JUST in time for a new car to be gift wrapped for Christmas, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) this week unveiled its 2020 model GLA compact SUV.
It represents the entry level into the brand’s successful family of SUV models, which continues to carry the hallmark of luxury, status and exclusivity that this brand delivers.
They are built at Mercedes' compact car factory in Rastatt, Germany.
This new GLA combines the best from the two highest-volume segments, compact cars and SUVs. The SUVs are a major structural pillar in the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio and now represent the highest-volume segment for Mercedes-Benz.
To date, more than six and a half million customers around the world have opted for a Mercedes-Benz SUV and it includes a substantial amount of GLA’s as well.
Selling price
The previous generation GLA was a popular model with upper middle class Malaysians who were looking for a premium SUV without the high asking price.
Launched in Malaysia in May 2017, the previous GLA arrived in three variants, the GLA 200 Urban Line, GLA 250 4MATIC AMG Line and the powerhouse Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC.
This time, MBM has decided to launch just the GLA 200 for RM244,192.82 (previous GLA 200 priced at RM239,888) and the GLA 250 for RM285,336.66 (previous GLA 250 priced at RM269,888).
It's still a SUV
This new GLA is now taller and more SUV-like than the outgoing model.
While the design direction has changed, this new GLA still borrows its design language heavily from its A-Class sibling.
Mercedes has increased the ride height so that this GLA looks more SUV-like and not a hot hatch with large wheels like the current popular model.
This taller hatchback design will appeal to older buyers who appreciate vehicles that are easy to get in and out of, but aren’t looking for large SUVs like the GLC and GLE SUVs.
Dynamic exterior
Typical of the GLA are the powerful shoulders of the bodywork and the coupé-like lines of the side windows. This contoured side profile gives the car it’s dynamically elegant flair and offers an interesting play of light and shadows.
As in the case of the other Mercedes-Benz SUV models, the radiator grille features distinctive openings along with a single louvre and a central star, with LED High Performance headlamps, finished to a high level of quality, detail and precision.
All-round protective cladding adds structure to the overall proportions and emphasizes the vehicle’s character, as does the simulated under-ride guard at the front and rear.
Two equipment lines are available: The GLA 200 is equipped in Progressive Line with 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, while the GLA 250 is equipped with AMG Line body-styling.
The AMG Line enhances the attractive, sporty presence of the vehicle with lowered and dynamically tuned suspension to intensify driving experience.
Contemporary interior
The instrument panel consists of a basic volume, which features optical "cut-outs" in the driver and front passenger area. The cut-out on the driver’s side is dominated by the free-standing display unit, which comes with two 10.25-inch displays. The latest generation of the Mercedes me connect is also a feature that comes as standard in the GLA.
GLA 200 Progressive Line
The GLA 200 Progressive Line is powered by the 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with the 7G-DCT automatic transmission. It develops 163hp and a maximum torque of 250Nm, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds.
GLA 250 AMG Line
Powering the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC AMG Line is the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with the 8G-DCT automatic transmission. It rates at 224hp) and produces a maximum torque of 350Nm, accelerating the car from 0-100 km/h in only 6.9 seconds.
This new GLA also includes the intuitively operated MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) with the latest generation of Mercedes me connect. Other safety and assistance systems include Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning, and PRE-SAFE System.
Available in the GLA 250, Blind Spot Assist is able to warn of vehicles, including bicycles, in the danger area.
For the first time, when the vehicle is at a standstill it can signal to the driver with a visual warning in the exterior mirror before they climb out that a vehicle is driving past in the critical area.
Visit any one of the 35 premium Mercedes-Benz outlets operated by seven dealer groups for a test drive. – The Vibes, December 16, 2020
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