About Mercedes-Benz GLA 200

Hey car enthusiasts and future luxury car owners. When it comes to buying a new car, especially a premium one, there are so many things to consider. You're probably thinking about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, what the monthly maintenance will look like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, the company's service network in India. It's a big decision, and you want to make sure you're getting the best value and experience for your money.

Today, we're taking a deep dive into one such premium compact SUV that's been turning heads: the new Mercedes-Benz GLA 200. This stylish and feature-packed SUV from the German luxury carmaker promises a blend of elegance, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Let's find out if it checks all your boxes.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 is powered by a refined petrol engine, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience.

• Engine Type: 1.3L Four-Cylinder Turbocharged Petrol
• Displacement: 1332 cc
• Max Power: 163 hp at 5500 rpm
• Max Torque: 250 Nm at 1620-4000 rpm
• Transmission: 7G-DCT (7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission)
• Acceleration (0-100 kmph): Approximately 8.7 seconds

Design Overview

The GLA 200 truly embodies Mercedes-Benz's modern design philosophy, blending SUV robustness with coupe-like sportiness.

Exterior

• Compact SUV Stance: A bold and dynamic presence on the road.
• LED High-Performance Headlamps: Signature Mercedes-Benz lighting for enhanced visibility and style.
• Stylish Alloy Wheels: Adds to its athletic and premium look.
• Slightly Raised Ride Height: Gives it that SUV appeal while maintaining a sleek profile.

Interior

• Luxurious Cabin: High-quality materials and a sophisticated design create a premium feel.
• Dual Digital Screens: A standout feature, housing the infotainment and instrument cluster seamlessly.
• 64-Colour Ambient Lighting: Allows you to customise the cabin mood.
• Comfortable Seating: Well-bolstered seats offer good support for long journeys.
• Practical Storage: Thoughtfully designed compartments for everyday items.

Key Features

The GLA 200 is loaded with technology and comfort features to enhance your driving experience.

• MBUX Infotainment System: 10.25-inch touchscreen with intuitive user interface.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: 10.25-inch fully digital display, customisable.
• Smartphone Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless integration.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Offers an airy feel and great views.
• 360-Degree Camera: Makes parking and navigating tight spots much easier.
• Wireless Charging: Convenient charging for compatible smartphones.
• Dual-Zone Climate Control: Ensures personalised comfort for front occupants.
• Electrically Adjustable Front Seats: With memory function for driver and passenger.

What is the Ground Clearance of the Mercedes-Benz GLA?

• The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers a respectable 183 mm of ground clearance, which is suitable for Indian road conditions and mild off-road excursions.

What is the Boot Space of the Mercedes-Benz GLA?

• The GLA provides a versatile boot space of 425 litres, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats, making it practical for luggage and shopping.

What are the Dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz GLA?

• Length: 4410 mm
• Width: 1834 mm
• Height: 1611 mm
• Wheelbase: 2729 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the GLA 200 petrol variant, it's worth noting that the Mercedes-Benz GLA range in India also offers a diesel option.

• GLA 200: 1.3L Turbo Petrol (as detailed above)
• GLA 220d: 2.0L Turbo Diesel, offering more torque and potentially better fuel efficiency for those who prefer diesel engines.

Safety Features

Mercedes-Benz prioritises safety, and the GLA 200 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems.

• 7 Airbags: Including knee airbag for the driver.
• ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
• ESP: Electronic Stability Program for better control in challenging conditions.
• Active Brake Assist: Helps prevent collisions by alerting the driver and assisting with braking.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Keeps you informed about tire health.
• Parking Assist with 360-degree Camera: Aids in safe and easy parking.
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts: For secure installation of child seats.

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is a prime concern, and while the GLA 200 has not been specifically tested by Bharat NCAP yet, its platform has a strong rating from Global NCAP's European counterpart.

Rating Agency	Score
Euro NCAP (2019) – For A-Class Platform	5 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Not Yet Tested

The 5-star rating from Euro NCAP reflects Mercedes-Benz's commitment to high safety standards for its vehicles built on this architecture.

Rivals of Mercedes-Benz GLA 200

In the competitive Indian luxury compact SUV segment, the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 faces off against some strong contenders:

• BMW X1
• Audi Q3
• Volvo XC40
• Mini Countryman

How is the Car? Pros and Cons

Every car has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a balanced look at the GLA 200:

Pros

• Premium Brand Appeal: The three-pointed star instantly adds prestige and desirability.
• Luxurious and Feature-Rich Interior: High-quality cabin, dual screens, ambient lighting, and advanced tech create a superb experience.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: Absorbs bumps well, making it suitable for city and highway driving.
• Refined Engine and Smooth Transmission: The petrol engine is peppy, and the 7G-DCT gearbox is butter-smooth.
• Excellent Safety Features: A comprehensive suite of safety tech ensures peace of mind.
• Stylish and Modern Design: Stands out with its sporty yet elegant looks.

Cons

• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, taller passengers might find rear legroom a bit tight on longer journeys compared to some rivals.
• Price: Being a Mercedes-Benz, it comes with a premium price tag, which might stretch some budgets.
• Maintenance Costs: While Mercedes-Benz offers service packages, overall ownership and part costs can be higher than non-luxury brands.
• Limited Diesel Option: The GLA 200 is petrol-only. While the diesel GLA 220d is available, some buyers might prefer more engine options for the entry-level GLA.

Conclusion

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 is a fantastic option for anyone looking to step into the world of luxury compact SUVs. It successfully blends Mercedes-Benz's signature style, advanced technology, and robust safety into a desirable package. If you're a first-time luxury car buyer, someone upgrading from a premium sedan, or simply seeking a stylish urban SUV that offers a great driving experience and boasts a prestigious badge, the GLA 200 certainly makes a compelling case.

Considering its impressive list of features, comfortable ride, and that undeniable Mercedes-Benz allure, the GLA 200 is more than just a car; it's a statement. Before making your final decision, we highly recommend taking a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand and discussing the ownership costs and service packages with your local Mercedes-Benz dealer. Happy car hunting.