As Mercedes-Benz's smallest crossover, the subcompact GLA-Class is not unlike an upscale Nissan Juke, with rakish styling that prioritizes a sporty look over utility. Luxury competition includes Audi's Q3 and, ironically, an Infiniti model called QX30 that shares the GLA's powertrain and underpinnings. Given the recent and rapid rise in popularity of small, upscale models with AWD, we're frankly surprised more luxury automakers haven't gotten involved in this category of vehicle.
The GLA moves into 2017 with updates to its standard and optional features lists, which we'll get into momentarily.
This little crossover is still offered in GLA 250 and GLA 45 models, both powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In the GLA 250, it makes 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while in the GLA 45 it generates impressive figures of 375 hp and 350 lb-ft. Benz's 4Matic AWD system is standard with both trims, as is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that gets AMG's speedshift treatment in the GLA 45, along with trim-specific gear ratios.
Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption estimates are 10.3/7.6 L/100 km (city/highway) for the GLA 250 and 11.3/8.5 for the GLA 45.
While the GLA's basics remain the same, 2017 brings a number of changes to standard and optional features lists for both variants.
Among those is the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility to the premium package available in both models, and a surround sound stereo is now a stand-alone option in the GLA 250, and that model also loses its standard power-adjustable front passenger seat, which is now an option.
A panoramic sunroof is now a stand-alone extra, instead of coming as part of the premium package, while the premium plus package gains passive keyless entry, which was formerly a stand-alone extra.
GLA 45 models gain an optional track package, and a performance exhaust system optional in the GLA 45 is moved from the premium package to the driver's package, which also adds 20-inch wheels.
Standard kit in the GLA 250 ($38,000) includes 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, seven-inch display audio, artico leather upholstery, manual air conditioning, 12- way power driver's seat, heated front seats, Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel, keyless start, dynamic select drive mode selector, attention assist, active brake assist, rain-sensing wipers and run-flat tires.
A premium package adds backup camera, blind spot assist, smartphone integration and automatic climate control. Premium plus models add auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors, bi-xenon headlights, power tailgate and passive keyless entry. A sport package brings 19-inch wheels, cross-drilled front brake rotors and exterior styling additions.
GLA 45 models ($51,900) include most of the same standard features as the 250, and add upgraded brakes and sport steering and suspension, 19-inch wheels, AMG-specific drive modes, artico/dinamica upholstery and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The 250's premium and premium plus packages carry over, with the GLA 45 getting an exclusive package of leather seating and dashboard or an AMG exclusive group that brings red cut leather seat upholstery. A driver's package adds performance steering wheel, ride control sport suspension, a race driving mode, performance exhaust and red brake calipers. Finally, the track package brings a limited slip front differential, tire pressure monitoring, dinamica trim and performance steering wheel.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
