Initially previewed as a concept car back in the 2o13 Shanghai Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz GLA then made a global debut later in 2013. Sharing the same modular platform that underpins the latest Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the GLA is positioned as a luxury compact crossover. Locally, the Mercedes-Benz GLA will be pitted against the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.
Since the roots of the GLA can be traced almost directly to the A-Class, dont be surprised if you mistake the GLA as an A-Class at first glance. But despite sharing the same platform as the A-Class, it is marginally larger overall compared to the A-Class.
Available in 3 different models, ranging from the GLA200, GLA250 up to the GLA45 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has a few models for you to choose from.
Starting from “Urban” GLA 200, the entry level model sports a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, good for 156 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 250 Nm of twisting power from 1,250 rpm to 4,000 rpm. The only transmission choice offered on the GLA 200 is the 7G-DCT automatic transmission. The Urban kitted GLA 200 features a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, with a twin five-spoke design wrapped with 235/50/R18 rubbers. Despite being an entry-level model, the GLA 200 still looks the part, with an aerodynamic front bumper that contributes to the very low Cd value of 0.29. The GLA 200 is no slouch too, being able to accelerate from standstill to a hundred in just 8.9 seconds, with a top speed of 215 km/h. For the GLA 200, there are two suspension choices, the first being the off-road comfort suspension, raised by 30 mm, and the second being the sports suspension which lowers the GLA 200 by 15 mm up front and 10 mm at the rear. The GLA 200 retails for RM 238,888 without insurance.
Moving one level up, there is the GLA 250 4MATIC. Featuring the “AMG Line” exterior enhancements, the GLA 250 also comes with a “Night Package”. Unlike the GLA 200’s 1.6-litre engine however, the GLA 250 has a 2.0-litre engine with 211 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 Nm of torque, available from 1,200 rpm to 4,000 rpm. Like the GLA 200, the GLA 250 also features the same 7G-DCT automatic transmission. But, the GLA 250 does feature Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system with fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Line GLA 250 also features a set of twin five-spoke alloy wheels, but with a different design and measures at 19-inches. Being an AMG Line model, the GLA 250 does sport a much more aggressive set of front and rear bumpers, with larger front air intakes. With that 211 horses under the hood, the GLA 250 is capable of completing the century sprint in 7.1 seconds, shaving off 1.8 seconds off the GLA 200. Top speed is a respectable 230 km/h. The GLA 250 4MATIC is yours for RM268,888.
Lastly, we have the top-of-the-line GLA 45 AMG, the ultimate GLA model for the general public. Powering the GLA 45 AMG is Mercedes-Benz’s MDE133 engine shared with the CLA 45 AMG and the A 45 AMG. So like the other AMG models, the GLA 45 AMG also sports 360 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. Torque figures are also identical, coming in at 450 Nm, available from 2,250 rpm to 5,000 rpm. Coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the GLA 45 AMG is capable of sprinting from zero to one hundred in just 4.8 seconds, making it as fast as a Lotus Evora S IPS, and even faster than BMW E39 M5, which comes in at 5.1 seconds. Top speed of the GLA 45 AMG is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Being an AMG model, the GLA 45 AMG’s suspension set up has been enhanced. For that added exclusivity, buyers will get the GLA 45 AMG in the limited “Edition One” variant as standard. The wheels on the GLA 45 AMG measures at 20-inches, with sticky Continental ContiSportContact 5P 235/40ZR20 tires all round. With all these performance, the GLA 45 AMG comes in at RM378,888 without insurance.
“The success of the new compact vehicles is an important element of our strategy for the future. With the compact GLA, we add another attractive SUV variant to the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio on this constantly growing statement. The GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling. I am very confident that with its fascinating design and high everyday practicality, the new GLA will fill many new customers with enthusiasm for our brand,” said Roland Folger, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
In terms of safety, the Mercedes-Benz GLA excels in that, with all models sporting ABS, Brake Assist, ESP, 6 aibags, with ISOFIX for the child seat behind. Furthermore, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with adaptive Brake Assist, comes standard from the GLA 200 onwards. Models equipped with the 4MATIC system benefits from DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and Active Parking Assist. All GLA models sold in Malaysia comes fully build up in CBU form, from the GLA 200 up to the GLA 45 AMG.
Enjoy the photo gallery below!
