Lots of value in a compact CUV Tested: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

By William Jinkins

What’s New:

A mild refresh exterior as well as better handling and more content.

Pros:

High-end styling, eager driving demeanor, nicely equipped interior.

Cons:

Infotainment cluster not intuitive, expensive options packages, not as quick as the previous generation.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA250 returns for the 2021 model year with more style, more features and more sheer driving pleasure than ever before. It’s powered by a 2.0L Inline-4 engine producing 221 hp. and 258 lb.-ft of torque, proving that compact does not mean lacking in anything drivers want. It’ll launch from 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds with a top speed of 130mph. Yes, there is an AMG 35 version, but let’s not forget, this is a Mercedes-Benz, so power is one thing but where the GLA250 really shines is in substance, style, and comfort.

The GLA250 combines signature Mercedes-Benz elegance with a sense of power and performance, too. The subtle slope on the front end, and coupe-like downward tilt of the rear roof all contribute to an athletic presence. Meanwhile, the 18-inch five double-spoke alloys, stunning chrome detailing, and contoured body convey timeless and classic style that’s frankly irresistible.

Other exterior developments include the two-part taillamps, which place the reflectors separately in the bumper. That small change makes loading the GLA250 easier because you can now open the rear door wider. Integrated roof rails also come as standard now.

I expect Mercedes-Benz to deliver on a high-quality interior, and they never let me down. Starting with the MB-Tex-covered seats, which at the front end include power front seats with 3-position memory. The rear seat is a 40:20:40-split set up with folding and reclining available. Upgrade the trim gets the leather-covered sport front seats, which can also be heated and/or ventilated.

One of the chief complaints about the previous-generation GLA-class was its cramped interior. Mercedes has rectified that with the new generation model. Rear-seat passengers are treated to almost five inches of extra legroom, as well as increased space for shoulders and elbows. This will help the GLA-class compete more directly with key rivals, which includes the AudiQ3, BMW X1, Lexus NX, and Volvo XC40. However, for its price point I opted for the Benz over a premium Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-5 or Nissan Rogue.

Suggested retail price is $36,230. My tester came with a Polar White exterior and black leather appointments. Options included DP1 Premium Package ($1,750), DA5 Multimedia Package ($1,295), D25 UBC Adapter Cable ($25.00), Heated Front Seats ($500), and Sirius XM satellite radio ($460) along with a free trial. Designation Charge is ($1,500), which gave it a grand total of $41,620.

Interior materials look upscale, and the layout of controls and climate-control vents is like what we see on the GLB-class and A-class, with a column-mounted shifter, center-console-mounted infotainment controller, and circular vents along the dashboard. Cargo capacity is increased compared with the old model and the rear seats fold flat; the cargo floor itself now is flush with that of the sill, which should make sliding bulkier items in and out of the trunk easier. In our testing, the GLA250 fit six carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat, one more than could be fitted in the last generation model.

For better or worse, Mercedes-Benz's MBUX infotainment system is standard, which is now not the latest and greatest. Base models come with two 7.0-inch displays, one for the driver's gauge display and one for the infotainment system itself. Dual 10.3-inch displays are optional. This same setup has been rolled out throughout much of the M-B lineup. The system can be manipulated either via the touchscreen, using voice commands, or by utilizing the touchpad controller on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard; navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, a head-up display, and a Burmester premium audio system are all optional.

The standard setup continues to impress, however, with its illuminated entry system, dual-zone climate control, heated side mirrors and smart keyless entry with push-button start. This SUV is luxury through and through. Of course, those wanting more can continue to add from the optional features such as ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and further adjustable rear seats. The only option missing on my tester seemed to be a panorama moonroof.

As I mentioned beforehand, the GLA250 is powered by a 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine which is coupled with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Together the powertrain delivers potent result. Beyond simple horsepower and torque, however, the GLA250 is surprisingly efficient, delivering an EPA estimate of GLA250 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. The all-wheel drive GLA250 4Matic's fuel economy estimates are 1 mpg lower in all three metrics.

The GLA250 sports a MacPherson front suspension, which features control arms below the center of each wheel, and an aluminum wishbone. The rear axle is a 4-link design, with three transverse links and one trailing arm for each rear wheel. This configuration ensures the smoothest and most stable ride quality. If you opt for the 4MATIC version, you can add AWD to that equation for even better traction when facing more dicey road conditions.

Automated emergency braking is standard across the range, but more advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist will require adding the optional Driver Assistance package. For more information about the GLA-class's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode.

While no one who buys a GLA250 is likely to explore the trails but opting for the 4Matic model adds more than just all-wheel drive. Mercedes is making the Off-Road Engineering package standard on that model, which provides an off-road driving mode that decreases throttle response and power delivery. Some drivers may find it useful in certain situations, such as plowing through heavy snow. In our view, the Premium package is a must as it adds the larger 10.3-inch digital gauge display and 10.3-inch infotainment screen, which are combined in one continuous panel and lend a tech-forward appearance to the GLA's cabin.

But again, this new model is not just built for performance, but also utility. It’s about three inches higher than its predecessor, with a higher seating position delivering a more commanding view to the driver. There’s additional headroom in the front and legroom in the rear, even though the overall frame of the car is half an inch shorter. A total of 50.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity make it practical far beyond what its “compact” name might suggest.”

Once again, innovation is a common thread in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and the new GLA250 is no exception. Opting for the 10.25” digital instrument cluster and equal-sized central infotainment screen for the best experience. Through that you can run your navigation, in-car Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto, and etc. 4 USB ports comes as standard, Bluetooth audio streaming, an optional driver HUD and vice commands using the “Hey, Mercedes” activator.

Where the GLA250 really shines, however, is in how Mercedes-Benz have used their tech prowess to ensure driver and passenger safety. Active brake assist, blind spot detection, ultra-crisp rearview camera, crosswind assist, rain-sensing wipers, and more all come as standard features. To that you can add programs like PRE-SAFE PLUS, which help protect rear passengers in the event of an impending rear-end collision by automatically engaging the seat-belt tensioners. The list of additional and optional safety features is frankly exhaustive.

The GLA250 is a superb compact SUV for the modern age, and with a surprisingly affordable starting price, again, of just $36,230. It’s a thing of beauty and a fine addition to the company’s eclectic collection for hopefully a better sales success.

Mercedes says a plug-in-hybrid version will be added later to the lineup. I haven't had a chance to test the new GLA250 on a 200-mile highway fuel economy test route, but when I do, I will give you an update.

What’s new for 2022

The 2022 GLA250 bundles contemporary Mercedes-Benz luxury and technology and into a stylish, compact package. The GLA-class receives only a couple updates for 2022: SiriusXM satellite radio and a 115-volt power outlet which are now included in the optional Premium package. Otherwise, Mercedes's smallest crossover carries over unchanged.