The Mercedes GLA is a popular compact SUV that blends urban practicality with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned luxury and driving dynamics. For those considering the GLA, understanding its performance and driving characteristics is crucial. This review delves into what it’s like to drive the GLA, examining its engine options, ride comfort, handling, and overall driving experience.
Mercedes GLA rear cornering
Driving Comfort and Handling
One of the standout aspects of the Mercedes GLA is its comfortable ride. It adeptly absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, making it a pleasant companion for both city commutes and longer journeys. The GLA also boasts neat handling; it feels composed and responsive when navigating corners, offering a reassuring sense of control for the driver. Furthermore, the cabin remains fairly hushed, especially when cruising at motorway speeds, contributing to a relaxed and refined driving environment.
However, it’s worth noting that while generally refined, some suspension noise can be noticeable, particularly on rougher road surfaces. This minor intrusion into the otherwise quiet cabin is a point to consider for ultimate refinement seekers.
Engine Options and Performance
The Mercedes GLA offers a range of engine choices to cater to different performance preferences and driving needs.
GLA 200: Efficient and Adequate for Daily Driving
The entry-level GLA 200 is powered by a 1.3-liter petrol engine enhanced with mild hybrid technology. This combination aims to boost both performance and fuel efficiency. Producing 161bhp, the GLA 200 achieves a 0-62mph time of 8.9 seconds. While perfectly adequate for navigating urban environments and everyday driving, the engine does require being worked harder to achieve and maintain higher speeds, especially on motorways.
The automatic gearbox paired with the GLA 200 performs admirably in selecting the appropriate gear to maintain momentum. However, drivers seeking effortless and relaxed progress might find the engine and gearbox combination slightly less refined when pushed.
GLA 35 AMG: Performance-Oriented Hot SUV
For those craving more exhilarating performance, the AMG GLA 35 is the answer. This performance variant houses a 2.0-liter engine churning out 302bhp. The increased power significantly reduces the 0-62mph sprint to just 5.2 seconds, delivering a noticeable boost in driving excitement. Notably, the GLA 35 AMG is also equipped with 4Matic four-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
GLA 250e PHEV: Electrified Performance and Efficiency
The GLA range also includes a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) option, the GLA 250e. This model combines a version of the 1.3-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 215bhp. The electric motor significantly enhances performance, allowing the GLA 250e to achieve 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds. Officially, the GLA 250e offers an electric range of up to 48 miles, surpassing the Range Rover Evoque PHEV (38 miles) but falling slightly short of the BMW X1 PHEV (55 miles).
GLA 200d: Anticipated Diesel Efficiency and Torque
While specific details were not available in the original article, the review mentions the GLA 200d diesel variant. Based on the impressive performance of the diesel engine in the Mercedes A-Class, it is anticipated that the GLA 200d will offer ample low-down muscle, making it feel more effortless to drive compared to the equivalent petrol engine, particularly in everyday driving scenarios.
In conclusion, the Mercedes GLA presents a compelling package in the compact SUV segment, offering a comfortable ride, neat handling, and a range of engine options to suit various needs. While the base petrol engine may require working harder for motorway speeds and some suspension noise is present, the availability of powerful AMG and efficient PHEV variants ensures there’s a GLA to match different driving preferences.
