After testing the smallest, most affordable Mercedes-Benz hatchback (A200), and then its sedan twin, it’s only natural that we went for an East Coast whirl in sibling number three: this crossover GLA200 kindly provided by Mercedes-Benz Umhlanga.
You should know: The GLA is now in its second generation (H247) and updated form, following Merc’s new naming strategy where anything urban off-roady starts with “GL”. This one gets the letter “A” because it really is the smallest crossover in Stuttgart’s line-up: just 4.4m long, 1.6m high and about 1.8 to 2m wide.
Other crucial dimensions include a kerb weight of 1,500kg, 11.4m turning radius, 525L boot space, 18.3° approach and 22.1° departure angle, but only front-wheel drive and 143mm of ground clearance, thereby underlining its city SUV credentials. The GLA may also lack diff locks but has an off-road program in its stability / drive system.
What else? Interestingly, the new GLA is ever-so-slightly shorter and narrower than its X156 predecessor, although it does show a smidgen more height and wheel-base in its technical drawings. This translates to marginally better head- and shoulder-room for all occupants, although I would caution against placing more than two adults at the back.
More info: In today’s amazing world of product scaling and platform sharing, you might be bored to discover that this GLA is, in fact, based on the same sexy-sounding MFA2 (modular FWD architecture 2) platform as the aforementioned A-Class hatchback and sedan, as well as the current B-Class, GLB crossover and all-electric EQA.
Why you shouldn’t: As has been a Mercedes hallmark for decades, your first problem is the steep starting price of ZAR 926,703. No, I also don’t know what those three Rand are for. This AMG-Line model costs exactly 29,000 extra, and while that may be a comparative bargain, I pity anyone who wants the base-line “Progressive” model… because the factory only wants to make pretend AMG’s.
Why you should: Problem number two is the Renault-alliance M282 1.3L turbo-petrol four cylinder, although I will quickly add that our fairly fresh test vehicle provided plenty of punch in most modern driving situations. The only power gaps appear at pull-away or upper highway speeds, where 135kW or 270Nm may seem insufficient to a spoilt petrol-kop!
I’m sure you’d agree that the Mercedes-Benz South Africa claims of 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h are extremely adequate in today’s crazy traffic. The little Benz can also be pretty efficient, with claimed average fuel use of 7.3L/100km from the 43L tank. I averaged nine without even trying.
In summary: With a surprisingly pliant ride (even on this faux AMG derivative) and decent drive train, comfortable chairs and clever tech, loads of charging and storage options, great parking and safety features, the handsomely chunky GLA200 makes a lot of sense.
FULL SPEC LIST
| Engine: | 1,332cc i-4 Turbo-petrol |
| Transmission: | 7-speed DCT, FWD |
| Max. Power: | 135kW @ 5,500rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 270Nm @ 2,000rpm |
| Avg. cons.: | Claimed 7.3L/100km |
| 0-100km/h: | Claimed 8.9 seconds |
| Top Speed: | Claimed 210km/h |
| List Price: | From ZAR927,000 (July 2024) |
KZN representin!!!!!!!!!!! 😄😁😎