Mercedes GLA 2016 360 degree test drive | Passenger Rides

TL;DR

A review of the Mercedes GLA 250's performance and features.

Transcript

welcome to a 360 degree passenger Ride video on the Mercedes GLA so let's go what a beautiful day we have today it's absolutely peeing it down so here we go now this particular car that I'm driving is the GLA 250 which means it's the petrol 2 L petrol over 200 horsepower and yeah it goes pretty quick but it also makes that noise bit of a racket smo... Read More

Key Insights

• The Mercedes GLA 250 offers a 2L petrol engine with over 200 horsepower, providing a quick yet noisy driving experience.
• Automatic gearbox placement in Mercedes cars is appreciated for its convenience, differing from other models.
• The GLA's ride quality is enhanced by its elevated design, offering comfort and decent handling despite some criticisms.
• Steering feedback is minimal, likened to a computer game, lacking the tactile sensation of wheel movement.
• Visibility is compromised due to small windows and a sleek windscreen, making the cabin feel dark and enclosed.
• The infotainment system is mid-level, featuring a Garmin sat-nav, which is functional but not as advanced as higher-end models.
• The car's design is visually appealing, though some interior materials are considered subpar for a Mercedes.
• All-wheel drive is standard on most GLA models, but front-wheel drive is available on entry-level diesel versions to save costs.

Questions & Answers

Q: What engine does the Mercedes GLA 250 have?

The Mercedes GLA 250 is equipped with a 2L petrol engine that delivers over 200 horsepower. This engine provides a quick driving experience, although it is noted for being somewhat noisy. Despite its power, the engine's fuel economy is less impressive, achieving under 30 miles per gallon even when driven sedately.

Q: How is the gearbox positioned in the Mercedes GLA?

The automatic gearbox in the Mercedes GLA is positioned conveniently, with the gear selector located higher up rather than down near the console. This placement is appreciated by the reviewer, who finds it to be the best location for easy access, contrasting with other cars where the selector is placed lower.

Q: What are the visibility issues in the Mercedes GLA?

Visibility in the Mercedes GLA is compromised due to its small windows and sleek windscreen design. The cabin feels darker and more enclosed as a result, which can be problematic for drivers who prefer a more open and airy interior. The higher seating position offers some improvement but not significantly.

Q: How does the Mercedes GLA handle on the road?

The Mercedes GLA handles reasonably well, with its elevated design contributing to a more comfortable ride. However, the steering feedback is minimal, which is likened to a computer game experience. This lack of tactile feedback can detract from the driving experience for those who prefer more engagement with the road.

Q: What are the infotainment features of the Mercedes GLA?

The Mercedes GLA comes with a mid-level infotainment system that includes a Garmin sat-nav. While functional, it lacks the advanced features of higher-end Mercedes models. The system is adequate for basic navigation and media control, but it does not match the sophistication of BMW's iDrive or other premium systems.

Q: What is the interior quality of the Mercedes GLA like?

The interior of the Mercedes GLA is stylish, but some materials are considered subpar for a brand like Mercedes. While the overall design is visually appealing, the quality of certain components does not meet the high standards typically associated with the brand, which may disappoint some buyers expecting luxury.

Q: What are the drivetrain options for the Mercedes GLA?

Most Mercedes GLA models come with all-wheel drive, providing added grip and stability. However, for those looking to save on costs, the entry-level diesel engine, the 200d, is available with front-wheel drive. This option allows buyers to choose a more economical configuration without sacrificing essential performance.

Q: How does the Mercedes GLA compare to its rivals?

The Mercedes GLA aims to blend the driving experience of the A-Class hatchback with the practicality of a small SUV. While it offers a stylish design and decent handling, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque. Its strengths lie in its elevated comfort and brand appeal, but some interior quality and visibility issues may influence buyer decisions.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Mercedes GLA 250 is a compact SUV with a powerful 2L petrol engine, offering a fast but noisy ride. Its automatic gearbox is conveniently placed, though steering feedback is lacking, making it feel more like a video game than a traditional driving experience.

• Despite its elevated design for comfort, the GLA struggles with visibility due to small windows and a sleek windscreen, resulting in a darker cabin. The infotainment system is mid-level, featuring a Garmin sat-nav, but lacks the sophistication of higher-end Mercedes models.

• While the GLA's exterior is stylish, some interior materials fall short of Mercedes' usual standards. The car handles well enough, though steering feedback is minimal. All-wheel drive is standard on most models, with a front-wheel drive option available for entry-level diesel engines.