Driven: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 has been a huge success since it launched in 2014 and has sold nearly 1 million units worldwide. The first two generations of the GLA 200 models were high-riding glammed up variants, with its 3rd-generation model getting a more off-road appeal. We recently got to spend some time with the latest GLA 200, and we finally understand why consumers are flocking towards this luxury compact SUV.
Fuel-efficient engine
Under the hood, the GLA 200 gets powered by a 1.3-litre turbopetrol engine which proves to be a very fuel-efficient option. But with such a small engine, things like power does get compromised. On the road, the GLA 200 is not as quick as one would as it produces a power output of just 120kW and 250 NM of torque but it is quite ideal as a daily drive. It comes equipped Mercedes smooth running 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GLA 200 is not exactly the most exhilarating drive but at the end of the day, its brilliant fuel consumption and smooth drive certainly make it appealing to small families.
Stylish exterior
The GLA 200 was made to compete with rivals such as the Audi Q3 and BMW X1, so naturally, a modern designed exterior was on top of Mercedes's to-do list. The outside of the GLA 200 is both minimalistic and elegant in many ways and immediately stands out in its SUV market. Some key design features on the GLA 200 include power domes in the bonnet, a single-louvre grille with a central star, and all-round protective cladding for a rugged off-road appeal. The GLA 200 does get polished aluminium roof rails and rides on 17-inch light-alloy wheels.
Premium interior
The cabin of the GLA 200 can be summed up as both premium and spacious. The GLA 200 may not look as spacious on the outside but once you step into it, problems like legroom and headroom no longer exist. Of course, like all Mercedes-Benz SUV’s the GLA 200 gets equipped with some of the finest interior features you will see on the market. The highlight here is its 7-inch MBUX touchscreen multimedia infotainment system, which comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. In many ways the GLA 200 feels built for comfort and the more time you spend with it; you realize why it has become such a popular choice.
Verdict
Besides its lack of speed finding cracks in the GLA 200 may be a very hard thing to do. This is simply because it offers everything you would expect in a premium SUV. Offering a smooth ride, good fuel economy, and a spacious interior, the GLA 200 is certainly a well-worthy competitor in this now competitive compact SUV market. The GLA 200 is in many ways the ideal SUV for those who wish to make an affordable transition to the Mercedes-Benz nameplate.
Pricing
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 R674 000
