The compact luxury SUV / crossover market is one of the hottest sectors
in motoring, and finally, after much anticipation Mercedes-Benz has joined the fray, introducing its all-new GLA class
Based on the CLA class launched back in 2013, and fitting into the SUV lineup below the GLK, the all-new GLA is clearly aimed at younger, entry-level customers who like the prestige of the brand and styling of the CLA, but are perhaps looking for something with a bit more urban-lifestyle practicality.
From the outside, the GLA is unmistakably Mercedes-Benz, with a large three-pointed star between two broad horizontal grille blades, and swooping folds running down the sides. At the end of its rakish bonnet are swept back bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights above prominent air intakes. Its raised stance and 18-inch rims within large wheel arches, high beltline and low glasshouse, and stylized underride guard and side sill panels, all serve to give it a distinctively rugged-sporty dual personality.
Meanwhile, the rear is dominated by large, rounded-off taillights connected across the centre by a single chrome strip, and at the bottom, twin exhausts and an off-road inspired skid plate.
Another critical factor for success in this competitive segment is a high-quality, engaging interior, and on this point, the GLA excels. The driver’s view gets two clear gauges in sporty-looking cut tube casings. Across the dash are no less than five eye-catching aircraft-type vents for the climate control system, and sitting atop it, a sleek 5.8-inch floating display screen (7-inch with the Navigation package).
The standard interior gets a faux leather upholstery called MB-Tex. Real leather is available in the upgraded Interior package, and other trims include Satin Brown Poplar or Burl Walnut wood, Aluminum or Anthracite.
Front seats get 10-way power adjustable settings with 4-way power lumbar support and memory function for personalized comfort. The cabin has nice spacious feel with plenty of head and legroom, and a large panorama roof over both the front and rear seat passengers.
Speaking of space, the hatchback style power lift gate reveals 421 litres of boot space, with 60/40-split-folding rear seats and a pass-through. Fold the seats down and the capacity expands to over 800 litres.
The powertrain is the same as in the popular CLA model, with the GLA250 getting a 208-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four. The full 258 lb-ft of torque is available at just 1,250 rpm, and zero to 100km/h takes a very respectable 7.1 seconds.
The engine is mated to a 7-speed DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission. ECO, Sport and Manual modes allow the driver to choose from fully automatic efficiency and comfort to intensified response, or ‘shift-for-yourself’ excitement via the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.
The GLA comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, which cleverly shifts power between the front and rear axles as driving conditions require.
For those looking for real high performance thrills, there is of course a GLA45 AMG model, which adds all the classic AMG extras including a gutsy 355-hp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine capable of 0-100km/h in just 4.8 seconds.
Most Macau customers will be content with the GLA250 option however, and when it comes to performance and handling, there certainly won’t be any disappointment.
On the road the GLA shows convincing agility, with engaging electric power assist steering and good body control despite the extra ride height. For tight inner city maneuvering its 11.84 metre turning circle, also makes it an easy vehicle darting around town.
Mercedes-Benz’ BlueEFFICIENCY technology, including an eco start/stop function allows the GLA to achieve impressive mileage of just 6.1–6.0 l/100 km in combined mode.
Despite being an entry-level car, the GLA is available with a host of standard and optional safety features that you might usually only expect on much higher end models. These include eight standard airbags, Attention Assist to detect when the driver is getting drowsy, and the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with Adaptive Brake Assist which automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time. Other options include Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist, and Parktronic and Park Assist.
Standard tech offerings include the COMAND system interface for infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity and USB input. The options list is extensive with some highlights being a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon Logic7 surround sound system, 10GB hard drive and Intelligent Light System.
As this segment of the market looks certain to keep growing, the GLA is expected to be a big seller for Mercedes-Benz, and given the car’s styling, practicality, performance and three-pointed star luxury, it is undoubtedly going to be popular here in Macau.
Mercedes Benz Macau Showroom
Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen
No 252-266 Edificio Chun U Villa
R/C, Loja A B C
Taipa, MACAU
T: (853) 2883 1283
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 9a.m.-7p.m.
www.zungfu.com.mo
