What's New for 2016
The
2016 GLA-Class gets an updated standard infotainment system with a 7-inch
screen. Also newly standard are keyless ignition, dual-zone automatic climate
control and adjustable-length front-seat cushions. A Dynamic Select drive-mode
selector debuts, while the optional rearview camera now offers a 180-degree
view. The AMG version boasts 20 additional horsepower and 18 more pound-feet of
torque, plus revised gear ratios and a new Dynamic Plus package with a
limited-slip differential. Finally, Mercedes' mbrace2 Connect package (online
and emergency services) is now standard for five years on all trims.
Introduction
Entering
its second year of production, the compact 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class retains
the same promise it offered last year. This baby Benz boasts an upscale blend
of hatchback and crossover traits, also offering good performance and a wide
range of features and options. The GLA shares its 106.3-inch wheelbase with the
CLA-Class sedan, making it the company's smallest SUV. But it's both shorter
and wider than the CLA, which gives it more aggressive proportions.
Being less frumpy
than the CLA, however, doesn't exactly cover the GLA in glory. Under the
surface, ride comfort and drivability challenges keep the GLA from reaching its
full potential. The taut suspension can be jarring over even mildly uneven
terrain, while potholes may have you wishing for a kidney belt. Moreover, the
seven-speed transmission's low-speed indecisiveness and sometimes belabored
responses take a bite out of driver confidence. Couple these downsides with a
relatively small cargo area and rear seat, and making a case for the GLA
becomes more difficult.
Competitors include
the Audi Q3 and Lexus NX 200t, both
of which ride more comfortably but suffer similar cargo and occupant constraints.
The all-new 2016 BMW X1 has a roomier interior and looks to be
a particularly tough rival for the Mercedes. The Mini Countryman is hardly the freshest face in this
segment, but it continues to appeal with its spunky turbocharged engines and
inimitable style. Although we awarded the hopped-up GLA45 AMG modelan Edmunds "B" rating due to its sizzling performance, it's
the "C"-rated GLA250
that's more representative. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has plenty of
promise, but depending on your needs, this hatchback-crossover mashup may not
fully deliver.
Body
Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2016 GLA-Class is offered in three trim levels: GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and AMG
GLA45.
The
GLA250 comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a roof rack,
foglamps, a power liftgate, automatic wipers, cruise control, a 14-way power
driver seat, a 10-way manual passenger seat, driver memory settings, MB-Tex
vinyl upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 60/40-split folding
rear seatbacks (with a cargo pass-through). Electronics features include a
7-inch central display with a console-mounted control knob, a media interface
for digital music players, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an audio
system with a CD player, HD radio and a USB audio input.
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