the Q3.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 can start at $37280, but things can get pretty crazy if you don’t pay attention to the options. All-wheel drive costs $2,000 and my tester has a crazy amount of bells and whistles, bringing the final value to $55,585, adding destination. That’s a lot of cash for this entry-level GLA, so it would be wise to use the add-ons.
Even then, the higher value is well valued, contemplating the quality of the GLA compared to before. The drive force assistance generation is good, the powertrain is full of life and the interior is comfortable. Those who need a little more power would possibly have to wait until the end of the year for AMG versions, however, as things stand, the GLA250 is a perfect starter SUV for other people looking for luxury in their lives.
This was originally published on Roadshow.
Video: Five to find out about the 2019 Subaru WRX (Roadshow)
Like it on Facebook to see stories
Please give an overview of the site: