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It is Bigger
and That’s a Good Thing
Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic
(2021)
By: Juan Robbin
The
completely redesigned, 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is now all
grown up. The overall design, ride comfort and the seating
height all create a feel that is exactly what a proper small
SUV should be.
The 1st generation was more of a hatch back
crossover, sure, it was fun to drive, but it really wasn’t
an SUV. The new version feels bigger, roomier and more
luxurious, yet its size feels just right. It’s easy to park
in tight spaces, a snap to do a U turn and never a problem
fitting into even a small garage.
The front facia is all
modern Mercedes-Benz look, offering an integrated
aerodynamic bumper and elegant headlights. The side profile
shares similar corporate shape as with the larger models.
The rear of the GLA features an easy to manage, electric
hatch, flanked by modern-looking exhaust tips on edges of
the bumper corners.
Once inside, you immediately feel as if you are in a bigger,
plusher SUV. Instantly you start noticing the similar layout
that has become the current interior architecture of
Mercedes-Benz.
The MBUX infotainment, offering Apple-Car-Play, at first can
be a bit confusing, yet after spending a few minutes
exploring the different menu’s you get used to it and it
becomes intuitive. Seats look great and are quite
comfortable.
I was surprised at the amount of seat space in the second
row, even with the seat placed in position for my 6’ stature
I was able to sit behind the driver’s seat and still have
comfortable leg and head room without a need to move it.
Bravo Mercedes-Benz! The fit and finish is first-class
throughout, which is a nice touch for any entry-level
vehicle. Cargo area is generous and well appointed, rear
seats do fold forward adding additional cargo space.
As
the new GLA is a proper small SUV, you do give up some of
the fun and engaging driving dynamics the previous hatchback
offered but in turn, you get a more luxurious feel both in
comfort and ride. Acceleration won’t set the street on fire,
but it’s certainly adequate for day-to-day driving needs.
Steering is typical of an electric steering setup, which
means not a lot of feedback.
Brakes are strong and easy to
modulate at crawling speed and your passengers will thank
you for the ease of being smooth in all types of traffic.
The GLA250 has an eight-speed dual clutch transmission which
does have some unique sounds and feel to it. Off the line,
the transmission upshifts quickly to maximize fuel
efficiency. I found myself driving more times in the manual
setting and shifting with the paddle shifters as I felt more
engaged with the driving, it’s all a matter of preference.
One big difference as compared to a typical automatic, is
when slowing down to a full stop. You notice the
transmission doing its downshifting which, if you pay
attention, you will hear and feel it do its thing. It’s not
overly intrusive but you do notice it.
Highway cruising is
what the GLA250 does best. Its serenely quiet, smooth and
incredibly comfortable. Once you master the infotainment
it’s all basically controlled by your finger-tips and the
miles accumulate effortlessly. The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a
proper small SUV that is worth putting on your short list of
candidates.
Comparables Include: BMW X1, Audi Q3, Cadillac XT4, Lexus NX
The Essentials:
MSRP: $38,230.00 MSRP (As tested):
$54,515.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 25.3 MPG
Engine: Inline-Four, 2-liter turbo, 221 HP and 258 lb-Ft of
Torque
Popular Options Include:
20” AMG Wheels $750.00
Panorama Sunroof: $1,500.00
Suspension with Adj. damping: $990.00
Burmeister Premium Sound: $850.00
Driver’s Assistance Pkg: $1,700.00
AMG Line: $2,240.00
Premium Pkg: $1,750.00
Visit:
www.mbusa.com
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