Daily Archives: December 16, 2019
Top 3 Things About the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Its High-Performance AMG Version
After teasing us with its camouflaged prototypes and partially photographed portions of the crossover, Mercedes-Benz finally unveils the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, and its high-performance variant, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.
The GLA range will be rolled out in US dealerships by the summer of 2020. European buyers will get their orders delivered to them as early as spring next year though. There’s no official information yet regarding the pricing of the compact SUV but it is estimated to start at the £35,000 mark.
1. Appearance
The exterior of the new GLA is not that different from its outgoing model. However, checking it closer will show that it now has a smoother body similar to the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It also adopts a new front radiator grille, narrower lights, and redesigned bumpers.
The dimensions of the auto have been updated too. Compared to its predecessor, the new GLA is now 0.6 shorter although it gains 1.1 inches in its wheelbase, 1.2 inches in width and 4.1 inches in height. The new configuration provides extra legroom for the rear seat passengers of the vehicle.
2. Tech and Comfort
Most of the goodies found in the new A-Class are simply carried over to the new GLA such as the circular air vents, steering wheel, controls, standard twin 7-inch displays that can be upgraded to 10.25 inches, and the MBUX multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The AMG GLA 35 version adds the MB-Tex/Dinamica microfiber-covered seats in black with red stitching as well as a carbon-fiber look on the dashboard and side panels. The AMG unit also adds four optional leather upholsteries to choose from.
The car wash function of the Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV trickles down to the GLA too. Basically, this function folds the side mirrors and closes all the windows, including the sunroof, upon activation during car washing. Then the integrated rain sensors of the wipers are deactivated so that they will not automatically engage. In addition, it switches the climate control to air-recirculation mode during the process.
3. Power
The range starts with the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 carrying a 1.33-liter engine producing 161 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque managed by a seven-speed automatic transmission. This one is only offered in Europe.
The US gets the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine capable of 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The power of the auto is distributed via an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The unit boasts a 0-60 mph acceleration at 8.6 seconds and an electronically-limited max speed of 130 mph.
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 is fitted with a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine. It has 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The numbers take the vehicle from 0-60 mph in just 5 seconds while its top speed is electronically-capped at 155 mph.
Mercedes is expected to introduce more power trims for the GLA, including a plug-in hybrid model powered by electricity and petrol. Furthermore, it is set to receive the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 and 45 S models with 382 hp and 354 lb-ft torque plus 416 hp and 369 lb-ft torque, respectively.
