Consider the Mercedes Benz GLA250 2019 a hot hatch for 401k-contributing adults: It's kind of a crossover and kind of a performance hatchback.
Underneath its ruggedly styled Sheetmetal it's basically a CLA-class sedan. Its performance-oriented driving characteristics remind us more of a…
Consider the Mercedes Benz GLA250 2019 a hot hatch for 401k-contributing adults: It’s kind of a crossover and kind of a performance hatchback.
Underneath its ruggedly styled Sheetmetal it’s basically a CLA-class sedan. Its performance-oriented driving characteristics remind us more of a hot hatchback than anything else, and enthusiast drivers should take note.
The GLA’s cabin is short on space for people and cargo, but it offers high-tech options such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE connectivity with onboard Wi-Fi.
Buyers seeking traditional crossover practicality and roominess would be wise to shop the BMW X1 and the Lexus NX, but the GLA-class is far more entertaining to drive.
Mercedes-Benz’s smallest crossover holds steady for 2019 with only one change: A new Iridium Silver paint color joins the options list. Mercedes has been busy revamping its small car lineup in the form of the all-new A-class and CLA-class sedans, so an all-new GLA-class can’t be far behind.
For options, we’d choose the panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and the blind-spot monitoring system. We’d also spring for the AMG Line Exterior package, which includes silver-painted exterior trim, 19-inch wheels, and cross-drilled front brakes with painted calipers.
Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive (known as “4Matic” in the Benz marketing world) is a $2000 option, and it pushes the turbo 2.0-liter engine’s power to the ground better than front-wheel drive.
The GLA250’s turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 208 horsepower and mates to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive (4Matic) is optional.
While that doesn’t sound like meaningful muscle, the powertrain does a remarkable job of pulling the GLA250 around so long as you keep up the revs. During light-footed, around-town driving, the GLA feels sluggish.
At our test track, our all-wheel-drive test vehicle managed a quick 5.8-second blast from zero to 60 mph thanks to its launch-control feature—a rarity in this segment of SUV wannabes.
For comparison, the X1’s quickest time was recorded as 6.3 seconds.
Due to the GLA250’s raised ride height, there is body roll when cornering, but otherwise the handling is sharp and athletic.
The chassis is competent and lively during spirited driving, but when pushed to its limit, the GLA250 is quick to remind you that you’re not behind the wheel of a sports car.
The effects of the firm suspension are a rough ride over uneven roads and the odd choppy highway ride. The steering is light but precise; however, extra heft in the wheel would be appreciated.
Around town, the light steering aids maneuverability, so the compromise is acceptable.
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