THE new Mercedes GLA is starting 2017 with an extended range of engines, updated interior and exterior design, plus updated equipment lines priced from £25,880 for the GLA 200 petrol version.
The range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC will also be offered as a special edition; Yellow Night Edition. Following yesterday’s world premiere at the North American International Auto Show NAIAS in Detroit, the new GLA will go on sale from today, with first customer cars delivered from April 2017.
The GLA was launched in 2013 and has become a success in its segment – it is characterised by its sporty design and dynamic handling. The main markets for this model are China, USA, Germany and Britain.
With seven model series (GLA, GLC, GLC Coupé, GLE, GLE Coupé, GLS and G) Mercedes-Benz boasts the widest SUV range of all the European premium manufacturers, meaning it meets the individual needs of its customers effectively.
This also applies to the new Mercedes GLA range, which offers one of the largest selections of engines in its segment – up to the 381 hp Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC. The particularly rigid body structure provides a reliable basis for the entire model range.
The GLA is the only model in its segment to offer new comfort and safety features such as the 360-degree camera or hands-free access.
Its expressive design and clear SUV character remains one of the GLA’s strongest selling points.
Customers have a choice between three chassis variants: as standard the GLA features comfort suspension; lowered suspension is available on request (in conjunction with AMG Line or the Dynamic Handling package).
With the optional off-road comfort suspension (standard in the UK) the body is 30 millimetres higher. This results in improved off-road capability thanks to higher ground clearance and a higher seat position.
Modified bumpers, new light-alloy wheels and the addition of a new colour, Canyon Beige, are just a few of the enhancements to the new GLA. The previous optional bi-xenon headlamps have been replaced by LED headlights.
Upgrade inside
Exclusively available in this market segment, the 360-degree camera records the surroundings of the car, which are shown via the media display. It is also possible to view the car from a bird’s eye view – produced from the data of four cameras: front, reversing and one camera in each of the exterior mirrors.
The interior of the GLA has been enhanced with new seat covers and trim parts plus chromed control panels. The free-standing 8-inch media display is familiarly slim and easily legible, as are the new dials with red needles.
LED light turns night into day
The optional LED High Performance headlights replace the current bi-xenon headlights. Alongside enhanced illumination they help to relieve the strain on the eyes during journeys at night. The energy consumption is also lower: around 60%t less than xenon and approx. 70% less than halogen.
The low-beam headlights use LED projector-beam technology, while the main beam uses LED reflector technology. Changing a bulb is no longer necessary over the entire lifetime of the car.
The GLA features LED High Performance tail lights with a multi-level function, while the brake lights and indicators are controlled in three intensities. Full brightness by day, a medium level for driving during the night and a lower level when at a standstill during the night, so as not to dazzle other road users.
Autonomous braking and drowsiness warning
Vehicle safety is a top priority at Mercedes-Benz. The GLA has “Active Brake Assist” as standard: it warns the driver if they are travelling too close to the vehicle in front and, if required, delivers situation-appropriate braking.
If the system detects that the driver is reacting too late, it initiates autonomous braking in order to prevent the collision or minimise the consequences. The GLA also has “ATTENTION ASSIST” as standard: it can detect typical signs of drowsiness via the steering behaviour and warn the driver about an impending microsleep.
Hands-free access is now optionally available meaning the boot lid can be opened and closed with a foot movement.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC
With aerodynamic measures such as the restyled front apron and lip on the roof spoiler it was possible to increase driving dynamics and stability, while wind resistance has also been reduced.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC features a sharpened front section, while the front apron, air intake grilles, and front splitter have also been updated. The twin louvre on the AMG Twin Blade radiator grille is now finished in silver chrome, as are the inserts in the side sill panels.
As an additional option a multi-spoke 20-inch light-alloy wheel is available for selection in two colour variants: painted matt black with high-sheen rim or painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish.
At the rear, the GLA 45 4MATIC includes a new diffuser insert in the rear apron and detailing in silver chrome.
The interior has been similarly upgraded. The dashboard is covered as standard in ARTICO man-made leather with red contrasting top stitching. The interior trim is available in black/red (standard) or in black/silver (in conjunction with the Exclusive package).
The instrument cluster has been given a new number design and the speedometer is divided into 30 km/h stages.
The new equipment items available on request include the keyless vehicle access hands-free access and the 360-degree camera: with the aid of four networked cameras this system facilitates parking and manoeuvring with an all-round view.
In conjunction with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package (optional extra) the mechanical front axle locking differential is available. This package also includes the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the performance steering wheel and the additional drive program “RACE”.
With a maximum output of 381 hp and 475 Nm maximum torque, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC is among the most powerful cars in its segment, sprinting from standstill to 62mph in just 4.4sec.
