Introduced as a 2015 model, the GLA250 is the smallest crossover produced by Mercedes-Benz. The GLA is about 5 inches shorter and 8 inches lower than the company's mainstream compact crossover, the GLK. Demonstrating that the brand's luxury and refinement can be channeled into a smaller package, the GLA is meant to attract younger buyers. Although crossovers are typically linked to family travel, this diminutive version qualifies as more of a lifestyle vehicle for singles and couples, who value quality over space.
What's New for 2016
An all-new model last year, the GLA250 gets a few updates for 2016, as well as a price boost. Three new features are standard: keyless ignition/start, dual-zone climate control, and seat cushion length adjustment. In addition, a 7-inch video screen replaces the original 5.8-inch unit. Dynamic Select replaces Agility Select, providing four modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Sport+. The available rearview camera now provides a 180-degree view.
Choosing Your Mercedes-Benz GLA250
Compared to typical hatchbacks, the GLA rides higher, has a more aggressive stance, and looks more purposeful. Front-wheel drive is standard, but Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel drive is available, including hill-descent control and an off-road transmission mode.
A GLA drives much like a small sedan, but offers a more commanding view of the road ahead. The sole drivetrain is a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, driving a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fuel economy is estimated at 25 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on the highway with front-drive, or 24/32 mpg with all-wheel drive.
Standard equipment is quite generous considering the car’s $33,150 price (including destination charge). Features include a power liftgate, roof rails, foglamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless ignition/start, HD radio, ambient lighting, and power front seats with MB-Tex (leatherette) upholstery and driver’s memory. Also standard are Bluetooth phone and audio, rain-sensing wipers, 18-inch five-spoke wheels, and roof rails. For safety, you get a driver-alertness warning system and forward collision mitigation with automatic braking.
Most buyers will probably opt for the Premium package, which now includes Keyless Go, as well as heated front seats, auto-dimming mirrors, satellite radio, Harman Kardon Logic 7 sound, and an integrated garage door opener. Premium-equipped models may be fitted with an Interior package that includes leather sport front seats and multicolor ambient lighting. The Multimedia package adds a hard drive-based navigation system with an 8-inch display and voice control, real-time traffic and weather information, and a rearview camera.
In addition to the standard safety technology, a Driver Assistance package brings adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. For a different exterior appearance, there's a Sport package with AMG wheels and body elements, plus perforated front brakes with painted calipers. A Night Package features gloss black exterior accents. Only a handful of individual options are offered, including Parktronic active parking assist.
For a subcompact luxury crossover, the GLA250 is fairly complete as it stands, though a rearview camera is optional rather than standard. Still, adding the Premium and Interior packages is highly recommended if you wish to savor the full Mercedes-Benz experience. If you insist on significantly stronger performance along with utility and luxury, there’s also an GLA45 AMG variant.