Essentially an A-Class with better ground clearance and a straighter roof line, the GLA compact "crossover" will slot in under the larger Mercedes GLK crossover. Mercedes displayed a concept GLA at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show, a showpiece with 20-inch wheels, and the production model carries over the concept's strong tapering character lines along the side panels. It's a design element also present on the new CLA saloon. The all-new Mercedes GLA mirrors the new saloon inside as well. The all-new Mercedes GLA light-footedly masters all day-to-day challenges and is also robust enough for off-road excursions.
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| All-New Mercedes GLA |
Looks
The upright front end, with a central Mercedes star, lends a muscular and superior impression to the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA. Power domes on bonnet give the compact crossover a sporty touch, while the twin-louver grille accentuates the vehicle's width. An impressive front aspect is ensured by the headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. The front bumper features diamond-pattern grilles in front of the cooling air intakes. At the side view, the line of the beltline trim gradually rises from the rear door to the C-pillar. Roof trim strips complete the side view at the top. On request the compact crossover can be fitted with tyres sizes up to 19-inches. The muscular shoulders over the rear axle are emphasised even further by the shape of the C-pillars. The divided tail lights give the all-new Mercedes GLA a wider rear end.
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| All-New Mercedes GLA in action |
Performance
Modern four-cylinder engines that feature turbo charging and direct injection, as well as an ECO start/stop function as standard, give the all-new superior efficiency. The power range of the 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines range from 115 kW (156 hp) for the All-New Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the GLA 250 4MATIC. The GLA 250 4MATIC sprints from zero to 100 km/h in only 6.5 seconds, while the top speed is 235 km/h. The GLA 250 needs 7.1-litres/100 km. The engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the 7G-DCT (7-speed) dual clutch automatic transmission. The chassis of the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA features a McPherson front axle and an independent multilink rear suspension. In the versions with 4MATIC, the rear axle carrier is isolated with rubber bushings for the benefit of ride comfort.
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| Cockpit |
Interior
The muscular and imposing appearance of the exterior is systematically continued into the interior. All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver-shadow, resulting in a metallic finish with a "cool-touch" effect. The dashboard consists of an upper and lower section, allowing surface structures that are different in look and feel. Five round air vents are integrated into the dashboard. The direction of the airflow can be varied by butterfly-shaped inserts which can be optionally galvanised in silver-shadow. The driver grips a 3-spoke steering wheel with 12 function keys and galvanised chrome. The rear seat backrests can not only be folded down completely, but are also adjustable for angle if required. The luggage compartment (421 - 836 litres) is well-presented and can be loaded without difficulty thanks to the low loading sill and the wide tailgate.
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| Striking rear |
Verdict
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA is a great addition to the growing compact models that bear a three pointed star. The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA offers impressive performance, off road ability and luxury in a great compact package.
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