Of the three prominent German luxury brands in India: Audi, BMW and Mercedes, Mercedes-Benz has always enjoyed a more upmarket image as the brand commenced operations in India ahead of its competition. The brand now offers an extensive portfolio in India with more than 10 models. The entry-level luxury SUV market has witnessed immense growth over the last couple of years, and the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Mercedes-Benz GLA are the three main models in this space. The GLA is based on the same platform as the A-Class hatchback and is a successful model from the German giant. It is priced from Rs 46.48 to Rs 50.48 lakh (ex-showroom).
After the previous generation of the GLA received flak for its crossover styling, Mercedes-Benz updated the GLA with a major overhaul that transformed its crossover image to that of a proper luxury compact SUV. The latest generation GLA was launched in India in May 2021, and has ever since been a highly-rated SUV in its segment. Nonetheless, here’s a comprehensive buying guide on the GLA, its specifications, what we love and loathe about it, and why you should or should not buy one:
Mercedes-Benz GLA Specifications
Engine & Transmission | ||
Engine | 1.3-litre petrol | 2.0-litre diesel |
Transmission | 7-speed DCT | 8-speed AT |
Power | 163 PS | 190 PS |
Torque | 250 Nm | 400 Nm |
Mileage | 17.4 kmpl (220) | 20.8kmpl (220d) |
| Dimensions |
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Length | 4410 mm | |
Width | 2020 mm |
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Height | 1611 mm |
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Wheelbase | 2729 mm |
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Boot Space | 435 litres |
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Safety |
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Feature | Variant Available |
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Airbags | 7 airbags as standard |
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ABS with EBD | Standard | |
Rear Parking Sensors | Standard |
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All-Wheel Disc Brakes | Standard |
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Reverse Parking Camera | Standard |
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Electronic Stability Programme | Standard |
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Tyre Pressure Monitoring System | Standard | |
ISOFIX Mounts | Standard |
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Hill Hold Assist | Standard | |
Hill Descent Control | Standard | |
Feature Highlights |
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Feature | Variant Available |
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Active bonnet | Standard |
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Mercedes Me connected car | Standard |
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Sports seats | Available in 220d 4MATIC |
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Ambient lighting in 64 colours | Standard |
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Off-Road engineering package | Available in 220d 4MATIC |
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Why you should consider the Mercedes-Benz GLA
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is an ideal SUV to consider within a budget of Rs 50 lakh. It’s a luxury SUV that ticks all the boxes and comes packed with all the tech and safety features you can expect. With the latest iteration, the GLA is also quite the looker. If you’re still on the fence, read on to find out if the GLA is for you:
AWD drivetrain
An AWD drivetrain instantly makes an SUV attractive. The Mercedes-Benz GLA is in fact available with the famed 4MATIC AWD system coupled with the 220d 2.0-litre diesel engine option. This engine develops 190PS and a massive 400Nm mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The AWD setup is one of the biggest USPs of the new GLA as it transforms the compact SUV’s on-road and off-road performance. For starters, the AWD version is faster in a 100 kmph sprint registering a time of 7.3 seconds. It is also the range-topping model with extra goodies such as the off-road engineering package which adds additional kit to improve the off-road capabilities.
Fun to drive SUV
Generally, BMWs tend to be the driver’s car and that was also the case for the previous generation GLA, with the X1 being the exciting car to drive. But the latest iteration of the GLA has upped the fun quotient. Helping with that is the 4MATIC system coupled with the punchy diesel. The GLA rides exceptionally well, dealing with potholes and whatever our Indian roads have in stock. High-speed stability is also superior and the GLA can handle anything, be it fast-flowing roads or poor urban tarmac. That said, the 1.3-litre petrol engine only offers decent thrills and if you want the full experience, we suggest the diesel.
Exquisite cabin
Mercedes-Benz is known for its cabins and the same has trickled down to the smaller GLA. This is one cabin that you wouldn’t mind spending time in. Right from the design to the quality of materials used, Mercedes has got it absolutely right. And, as with any Mercedes cabin, there’s an exquisite and classy feel to the cabin accentuated by top-shelf materials and finish. The beautiful round turbine air-con vents are the highlights followed by the dual 10-inch screens. It’s just the right mix of old school and modern, and for that reason alone, you’ll easily fall in love with the GLA’s interior.
Why you should not consider the Mercedes-Benz GLA
Although the GLA gets most things right, there are some areas where the competition might be ahead. So here are some of the downsides:
Expensive range-topping variant
All the bells and whistles of the Mercedes-Benz GLA come at a cost. If you opt for the GLA 220d with the 4MATIC AWD system, you’re looking at a price tag of over Rs 50 lakh, ex-showroom. That will easily translate to an on-road price of close to Rs 60 lakh depending on where you live. Yes, you do get the brilliant AWD system but at the end of the day, the GLA is a compact SUV with compact dimensions. Adding to that is the newly-launched BMW X1 which comes at a highly competitive price undercutting its rivals. That said, if the pricing is not an issue for you, the GLA will definitely justify the premium over time once you start living with it.
Boot space
Another area where the GLA lags behind the competition is the boot space. With a maximum boot space of 435 litres, the GLA is not going to wow you over some of its rivals. There’s enough space on offer and a space-saver spare tyre. However, if a big boot is a requirement for you, we suggest you take a closer look at the rivals as well and figure out if you can live with the boot space of the otherwise faultless Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Mercedes-Benz GLA Variants
Mercedes is offering the GLA in three main variants and two trim lines (exterior design pack). The three main variants on offer are the base GLA 220 petrol, the mid-spec GLA 220d diesel, and the range-topping GLA 200d 4MATIC. These three variants are also available in progressive line or AMG line (only for 4MATIC) trim options.
Variant | Powertrain | Price |
GLA 220 | Petrol Automatic | Rs 46.48 lakh |
GLA 220d | Diesel Automatic | Rs 47.98 lakh |
GLA 220d 4MATIC | AWD Diesel Automatic | Rs 50.48 lakh |
Mercedes-Benz GLA Variant to buy
If you are looking for the full SUV experience, the GLA 220d 4MATIC is a good option but the price is steep. At the end of the day, the GLA is an urban SUV that will spend most of its life inside an urban jungle. Considering that aspect, the GLA 220d variant makes the most sense and offers the most value at Rs. 47.98 lakh, almost Rs. 3 lakh cheaper than the AWD version. You get all the same features and kit except for the 4MATIC system which might not be an essential requirement for most of the potential GLA owners out there.
Summary
The GLA is now a mature and well-rounded product with updates to the 2021 model. It has dropped the crossover styling for an SUV stance along with a host of other updates making it a strong option in the compact luxury SUV segment. The 2.0-litre diesel engine is potent, the GLA handles and rides well, and features a rich cabin that stands out from the competition. At the end of the day, if you want an SUV that screams luxury and reminds you of the premium purchase, you can never go wrong with the GLA.
