GLA FOR EFFORT (some text hidden) SECTIONED_new_mercedesgla_2018

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 86

The GLA, first launched in 2014, was the very first small Mercedes SUV. If you're looking at a used one, try and stretch to one of the post-2017 facelifted models. These are as classy as you'd expect a premium 'C'-segment family hatch-based crossover model ought to be from the Stuttgart brand. Thorough engineering borrowed from the Mercedes A-Class means that that there's plenty to like beyond the badge, primary selling points focusing upon quality and efficiency. In short, it's a car that suits its fashion-conscious segment.

Modelsword count: 20

5dr SUV (2.1 diesel [GLA 200d/ GLA 220d] / 1.6, 2.0 petrol [GLA 180, GLA 200, GLA 250, GLA 45])

Historyword count: 164

The GLA competes in the premium part of the SUV 'C' sector and, like all models in this segment, is based on family hatchback underpinnings, in this case those of the third generation version of the Mercedes A-Class. Mercedes originally launched the GLA in 2014 but much changed in this class in the years directly following that introduction, hence the need for a package of facelift improvements introduced in 2017. That's what's brought us the car we're looking at here. As updates go, they don't come much milder than this, though Mercedes would of course argue that few changes were really necessary. The front end was brought into line with the brand's other SUVs, the interior was smartened a little, there were some more sophisticated equipment options and, well, that's about it. As before, a class-leadingly light kerb weight made possible an un-bettered set of running cost returns. This car sold until early 2020, when it was replaced by an all-new second generation version.

What You Getword count: 312

A small but subtle change of emphasis took place as part of this MK1 model's 2017 facelift. In its original form, the GLA looked a little like one of those rather half-hearted attempts that some manufacturers make at the compact crossover concept - a family hatch with a few SUV hormones thrown in. This facelifted version isn't much different, but the changes made were just enough to give it more visual credibility as a fully-fledged SUV, albeit a very mild, fashion-orientated one. Up-front, you get a higher perch than you'd find in a comparable A-Class thanks to the slightly loftier ride height, but other rivals seat you more commandingly. Otherwise the cabin architecture is very similar to a third generation A-Class, which means yet another interior inspired from the world of aviation, with your eye immediately drawn to the five circular air vents, styled to resemble jet engines and finished in 'cool touch' electroplated metal trim. The three grouped in the centre of the fascia sit below what remains a rather unusual touch, a free-standing Central Media Display. It looks like an iPad that's been bolted onto the upper part of the centre console as something of an after-thought. Actually though, it's a fully-integrated infotainment system that offers its media connectivity via a tablet-style screen that's 8-inches in size provided you avoid entry-level trim. In the rear, knee room is quite limited compared to what you'd get in, say, a rival BMW X1 or a competing Audi Q3 but legroom isn't too bad by class standards, though you'll have hardly any if you find yourself in the middle of the bench, a position compromised by the prominent centre transmission tunnel. The boot comes as standard with a powered tailgate. The heavily styled rear light clusters do necessitate a rather narrow opening, but once the hatch powers up, you'll find 481-litres of space.

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