Standard GLA250’s turbocharged
four-cylinder is good for 208hp while the top of the GLA45 AMG’s 375hp is
wicked fast. Pick of the range is simple and the most logical choice, even
though we do enjoy how fast the AMG form is, we’d have to say the GLA250 is the
only way to go. It’s the more affordable of the two and the running costs are
actually quite good. It’s hard to fault it too because there’s decent turn of
pace around town and on the highway, plus you can option it with
all-wheel-drive if needed.
On the road the GLA does feel more
composed than you’d think. There’s plenty of grip with the 4-matic
all-wheel-drive system and steering feedback is pleasantly good. The AMG form
has a lowered suspension and its setup is more aimed towards agility. However,
you’ll be surprised that there is a fair balance between body control and ride
comfort; at least the GLA lives up to the Mercedes badge with very minimal wind
and road noise to complain of.
There is plenty of space for the front
passengers and rear passengers. Headroom and legroom are both decent. The boot
space is decent too but nothing to brag about. The infotainment system is too
fiddly to operate while on the move, and there are far too many menus to look
through for simple functions. Plus we aren’t huge fans of the screen that sort
of just pops out the dash instead of raising and lowering into the dash like in
the Audi Q3.
Bluetooth audio streaming, 14-way power
driver’s seat with memory, power lift gate and eco start/stop system all come
as standard. You’ll have to pay extra for navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps
and 4-matic all-wheel-drive. Both options that are great but all depends if you
really have to have them. Our tester car came pretty decked out and also came
with a pretty decked out price tag as well.
The GLA price tag is enticing but you’ll
have to walk away with a very sparsely equipped GLA. Even if it does offer
decent kit at a decent price, you’ll have to overlook the Q3 which does have a
bit more kit standard and of course the more dynamically appealing X1. Getting
the GLA to a desired level of kit means you’ll be paying more for it and it
becomes even harder to justify especially when there are so many indirect
rivals that are larger roomier and has more standard kit too.
Mercedes reliability record is spotty
even though Mercedes does enjoy high customer satisfaction scores. The interior
materials do feel up to Mercedes par, but the overall reliability of the
electronics should be something to look at long term wise. But at least
Mercedes doesn’t short change on the safety with collision prevention assist
plus, driver attention assist, and adaptive braking technology. Seven airbags
are standard; and an alarm system with engine immobilizer is fitted to keep
theft at bay.
The
GLA is one of those crossovers you’ll either love or loathe. We like the low
starting price and the overall badge appeal that comes along with owning a
Mercedes, however you will feel short changed with the GLA just like the CLA.
Its indirect options are much better and that raises the question is it really
worth it? If you have to have a Mercedes yes; otherwise there are better
indirect rivals that cost similar money and offer way more.
Likes: AMG form is
wicked fast. It’s a practical hatchback on stilts with a low starting
price. Low running cost.
Dislikes: Low price goes
bye-bye when options are added. Infotainment system is fiddly to operate and there
are too many distracting menus.
Devon’s choice: GLA 250 4-matic
all-wheel-drive. If your heart is set on having a GLA this form is the best way
to go. You’ll want to keep the options list light with just one or two options
added on. Both are a bit pricey but are worth adding; 4-matic all-wheel-drive
for the added traction in sticky situations and Bi-xenon headlamps for the
added luxury car appeal.
Performance: Standard form
is good but AMG form is wicked fast. ****
Ride & handling: Both are
surprisingly good. ****Refinement: Up to Mercedes standards. ****
Buying & owning: Some versions can get expensive but holds value well. **
Quality & reliability: Quality is good but reliability record is spotty. ***
Safety & Security: Comes with all the gear needed for avoidance and in event of accident. ****
Behind the wheel: Comfortable front seats; infotainment system too fiddly. ***
Space & Practicality: Decent space for five; boot space nothing to brag about. ***
Equipment: Decent kit but options are expensive. ***
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