The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA marked a significant entry into the compact luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, versatility, and performance in a smaller package. This model year presented consumers with a range of choices, from the efficient GLA250 to the high-performance GLA45 AMG, each tailored to different driving preferences and needs. Understanding the standard equipment, performance metrics, and available options is crucial for anyone considering a 2015 Mercedes GLA.
Alt text: Front view of a 2015 Mercedes GLA Class SUV showcasing its stylish design and compact form factor, emphasizing its appeal as a luxury urban vehicle.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2015 Mercedes GLA
The 2015 GLA models prioritized driver and passenger comfort and convenience with a generous list of standard features across the GLA250, GLA250 4MATIC, and GLA45 AMG 4MATIC trims. All models came equipped with a power liftgate for easy cargo access, chrome roof rails adding to the SUV’s aesthetic and functionality, and power front seats with 4-way lumbar support and a 3-position memory system to ensure optimal driving posture. In-cabin entertainment and connectivity were well-covered with a USB port, Bluetooth audio streaming, HD Radio, and Bluetooth interface for hands-free phone calls. A central controller paired with a 5.8” high-mounted display provided intuitive access to vehicle functions, while a multifunction 3-spoke leather steering wheel and a 4.5” color instrument cluster display offered essential driving information at a glance. Additional standard comfort features included Mbrace connectivity, double cupholders, tilt & telescoping steering column, sun visors with illuminated mirrors, electronic cruise control, power windows with express up and down, automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting, a trip computer, and intermittent wipers with a rain sensor.
Performance and Handling of the 2015 Mercedes GLA Models
Performance varied significantly across the 2015 GLA lineup, catering to different driving styles. The GLA250 and GLA250 4MATIC both featured a 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder Turbo engine, producing 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering a balance of efficiency and responsiveness. These models reached a top speed of 130 mph and utilized a 7G-DCT transmission. The GLA250 was front-wheel drive, while the GLA250 4MATIC offered enhanced all-weather capability with 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive. For drivers seeking high performance, the GLA45 AMG 4MATIC boasted an AMG-enhanced 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder Turbo engine, dramatically increasing output to 355 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. This performance variant achieved a higher top speed of 155 mph and featured the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-DCT transmission, paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive optimized for sporty driving dynamics.
Alt text: Side view of a 2015 Mercedes GLA45 AMG, emphasizing its aggressive styling, lowered suspension, and AMG wheels, reflecting its high-performance nature within the GLA class.
Safety and Security in the 2015 Mercedes GLA
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2015 GLA, equipping all models with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features. Standard safety equipment included a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and a 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, providing peace of mind. The GLA’s construction featured a high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, supplemented by a Supplemental Restraint System with occupant sensor, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners & dual-stage belt force limiters, and multiple airbags including front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, front window airbags, and driver and passenger knee airbags. Advanced driver assistance systems included COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with autonomous braking, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), and ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor. Security features encompassed an Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer, Smart Key with Panic Button, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Notably, the GLA250 and GLA250 4MATIC models also included tires with run-flat capability.
2015 Mercedes GLA Options and Packages
To further personalize the 2015 GLA, Mercedes-Benz offered a wide array of paint, upholstery, trim options, and package upgrades. Paint options ranged from standard no-cost colors like Night Black, Jupiter Red, and Cirrus White to metallic paints such as Cosmos Black, Mountain Grey, and Polar Silver, with premium designo Magno Mountain Grey also available. Upholstery choices included MB-Tex and Leather options in various colors like Black, Beige, and Ash, with exclusive options like Black “Red Cut” Leather for the AMG model. Trim options allowed for further interior customization with Anthracite, Aluminum, Satin Light Brown Poplar Wood, Burl Walnut Wood, and Carbon Fiber Trim for the GLA45 AMG.
Several packages bundled popular options for enhanced value. The Premium Package added features like a Garage Door Opener, Compass, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Dual-Zone Climate Control, harman/kardon Premium Sound, and Heated Front Seats. The Multimedia Package included a Rearview Camera and the COMAND system with Navigation, Voice Control, 3D Map Views, a 7” High-Resolution LCD Screen, and more. The Sport Package (GLA250 and GLA250 4MATIC) enhanced the exterior with AMG GLA cladding, 19” AMG Wheels, and larger brakes. The Interior Package (GLA250 and GLA250 4MATIC) upgraded the interior with Leather Upholstery, ARTICO on the dash, Sports Seats, and a Black Headliner. For advanced safety, the Driver Assistance Package included Blind Spot Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS, and Lane Keeping Assist. The AMG Driver’s Package (GLA45 AMG) focused on performance enhancements with AMG Performance Suspension, Red Brake Calipers, and 20” Alloy Wheels. Standalone options allowed customers to select individual features such as Blind Spot Assist, PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, Panorama Sunroof, Heated Seats, Rearview Camera, KEYLESS-GO, and more, tailoring the 2015 GLA to their specific preferences.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA provided a compelling entry point into the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, offering a range of models with varying performance and a wealth of standard features and customization options to meet the needs of discerning buyers in the luxury compact SUV market.
