Mercedes GLA review pictures

The Mercedes GLA is a compact SUV based on the A-Class, and rivals the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. 

<span>The Mercedes GLA is essentially&nbsp;<span>a family hatchback on stilts, with&nbsp;<span>plastic body cladding and wheelarches.</span></span></span>

<span>The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is standard on all but the manual 200 CDI model, and can send up to 50 percent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels for improved corner-exit traction.</span>

<span>The GLA has an extra 50mm ride height, fatter tyres, softer suspension, and the addition of bushes to the rear subframe over the A-Class.</span>

<span>There are four engines on offer – two diesels including the entry-level GLA 200 CDI, and the higher-powered GLA 220 CDI.</span> <span>The two petrols include the GLA 250 &nbsp;and the hot&nbsp;</span>GLA 45 AMG<span>&nbsp;vers

<span>Like other small SUVs, the Mercedes GLA does suffer from a stiff low-speed ride which improves the faster you’re going.</span>

<span>You can opt for an off-road pack on the GLA that includes a 30mm increase in ride height to improve ground clearance. However, this does soften the GLA’s sharpness on the road</span>

<span>Given its family hatchback underpinnings, the GLA has a safe and predictable handling balance. The steering is direct, there’s surprisingly little body roll and it grips harder than an Evoque.&nbsp;</span>

<span>The solid interior on the GLA&nbsp;<span>features&nbsp;racy-looking dials and a tablet-style display for the infotainment system.</span></span>

<span>It is worth noting that unlike its rivals, the Mercedes GLA doesn't get a high-riding driving position and so i<span>t’s quite tight inside.</span></span>

<span>The 134bhp 2.1-litre diesel 200 CDI is quick enough and is the most economical model in the Mercedes GLA range. However&nbsp;<span>they are noisy and send vibrations through into the cabin.</span></span>

<span>The Mercedes GLA's boot is large at 481-litres, with 1,235 litres on offer with the back seats folded down.</span>