Subtle style changes mask a decent GLA200 upgrade
Mercedes-Benz recently introduced a new mud-plugging GLA. Not that it appears new at first sight. But squint a bit and you’ll notice that there’s a new radiator grille under that power dome bonnet. There are also new LED high performance headlights, told apart by new signature DRLs, and a new front bumper that’s the biggest clue to the novelty.
Speaking of stye, the latest GLA benefits the best of its A-class genes. There’s a healthy dose of GLC and GLE in there, which is pretty cool. GLA is however quite different to the step above GLB and flagship GLS. But style was not our GLA200 AMG Line’s strongest point.
GLA200 is basically the square root of GLS450
The GLA’s sexy cabin remains its finest party trick. Basically the square root of a GLS450, its’ even better now, considering all that new kit. Always a holistic, open space, the latest GLA adds Artico fabric comfort seats and leather steering wheel trim Never mind, the panoramic sunroof now also comes fitted as part of the deal.
GLA’s infotainment has also benefited the facelift scalpel. The free-standing 7 and 10.25-inch display double screen instrument and multimedia cluster now packs latest generation CarPlay Auto Bluetooth, etc. My Mercedes MBUX. The dials furthermore gain Classic, Sporty and low content Discreet new display styles.
Its best run via Merc’s state-of-the art multifunction steering wheel’s frustrating touch pads. Driving functions to the right. Infotainment left. Can’t say we’re thrilled by how it all works with mere mortals like us. But it does the job and packs in everything you will ever need
Infotainment also benefits the facelift scalpel
There’s more to it than that, though. This little GLA offers excellent load capacity for its class. It has a versatile optional 40:20:40 split-folding individual rear bench. It shifts 140 mm fore and aft, along with backrest rake adjustment. GLA also has a cool standard height-adjustable load floor to securely store all those things you’d prefer hidden.
New GLA also benefits an updated Driver Assistance Package. It gets easier to operate Lane Keeping Assist via Active Steering Control. The next generation Parking Package now supports longitudinal parking and it even offers a new camera-assisted 360-degree 3D parking view.
Jumping under the bonnet the GLA is now electrified too. This 200 develops 120 kW and 270 Nm from its 1,332 cc turbo petrol four-pot. Now a 48-volt mild hybrid starter-generator to briefly delivers an extra 10 kW on demand. Neat. Also good for duck cuddlers.
GLA200 is solid, impressive on the road
That all drives the front wheels via Merc’s 7-speed automatic transmission. Performance impressed in spite of relatively tiny engine size. As our road test data concurs. Combined fuel consumption is just 7.3l/100 km. We achieved a little better, most of the time.
Solid and impressive on the road, the GLA200 drives more like a hot hatch than a sports ute. Handling is progressive, it rides well and gets on with aplomb. The gearbox is slick, and you never even know its new hybrid is in use. It’s economical. And GLA has a pleasant demeanour about it too, even if it’s the baby of the G bunch.
Let’s be honest though. This GLA isn’t a mud-plugger at all. It’s front-wheel drive. So unlikely to hang off a cliff or dice in the dues. It’s more about the pose, you know. And sure, it comes at a bit of a premium. But GLA200 plays an interesting role in the super-competitive entry SUV arena.
Bugger! It ain’t no mud plugger, after all!
Now titivated a bit more, the GLA200 certainly touches the spot as a spacious, stylish family taxi. Or even a fat, hottish hatchback. But most significantly, it’s a Mercedes-Benz, after all. — Michele Lupini
Data – Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Mercedes-Benz GLA200 AMG Line
Engine: 120 kW 270 Nm 1.3-litre turbo petrol I4
Drive: 7-speed automatic FWD
TESTED:
0-60 km/h: 3.66 sec
0-100 km/h: 8.02 sec
0-120 km/h 11.13 sec
0-160 km/h: 19.39 sec
400m: 15.9 sec @ 143 km/h
80-120km/h: 5.56 sec
120-160km/h: 8.60 sec
CLAIMED:
VMax: 210 km/h
Fuel: 7.3 l/100km
CO2: 165 g/km
Range: 600 km
Warranty/Service: 2y Unl/5y 100Kkm
LIST PRICE: R955K
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