GLA FOR MORE EFFORT (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 99

The GLA is the starting point for Mercedes SUV ownership and in this second generation H247-series form, was as classy as you'd expect a premium 'C'-segment family hatch-based crossover model ought to be from the Stuttgart brand. Thorough engineering borrowed from the Mercedes A-Class meant that that there was plenty to like beyond the badge, primary selling points focusing upon quality and efficiency. The wide range includes everything from shopping versions to a plug-in hybrid, an off road-capable diesel derivative and track-tamed Mercedes-AMG variants. Something for almost everyone then, from a car that very much suited its fashion-conscious segment.

Modelsword count: 22

5dr SUV (2.0 diesel [GLA 200d/ GLA 220d] / 1.3, 2.0 petrol [GLA 180, GLA 200, GLA 250e, GLA 35, GLA 45])

Historyword count: 301

By 2020, it was time for a different kind of Mercedes GLA. This second generation version evolved into a proper SUV, rather than a high riding hatchback, and became more sophisticated in almost every way. It was the car its predecessor wanted to be. Like the very first GLA, launched in 2014, this one was A-Class-based - like the other seven compact models Mercedes was making by 2020. That first 'X156'-series GLA design tested the appetite of global buyers for small Mercedes Crossover and was rewarded with so many sales - over a million - that the Stuttgart maker replaced it in 2020 with three models - this MK2 H247-series GLA, the slightly larger, boxier GLB and the all-electric EQA. In theory, every segment requirement was covered. Except perhaps, the requirement for affordability. This GLA was pitched firmly at the premium end of the small SUV market, taking on similar models of this era from BMW, Audi, Volvo, Lexus and Jaguar. That was fine, providing the ownership experience here could be properly reflective of the marketing promises. Which hadn't always been the case with this model's predecessor. There was certainly no shortage of the kind of advanced technology potential customers were looking for, including an advanced PHEV plug-in version. Across the range, there was everything from modest shopping variants to the segment's fastest high-performance small SUV. All from a car that was more spacious, more efficient and considerably more futuristic than before. In Spring 2023, this MK2 GLA was improved with a smarter front and rear look, an updated MBUX infotainment system and more power and range for the Plug-in Hybrid version. The GLA 250e PHEV was discontinued at the end of 2023. This H247-era GLA design sold until it was replaced by a third generation GLA design in Autumn 2026.

What You Getword count: 579

If you want to know the difference between a Crossover - basically a high riding hatchback - and a proper purpose-designed SUV, then compare the first generation GLA design (very definitely a Crossover) with this MK2 model. By 2020, this segment had become so significant that half-hearted design just didn't cut it anymore, so, like its premium rivals, this Mercedes was in this second generation form every inch a proper compact SUV. As part of that transition, there were some interesting dimensional changes - the MK2 version of this car was actually 40mm shorter than before, but there was 30mm more wheelbase length between front and rear axles, so that didn't much matter. And it was a considerable 104mm taller. What will matter just as much to likely owners is the fact that it became a considerably more complete and modern piece of design. The powerful shoulders of the bodywork blend with the coupe-like lines of the tapering side windows and a contoured panel profile. At the front, where stylised powerdomes in the bonnet emphasise the self assured demeanour, it's evident that this GLA is quite a bit wider than its predecessor - 30mm wider in fact. Something emphasised by the prominent grille, which features single louvre strips flowing into the central Star and will have a background of twinkling silver pins, providing you avoid the base 'Sport'-spec models. Inside, it really does feel very premium, with man-made leather-stitched seats, a glossy black piano black-coated centre console that flows up into the dash and curious tubular silver door grab handles. Plus of course, as usual with a modern compact Mercedes, there's the usual glitzy pair of screens. Depending on the spec you choose, these will be either 7 or 10.25-inches in size (or a combination of both) and can be activated by prodding on the monitors, by various neat touchpads or by the provided MBUX 'Hey Mercedes' voice-activated functionality. You sit much more commandingly than was the case with the previous generation model - your windscreen perspective is here 140mm higher than it would be in an A-Class. And of course, as ever in a Mercedes, you're surrounded by premium touches; like the intricately fashioned double-stitched door cards. And the circular silver jet engine-style vents which decorate the dash and are an integral part of the classy ambient lighting system that brings the interior alive at night. Luxury downsizers will love it all. And in the rear? Well in one single design leap, this H247-series design took the GLA from near-bottom to near-top of its class in terms of the space on offer, thanks to 116mm of extra leg room. Someone well over six foot tall could sit behind a similarly-sized front passenger and still have leg space. Plus there's plenty of room to slide your feet below the base of the chair in front. Finally, let's consider the boot, accessed via a standard 'EASY-PACK' powered tailgate that on a plusher variant can be activated by a wave of your foot beneath the bumper if you happen to be approaching your GLA laden down with child seats and paraphernalia. Once the hatch powers up, you'll find 435-litres of space - which is actually 46-litres less than was offered by the previous generation model and 70-litres less than an equivalent BMW X1. The GLA 250e PHEV variant, due to under-floor battery placement, has even less room - 385-litres. Even here though, something like a folded baby buggy should easily fit.

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