[Taboleo] The Youngest SUV's Racing Instinct... Mercedes-Benz 'The New GLA'

10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and Infotainment System
Strong Initial Torque and Power... 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 Seconds

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] 'The sedan powerhouse' Mercedes-Benz is now aiming for the throne in the sports utility vehicle (SUV) market as well. Amid the trend of preferring 'bigger cars,' they have launched two new compact SUV models, the GLA and GLB. While sharing the powertrain and platform, each model boasts completely different features, allowing customers to choose according to their 'taste.' Among the two, the one emphasizing driving pleasure sought by the younger generation is undoubtedly the second-generation fully redesigned model, 'The New GLA.' On the 24th of last month, I personally test-drove the GLA 250 4MATIC model over a roughly 60 km route from Seoul Station to Gapyeong. On the way back to Seoul, I test-drove the GLB, which naturally allowed me to compare the differences between the two models in the same class.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLA (Photo by Mercedes-Benz Korea)

The New Mercedes-Benz GLA (Photo by Mercedes-Benz)

How has the design of the second-generation GLA changed?

▲The fully redesigned new GLA is evaluated as looking a bit more 'SUV-like' compared to its predecessor. The second-generation GLA's length, width, and height are 4440 mm, 1850 mm, and 1615 mm, respectively. Compared to the first-generation model, the wheelbase has increased by 30 mm, and the height has risen by 110 mm. This is expected to increase its appeal to those who hesitated to purchase the GLA due to its previously small size.

The overall design strongly conveys the image of an urban compact SUV. Instead of strong lines, smooth curves are actively used, giving it a sophisticated impression. The GLA 250 4MATIC model, currently introduced in a single trim in Korea, comes standard with the AMG package, featuring AMG diamond radiator grille and 19-inch AMG 5-spoke lightweight alloy wheels, applying high-performance AMG design elements throughout. Chrome accents are added around the window frames and door handles, adding points to the exterior design.

It is said to be the smallest size in the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, but I am worried the interior might be too cramped.

▲As Mercedes-Benz's 'youngest SUV,' it is difficult to expect spacious interior space. As mentioned earlier, Mercedes-Benz aimed to improve interior habitability by extending the wheelbase in this full redesign. However, it is still true that it feels insufficient for 4 to 5 passengers. When an adult male sits in the rear seat, the knee room between the front seat is only about the size of two fists. However, thanks to the increased height, the headroom is relatively ample. Judging by the interior space alone, it seems more suitable as a 1-2 person vehicle rather than a family car.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA interior (Photo by Mercedes-Benz)

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA interior (Photo by Mercedes-Benz)

Is the interior different from other Mercedes-Benz SUV models?

▲Despite being an entry-level model, the GLA's interior configuration does not show much difference from other Mercedes-Benz SUV models. The first thing that catches the eye when sitting in the driver's seat is the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system on the center fascia, connected seamlessly in a long horizontal layout. Below the central display are three circular air vents reminiscent of turbines. There is also a touchpad for operating the infotainment system. Notably, the ambient lighting applied to the air vents, the front passenger side, and the door areas changes color depending on temperature, creating a fairly luxurious atmosphere.

Overall, the new GLA applies most of the design elements of higher-end models, making it possible to say that it has an interior beyond what can be expected from an entry-level model. While cheaper materials are used in less visible areas due to the price difference with higher models, premium materials are actively used in frequently touched parts, cleverly achieving a sense of luxury. Thanks to the AMG package, red stitching and chrome are applied throughout the interior, allowing a fairly high-performance feel inside as well, which is another advantage.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLA (Photo by Mercedes-Benz)

I am curious about the driving performance as well.

▲The new GLA shares its powertrain with the simultaneously launched GLB. It combines a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine with a newly developed 8-speed DCT transmission. It delivers a maximum output of 224 horsepower and a peak torque of 35.7 kg·m. In actual driving, the new GLA showed a more lively and agile movement than expected. Despite being an entry-level model, the initial torque and power are ample. There was almost no feeling of sluggishness during driving. The time taken to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h is 6.7 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds faster than the GLB, which is also notable.

With the evolution to the second generation, an off-road mode was added to the existing driving modes. Since the test drive was conducted on regular roads, it was difficult to try the off-road mode in practice. Given its small size, it is unrealistic to expect performance capable of handling severe rough terrain, but it is meaningful that the possibility was opened in response to the recent trend of increasing off-road activity enthusiasts.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLB & The New Mercedes-Benz GLA (Photo by Mercedes-Benz Korea)

How is the ride comfort?

▲Ride comfort is considered one of the biggest strengths of The New GLA and was quite satisfying. If the GLB scores high in terms of interior space, the GLA is evaluated as compensating with its lively driving feel and ride comfort. Above all, the GLA effectively absorbs road shocks while maintaining refined ride quality. Thanks to this, fatigue was minimal even during nearly two hours of driving. At high speeds, engine noise does enter the cabin somewhat, but wind noise is well blocked, so overall noise does not interfere with driving.

There must be sufficient driving assistance technologies and convenience features. Also, please tell us the price.

▲The New GLA comes equipped with various safety and convenience features as standard. It includes driving assistance technologies such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, which maintains distance from the car ahead by automatically adjusting speed, braking, and starting; Active Brake Assist, which provides audiovisual warnings and semi-autonomous braking when detecting collisions with vehicles or pedestrians; and the Active Lane Keeping Assist package. Currently, the new GLA is offered in Korea in a single trim, the GLA 250 4MATIC, priced at 59.1 million KRW. Mercedes-Benz plans to add the GLA 220 and high-performance AMG models later to offer a wider range of powertrains.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.