The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV offers a compelling entry point into the luxury compact SUV segment, blending Mercedes-Benz sophistication with versatile SUV practicality. This detailed guide explores the key features, specifications, and performance aspects of the 2017 GLA, focusing on what makes it a desirable choice for discerning drivers.
The GLA250 model sets a high standard with its comprehensive list of standard equipment. Rolling on 18-inch alloy wheels and featuring privacy glass, fog lights, and automatic wipers, the GLA250 immediately presents a refined exterior. Convenience is enhanced by a power liftgate, cruise control, and dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring a comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.
Inside, the driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat with four-way power lumbar support, while the front passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat with a convenient fold-flat feature. Driver memory settings, a driver information display, and selectable driving modes further personalize the driving experience. The cabin ambiance is elevated with MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery and ambient interior lighting. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through add to the vehicle’s practicality and adaptability.
Alt text: Sleek 18-inch alloy wheels on a 2017 Mercedes GLA 250 SUV, enhancing its sporty and sophisticated appearance.
Technologically, the GLA250 is well-equipped with a 7-inch central display controlled via a console-mounted knob, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Entertainment options include a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports. Subscribers can also access Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system, offering features like a Wi-Fi hot spot and concierge services.
For those seeking enhanced all-weather capability, the GLA250 4Matic variant adds all-wheel drive along with hill descent control. An off-road status monitor integrated into the 7-inch display provides real-time information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, bolstering its sport-activity credentials.
Further enhancing the GLA250’s appeal are optional packages designed to elevate comfort, technology, and style. The Premium package introduces desirable features such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and ignition, and heated front seats for added comfort in colder climates. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the upgraded 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with satellite radio included in this package.
Alt text: Premium Harman Kardon sound system speakers inside the 2017 Mercedes GLA SUV, part of the optional Premium Package, delivering enhanced audio quality.
The Multimedia package focuses on technology upgrades, featuring a larger 8-inch screen, a navigation system for seamless route guidance, voice controls for hands-free operation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring connectivity on the go.
For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package adds 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. The Night package, exclusively available with the Sport package, further enhances the visual appeal with black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents, creating a distinctive and dynamic look.
The Interior package elevates the cabin ambiance with leather seating, front sport seats for added support, upgraded ambient interior lighting to personalize the mood, and MB-Tex dash trim for a touch of luxury. Safety and convenience are further enhanced by the Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, aiding the driver in maintaining safe driving practices. Lastly, the Convenience package adds auto-dimming mirrors and a garage door opener for everyday ease of use.
Standalone options offer further customization, including select items from the aforementioned packages, along with xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved visibility, a panoramic sunroof to bring in natural light, parking sensors combined with an automated parking system for effortless parking maneuvers, and a 14-way power passenger seat with memory for ultimate passenger comfort.
For drivers seeking high-performance thrills, the AMG GLA 45 is the pinnacle of the GLA range. Standard all-wheel drive and a more potent engine are just the beginning. It includes the GLA250’s standard features and adds a sport exhaust system, unique 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension and steering for dynamic handling, and upgraded brakes to match the increased performance. Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, a power passenger seat, MB-Tex/simulated-suede upholstery, and distinctive AMG styling cues like a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes further differentiate the AMG GLA 45.
Alt text: Aggressive front fascia of a 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 SUV, highlighting its performance-oriented design and sporty AMG styling elements.
AMG GLA 45 options largely mirror those of the GLA250, with additions such as 20-inch wheels, Recaro sport seats for superior lateral support, an upgraded steering wheel for enhanced feel, a large rear spoiler for aerodynamic enhancement, and a performance exhaust system for an even more exhilarating sound. Notably, the Sport or Night packages are not available for the AMG GLA 45, reflecting its already heightened sporty character. The exclusive AMG Dynamic Plus package for the GLA 45 adds adaptive suspension dampers, a limited-slip front differential, a Race driving mode for track enthusiasts, and an increased top speed, maximizing its performance capabilities. Carbon-fiber exterior trim, an Aerodynamics package, and the AMG Dinamica package further enhance both the performance and aesthetic appeal of this high-performance SUV.
Under the hood, 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 responsive seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for manual gear changes. In independent testing, the GLA250 4Matic demonstrated impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, surpassing Mercedes’ own estimate.
The AMG GLA 45 boasts a significantly more powerful version of the same 2.0-liter engine, generating an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A quicker-shifting iteration of the seven-speed transmission channels power to all four wheels. The AMG GLA 45 also features a three-mode stability control system allowing for customizable levels of intervention and includes launch control for optimized acceleration. Mercedes-Benz states a blistering 0-60 mph time of only 4.3 seconds for the GLA 45.
Both the GLA250 and AMG GLA 45 models incorporate an automatic stop-start function to enhance fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions. Fuel economy figures are commendable for the segment. The front-wheel-drive GLA250 achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway), while the GLA250 4Matic earns 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway). Even the high-performance AMG GLA 45 manages a respectable 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV presents a compelling blend of luxury, versatility, and performance in the compact SUV category. Whether opting for the well-equipped GLA250 or the exhilarating AMG GLA 45, drivers can expect a refined driving experience and a wealth of features synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand.
