The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class emerges as a compelling option in the luxury compact SUV segment, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz sophistication and SUV versatility. This model year presents a range of features and customization options, catering to diverse preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize comfort and technology or performance and sporty aesthetics, the GLA Class 2017 has configurations to consider.
GLA 250: Standard Features and Core Offerings
The foundation of the 2017 GLA Class is the GLA250 model, which comes generously equipped with a host of standard features designed to enhance both comfort and convenience. Exterior elements include 18-inch alloy wheels, providing a sturdy stance and visual appeal. Privacy glass adds a touch of exclusivity and passenger comfort, while fog lights enhance visibility in adverse conditions. Automatic wipers and a power liftgate contribute to ease of use in everyday driving. Cruise control is standard for relaxed highway journeys, and dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passenger.
Inside the cabin, the driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat with four-way power lumbar support, while the passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat that folds flat for added cargo flexibility. Driver memory settings recall preferred seating and mirror positions. A driver information display keeps essential vehicle data readily accessible, and selectable driving modes allow customization of the driving experience. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery offers a refined feel, complemented by ambient interior lighting to create a pleasant atmosphere. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel ensures optimal driving posture, and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through enhance practicality.
Technologically, the GLA250 is equipped with a 7-inch central display controlled via a console-mounted knob, facilitating access to various vehicle functions. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling and audio streaming. A six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports provides ample entertainment options. Select Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system features, such as a Wi-Fi hot spot and concierge services, are available through subscription.
For those opting for the all-wheel-drive GLA250 4Matic, additional features cater to light off-road scenarios. Hill descent control assists in maintaining controlled speeds on steep declines, while an off-road status monitor integrated into the 7-inch display provides information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage.
Optional Packages: Tailoring Your GLA 250
Mercedes-Benz offers a variety of packages to personalize the GLA 250 and elevate its features. The Premium package is a popular choice, adding valuable enhancements such as a rearview camera for easier parking maneuvers and blind-spot monitoring to enhance safety. Keyless entry and ignition provide added convenience, along with heated front seats for colder climates. The audio experience is significantly upgraded with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, including satellite radio for a wider range of audio entertainment.
The Multimedia package focuses on technology upgrades, featuring a larger 8-inch screen for enhanced visibility and interaction. A navigation system is included for route guidance, and voice controls allow for hands-free operation of certain vehicle functions. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly integrates smartphone functionalities into the vehicle’s infotainment system.
For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package introduces 19-inch wheels and upgraded brakes for enhanced performance and visual appeal. It also includes more aggressively styled exterior elements. Building upon the Sport package, the Night package adds black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents for a distinctive and sophisticated look.
The Interior package elevates the cabin ambiance with leather seating surfaces and front sport seats for enhanced comfort and support. Upgraded ambient interior lighting further refines the interior atmosphere, and MB-Tex dash trim adds a touch of luxury. For advanced driver assistance, the Driver Assistance package includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, enhancing safety and convenience on longer drives. Lastly, the Convenience package adds auto-dimming mirrors and a garage door opener, further streamlining daily use.
Standalone Options: Further Customization
Beyond packages, a selection of standalone options allows for fine-tuning the GLA 250 to individual preferences. These include some of the features offered in packages, providing flexibility to select specific upgrades. Xenon headlights and LED taillights improve visibility and add a modern touch. A panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin and provides an airy feel. Parking sensors combined with an automated parking system simplify parking in tight spaces. For passenger comfort, a 14-way power passenger seat with memory is also available as a standalone option.
AMG GLA 45: High-Performance Variant
For drivers seeking exhilarating performance, the AMG GLA 45 represents the high-performance variant of the GLA Class 2017. Standard all-wheel drive is coupled with a significantly more powerful engine, a sport exhaust system for an enhanced auditory experience, and unique 19-inch wheels that visually distinguish it from the GLA 250. The AMG GLA 45 also features sport-tuned suspension and steering for sharper handling, and upgraded brakes to match the increased performance.
Standard features carried over from the GLA 250 are complemented by xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, a power passenger seat, and MB-Tex/simulated-suede upholstery that adds a sporty touch. Styling enhancements include a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes, further emphasizing its performance-oriented nature.
Options for the AMG GLA 45 largely mirror those of the GLA 250, but also include 20-inch wheels for an even bolder stance, Recaro sport seats for enhanced lateral support during spirited driving, an upgraded steering wheel for improved feel and control, a large rear spoiler that enhances aerodynamics, and a performance exhaust system for an even more pronounced engine note. Notably, the Sport or Night packages from the GLA 250 are not available on the AMG GLA 45, as it already incorporates a sporty aesthetic.
The AMG GLA 45 offers a unique Dynamic Plus package, which includes adaptive suspension dampers for adjustable ride firmness, a limited-slip front differential for enhanced traction, a Race driving mode for track-focused performance, and a higher top speed. Carbon-fiber exterior trim, an Aerodynamics package, and the AMG Dinamica package further enhance both performance and visual appeal for the discerning enthusiast.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for manual gear selection. In independent testing, the GLA250 4Matic demonstrated brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, surpassing Mercedes’ own estimate.
The AMG GLA 45 elevates performance to a higher level, utilizing the same 2.0-liter engine but tuned to deliver an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A quicker-shifting version of the seven-speed transmission channels power to all four wheels. The AMG GLA 45 also features a three-mode stability control system, allowing drivers to tailor the level of electronic intervention, and includes launch control for optimized acceleration from a standstill. Mercedes-Benz states a 0-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds for the AMG GLA 45.
Both the GLA250 and AMG GLA 45 models incorporate an automatic stop-start function to improve fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions. Fuel economy is commendable for the segment. The front-wheel-drive GLA250 achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway), while the GLA250 4Matic is rated at 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway). Even the high-performance AMG GLA 45 maintains reasonable fuel consumption, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
In conclusion, the Mercedes Gla Class 2017 presents a well-rounded compact SUV, offering a compelling mix of luxury, versatility, and performance. From the well-equipped GLA 250 to the exhilarating AMG GLA 45, the 2017 model year provides a range of options to suit diverse preferences and driving needs within the premium compact SUV market.
