Mercedes-Benz GLA 2021 review: 250 4Matic

The latest GLA is much better looking than the old one. Yep, the previous model looked more like a hatchback with an elevated ride height, but this new iteration properly looks like a part of Mercedes-Benz’s SUV family.

That’s because it’s taller at 1611mm high, although shorter at 4410mm end to end and wider at 1834mm across. So, it has more traditional SUV proportions with its taller, boxier shape, although it’s still svelte and smooth looking, much like the bigger GLC.

It has more traditional SUV proportions with its taller, boxier shape. (image: Dean McCartney)

The recently-released GLB, meanwhile, sits between the GLA and GLC, and if you like boxy, then be sure to take a look at that. But smaller suits a city better in many cases, such as parking and piloting narrow streets, and the GLA is the littlest SUV Mercedes-Benz currently offers in Australia.

While the GLA might be small though, it is prestigious and modern looking, especially our GLA 250, which was fitted with several option packs, which enhance the look. More on those a little later.

While the GLA might be small though, it is prestigious and modern looking. (image: Dean McCartney)

The glamour isn't just contained to the newcomer's exterior, either, with a pair of 10.25-inch screens stretching across the dash. The stunning cabin in our test car was also boosted by a number of packages/options, which lift it even higher. Much higher.

How much does all this cost? Yes, about that – we’re almost there.

The main point of buying the GLA 250 4Matic over the GLA 200 is not for the sunroof nor heated seats the second-tier grade brings, but for the engine and AWD.

The GLA 250 delivers a 165kW/350Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, driving all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), while the GLA 200 makes do with a 120kW/250Nm 1.3-litre petrol, seven-speed DCT and front-wheel drive (FWD).

The GLA 250 delivers a 165kW/350Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, driving all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). (image: Dean McCartney)

The GLA 250 also comes standard with sports suspension which is lowered, while that Off-Road Engineering package features a drive setting for tougher terrains (keep in mind it’s not a bush-bashing 4x4 though) and a downhill driving function, plus a headlight trick that broadens the beam for better visibility during slow-speed driving. Neither are mandatory for urban duties.

You could also argue the same for AWD. So, while I enjoyed the responsiveness of the GLA 250 engine and sporty handling, the smaller engine in the GLA 200 and FWD is all you really need in an urban-only car.

Stop go, stop, go, stop. That’s urban driving and it can mean way more petrol consumption than driving on motorways and country roads. The GLA 250 has an idle/stop fuel saving system which cuts the engine when you’re sitting in traffic, but the 2.0-litre engine and AWD system can certainly add to the thirst.

Mercedes-Benz says that its urban fuel consumption is 9.7L/100km. My own testing found the GLA 250 used 13.7L/100km when measured at the petrol pump. To be clear this after a week of urban-only driving.

If you were to regularly spend time on the motorway that fuel economy would be better, and Mercedes-Benz says that after a combination of open and urban roads the GLA 250 should use 7.5L/100km.

Our place is about 8km from the CBD. The roads are barely holding together. Some of the streets are so narrow that it’s an instant stand off if you meet another car coming the other way and parking is scarce and even if you do jag a space it’s small. 

Luckily the GLA 250 4MATIC is small too, with auto parking – big urban driving points there and it also proved easy to drive with good steering and great visibility.

The GLA 250 adds heated front seats. (image: Dean McCartney)

The GLA 250’s engine was responsive with plenty of oomph and the dual clutch auto transmission performed smoothly in traffic.

That standard sports suspension is standard, and on the roads around me, the more cushioning you can have between you and the pothole the better, so the ride felt firm at times.

As with many Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the gear shifter is located on the steering column and is a similar design to an indicator stalk. It’s a personal thing but I think the design is great and not only can you keep both hands on the wheel while shifting, but it’s quicker for three-point turns.

The stunning cabin in our test car was also boosted by a number of packages/options, which lift it even higher. Much higher. (image: Dean McCartney)

The GLA is the SUV version of the Mercedes A-Class, and if you’re looking for a small family car then trust me when I say it’s far more practical than an A-Class hatch or the CLA sedan.

Legroom in the second row is good and, at 191cm tall, I can sit behind my driving position with space to spare. Headroom is also good back there.

The boot’s cargo capacity is 435 litres (VDA) which isn’t enormous for the class, but the load lip is low, and the tailgate is powered.

Cabin storage is good, with large door pockets, a deep centre console box, and two cup holders up front. Rear seat passengers don’t get cup holders – which will disappoint parents – as will the rear doors which don’t seem to open wide enough. At least directional air vents are fitted in the back.

There are also four mini USB ports on board (two in the rear and two up front).

Legroom in the second row is good and, at 191cm tall, I can sit behind my driving position with space to spare. (image: Dean McCartney)