Mercedes GLA-Class Compact SUV Review

I put Mercedes newest – and possibly most important release for some time – to the test. Can late entry the GLA-Class compete in what is arguably the most toughly fought sector right now?

The Mercedes GLA; a car that I have been looking forward to driving for some time.

But why have I? Well, I will tell you know that I have no idea why Mercedes have left it so long to introduce a compact SUV given the competition and popularity of the compact SUV. After all, Audi have had theirs and BMW have too for quite some time (and they are extremely good sellers).

So with such a late entry, I was expecting the GLA-Class to be good.

My first impressions from the outside are that it certainly seemed compact. The resemblance to the A-Class on which it is based is quite stunning but this is a totally different beast altogether. The ride height is 17 cm – which is 5.9 cm more than the standard A-Class – and there are a lot of exterior styling goodies that make the GLA-Class really stand out from the car.

This is no bland crossover, that’s for sure.

The theme also continues inside with a lot of black gloss and aluminium trim; the feel is well and truly sporty and you feel totally cosseted – almost like you are in a cockpit – when you are driving. Interestingly, despite the increased ride height, you don’t get that wallowy, “aloof” feel that other compact SUVs can give – you certainly feel very much connected to the road.

The GLA-Class handles well and it is certainly very nippy; the model that I drove boasts excellent economy as well as performance.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the GLA-Class is an affordable solution if you are looking for a compact SUV – of course it’s not, it’s a Mercedes; the Mercedes GLA 200 CDI AMG Line that I tested comes with a price-tag of £26,850 OTRP.

• The Mercedes GLA 200 CDI AMG Line has CO2 emissions of 119g/km, which puts it in tax band C
• You can expect to get 62.8 MPG on a combined cycle
• You will reach 62 MPH in 10 seconds, with a top speed of 127 MPH

Just as well, then, that Neva Leasing have a great leasing deal especially for you on this very model., starting from £264.99 + VAT per month. Of course, feel free to call me on 01223 893260 to discuss your requirements or click here for the full deal information!