The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class emerges as a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, delivering a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury and versatile functionality. This model year offers a range of standard features and customizable options to cater to diverse driver preferences.
The base GLA250 model is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels that enhance its athletic stance, while privacy glass adds a touch of exclusivity and practicality. A roof rack expands cargo-carrying capabilities, and foglamps improve visibility in adverse weather conditions. The inclusion of a power liftgate adds convenience for loading and unloading cargo. Automatic wipers respond intelligently to changing weather, and cruise control enhances comfort during long drives.
Inside the GLA250, the driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat, ensuring optimal driving position, while the front passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat. Driver memory settings personalize the driving experience for multiple users. MB-Tex vinyl upholstery provides a durable and refined interior surface. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel further customizes the driving position. The 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, complete with a cargo pass-through, offer flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
Technologically, the 2016 GLA250 incorporates a 7-inch central display managed by a console-mounted control knob, serving as the hub for infotainment. Media interface compatibility for digital music players caters to modern audio preferences, alongside Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. The audio system features a CD player, HD radio, and a USB audio input for diverse media sources.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the all-wheel-drive GLA250 4Matic adds hill-descent control, valuable for navigating steep terrains, and an off-road status monitor displayed on the 7-inch screen. This monitor provides real-time data on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, bolstering its sport-activity credentials.
Several optional packages elevate the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class further. The Premium package enhances convenience with auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, and heated front seats for added comfort in colder climates. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the Harman Kardon audio system with satellite radio included in this package. The Multimedia package steps up the infotainment with a larger 8-inch screen, a hard-drive-based navigation system, voice controls for hands-free operation, and a rearview camera to aid in parking and maneuvering. An in-dash SD card reader expands media options, and five years of real-time traffic and weather updates keep drivers informed.
The Sport package sharpens the GLA’s aesthetics and handling with 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. Exclusivity can be further amplified with the Night package, available in conjunction with the Sport package, which adds black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents for a distinctive visual appeal. For interior refinement, the Interior package brings leather seating, front sport seats for added bolstering, multi-color ambient lighting to personalize the cabin ambiance, and MB-Tex dash trim. Safety and driver assistance are addressed by the Driver Assistance package, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor, contributing to a safer driving experience.
Beyond packages, standalone options allow for granular customization. These include select items from the packages, along with bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved illumination and modern styling, a panoramic sunroof to enhance the sense of spaciousness, parking sensors paired with an automated parking system for effortless parking, a power passenger seat with memory for personalized comfort, a standalone blind-spot monitor, and aluminum interior trim accents.
At the performance pinnacle is the AMG GLA 45, which comes standard with all-wheel drive. Building upon the GLA250’s standard features, the AMG GLA 45 boasts a significantly more powerful engine, a sport exhaust system for an exhilarating soundtrack, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and steering for dynamic handling, and upgraded brakes to match its increased performance. Bi-xenon headlights and styling enhancements, including a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes, visually distinguish the AMG model. Inside, the power passenger seat and ambient lighting are also standard.
AMG GLA 45 options mirror those of the GLA250, with the addition of Recaro sport seats for enhanced lateral support, an upgraded steering wheel for improved driver engagement, and a large rear spoiler for added aerodynamic flair. The Dynamic Plus package, evolving from the previous Driver’s package, includes 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for adjustable ride characteristics, a limited-slip front differential for optimized traction, a “Race” driving mode for track-focused performance, and an increased top speed. Carbon-fiber trim packages and the Aerodynamics Package further enhance both performance and visual appeal.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class provides a versatile and well-equipped entry into the luxury compact SUV market. With a broad spectrum of standard features, packages, and standalone options, it allows buyers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences, from the well-rounded GLA250 to the high-performance AMG GLA 45.
