Mercedes GLA 2020: A Perfect Blend of Style and Practicality
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Price and Savings
- Design and Appearance
- Engine Options
- Interior Features and Technology
- Space and Comfort
- Boot Capacity and Practicality
- Annoying Features
- Positive Features
- Driving Experience
- Cost and Economy
- Conclusion
Mercedes GLA: The Impressive Baby SUV from Mercedes 👶🚗
The Mercedes GLA is the latest addition to the Mercedes SUV range, designed as a more compact and practical alternative to the A-Class. With its higher driving position and stylish design, it aims to compete with the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the Mercedes GLA and explore its features, performance, and overall value for money. So, let's get started!
1. Introduction
The Mercedes GLA is the baby of the Mercedes SUV range, offering a compact and versatile option for those seeking a higher driving position without sacrificing style and luxury. With its sleek design and practical features, the GLA aims to appeal to a wide range of customers looking for a premium SUV experience.
2. Price and Savings
When it comes to pricing, the Mercedes GLA starts at £33,000. However, it's worth noting that significant savings can be made when purchasing through Carwow, with an average discount of £1,500 available. For example, the higher-end GLA 220d with all-wheel drive and premium plus trim, originally priced at £43,500, can be obtained for £41,500 through Carwow, resulting in a substantial saving of £2,000. So, if you're considering purchasing a new car, it's definitely worth checking out the offers on Carwow.
3. Design and Appearance
The new Mercedes GLA takes on a more robust SUV-like design compared to its predecessor, moving away from a bloated hatchback appearance. The dimensions have been increased, providing a wider and taller stance, and giving the car a more substantial and commanding presence on the road. It features standard LED headlights with a distinct ping grill. The AMG Line versions offer more aggressive bumpers with larger air intakes, adding to the sporty and stylish look. Additionally, the AMG Line models come with chrome roof bars and chrome window surrounds, giving them a premium touch.
4. Engine Options
The Mercedes GLA offers a range of engine options to suit different driving preferences. The GLA200 comes with a 1.3-liter three-cylinder turbo petrol engine delivering 163 horsepower. For more power, the GLA250 boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 224 horsepower. Diesel options include the GLA200d with a 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 150 horsepower, and the GLA220d with a 2.0-liter diesel engine generating 190 horsepower. All models come with an automatic gearbox, while the diesel variants are available with all-wheel drive.
5. Interior Features and Technology
Inside the Mercedes GLA, you'll find a modern and luxurious cabin designed with the driver's comfort in mind. The standout feature is the twin screens, with the entry-level model sporting two 7-inch screens, while the executive model and above offer a more generous 10-inch screen. The infotainment system is user-friendly and can be controlled through touch, a pad, shortcut buttons, steering wheel controls, or voice commands.
The GLA provides ample legroom, with 11 centimeters more knee room compared to its predecessor. The seats are comfortable and supportive, especially in the AMG Line models, which feature sport seats with red stitching for added style. Rear passengers can enjoy sufficient headroom, and the back seats split three ways for added versatility. The GLA also offers excellent storage options, including door bins, a center armrest compartment, cup holders, and a glove box.
6. Space and Comfort
The Mercedes GLA offers a comfortable and spacious interior, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers. With a height increase of 10 centimeters compared to its predecessor, the GLA provides a higher seating position, giving the driver a commanding view of the road ahead. The seats are adjustable and offer great support, making long journeys more enjoyable. The controls for the seats are conveniently located on the door, making adjustments easy and hassle-free. Furthermore, the GLA boasts impressive headroom and legroom, accommodating both taller and shorter individuals with ease.
7. Boot Capacity and Practicality
While the Mercedes GLA may not have the largest boot capacity in its class, it still offers a practical and versatile storage solution. With a capacity of 435 liters, it falls slightly behind competitors such as the BMW X1 (505 liters) and Audi Q3 (530 liters). However, the GLA makes up for it with thoughtful features and clever design. The boot comes with an electric tailgate as standard, making loading and unloading a breeze. The floor can be raised to create a flat load area, and the absence of a load lip allows easy and convenient loading of bulky items. The inclusion of nets, tie-down points, and various storage compartments further enhances the practicality of the GLA's boot space.
8. Annoying Features
As with any car, there are a few aspects of the Mercedes GLA that some may find annoying or disappointing. For instance, the entry-level model does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring an upgrade to the executive model or above. Another notable drawback is the limited choice of standard paint colors, with white being the only no-cost option. Additionally, the reflective trim on the interior can be distracting when driving in bright sunlight, and the fitment of the low cover in the underfloor storage is obstructed by extended rubber bits.
9. Positive Features
Despite a few minor annoyances, the Mercedes GLA boasts several positive features that make it an attractive option in its class. The augmented reality satellite navigation system is a standout feature, providing real-time road feed and graphical arrows to ensure seamless navigation. The GLA also offers a car wash function, automatically adjusting various settings when entering a car wash for convenience and protection. The energizing seat kinetics feature in the electric seats ensures a comfortable posture, particularly during extended journeys. Furthermore, the GLA comes with Mercedes' renowned safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems and high-quality multi-beam LED headlights.
10. Driving Experience
The Mercedes GLA delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience, whether you're navigating through city streets or cruising on the motorway. With light steering and responsive brakes, maneuvering in tight spaces and traffic is effortless. The suspension is well-tuned, effectively absorbing bumps and providing a smooth ride. The GLA performs admirably at higher speeds, offering good stability and minimal wind and tire noise. While not as sporty as some alternatives, the GLA's driving dynamics strike a balance between agility and comfort.
11. Cost and Economy
In terms of cost and economy, the Mercedes GLA proves to be a reasonable choice. With an average of 45 miles per gallon, the GLA offers decent fuel efficiency, making those long drives more economical. Additionally, the pricing, especially with the available discounts through Carwow, makes the GLA a competitive option within its segment. The inclusion of standard features and selectable trim levels ensure a fair balance between price and value.
12. Conclusion
To conclude, the Mercedes GLA is an impressive SUV that combines style, comfort, and practicality into one package. With its sleek design, advanced technology, spacious interior, and enjoyable driving dynamics, the GLA offers a compelling choice for those in the market for a premium compact SUV. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its positive features and strong overall performance make the GLA a worthy contender in its class.
So, if you're in search of a compact SUV that combines elegance, versatility, and a touch of luxury, the Mercedes GLA should definitely be on your shortlist. Explore the exciting offers available through Carwow to find the best deals on this exceptional vehicle.
Highlights:
- The Mercedes GLA offers a stylish and practical alternative to the A-Class.
- Price discounts of up to £1,500 available through Carwow.
- The GLA features a robust SUV design with LED headlights and AMG Line options.
- Engine options include petrol and diesel variants with automatic transmission.
- The GLA provides a modern interior with twin screens and intuitive infotainment controls.
- Ample legroom, adjustable seats, and quality materials enhance comfort.
- The GLA offers 435 liters of boot capacity and clever storage solutions.
- Annoying features include limited paint choices and obstructed underfloor storage.
- Positive features include augmented reality navigation and energizing seat kinetics.
- The GLA delivers a comfortable driving experience with excellent fuel efficiency.
- The GLA offers an impressive combination of style, comfort, and practicality.
FAQ
Q: Can I get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the entry-level GLA model?
A: No, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are only available in the executive model and above.
Q: How much can I save on the Mercedes GLA through Carwow?
A: On average, customers can save up to £1,500 on the purchase of a new Mercedes GLA through Carwow.
Q: Does the GLA have adaptive dampers?
A: Adaptive dampers are only available on the sporty AMG 35 or AMG 45 models, not on the standard GLA models.
Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the GLA?
A: The GLA has an average fuel efficiency of 45 miles per gallon.
Q: Does the GLA come with advanced safety features?
A: Yes, the GLA is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems and high-quality multi-beam LED headlights for enhanced safety.
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