After extensive searching and deliberation, choosing the right Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV can be a journey. Purchasing a vehicle, especially a luxury compact SUV like the GLA, requires careful consideration of options, features, and overall driving experience. This review provides an in-depth look at the Mercedes-Benz GLA, drawing from an owner’s long-term experience and expert automotive insights to offer a balanced perspective for potential buyers in the English-speaking market.
One of the initial hurdles for any Mercedes-Benz buyer is navigating the extensive list of optional features and packages. It’s a common sentiment that some features considered standard in more mainstream vehicles are optional extras in the luxury segment. For those considering a GLA, understanding the available options for the specific model year is crucial. Creating a prioritized list of must-have features is a smart approach to streamline the search process and avoid disappointment later. For instance, something as seemingly basic as power-adjustable passenger seats might be an optional extra, depending on the model year and trim.
The search for a GLA with the desired specifications can be extensive, spanning across dealerships and requiring compromise on certain preferences. While aiming for a specific aesthetic like a white GLA Night Edition with black accents and rims, availability can be limited, necessitating flexibility and potentially settling for a slightly different configuration.
Beyond the vehicle itself, the purchasing experience at dealerships can be a significant factor. Navigating sales tactics and ensuring transparency throughout the buying process is essential. Instances of misinformation, last-minute changes, or oversights like pre-existing vehicle damage highlight the importance of thorough inspection and clear communication with dealerships. The ideal car buying experience should be seamless and trustworthy, and while some dealerships deliver this, others may fall short, emphasizing the need for buyer vigilance.
Let’s delve into a detailed examination of the Mercedes-Benz GLA, starting with the drawbacks, followed by the positive aspects, to provide a comprehensive overview.
Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV: Cons
When considering the Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks. These points are based on owner experiences and aim to provide a balanced perspective.
Infotainment and Technology Quirks
Alt text: Interior view of a Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV showcasing the infotainment screen and dashboard design.
Apple CarPlay integration, while available, requires a wired connection, a surprising limitation in a modern luxury vehicle. Many contemporary cars, even in lower segments, offer wireless Apple CarPlay. Furthermore, the GLA’s interior design seems to lack dedicated space for smartphone placement when connected via cable. The placement of the USB port in a small console without a cord management system can lead to cable obstruction and inconvenience. This aspect of in-car technology integration feels somewhat like an afterthought in an otherwise sophisticated vehicle.
Ride Comfort and Road Noise
The GLA is known for a firmer ride, often described as feeling every imperfection on the road surface. While some drivers may prefer a more connected feel to the road, others might find the ride less comfortable, especially on less-than-perfect road conditions. This characteristic is frequently mentioned in GLA reviews, so it’s an expected aspect of the driving experience. Additionally, the GLA can exhibit noticeable road and wind noise, detracting from the desired serene cabin environment typically associated with luxury vehicles.
Remote Start System Limitations
The remote start functionality via the Mercedes Me app, while a welcome feature, is not as straightforward as expected. It involves multiple steps within the app, including button presses and a PIN code entry, making it less convenient than simpler push-button systems. Furthermore, the remote start has limitations such as requiring a certain fuel level and automatically shutting off when the door is opened, which diminishes its practicality in everyday use. The inability to pre-set heated seats for remote start further reduces its effectiveness in cold weather conditions.
Missing Features Compared to Competitors
In a segment where features are often benchmarked against competitors, the GLA lacks certain functionalities that are becoming increasingly common. The absence of a side-view camera that activates with turn signals, a feature found in vehicles like the Honda Civic, is a noticeable omission. Similarly, adaptive headlights that turn with the steering direction, present in vehicles like Lexus models, are not available on the GLA, which might be a drawback for drivers prioritizing advanced lighting technology.
Interior Material Choices and Perceived Value
Alt text: Close-up of the “leather-ette” seats in a Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV, highlighting the material texture.
The standard floor mats in the GLA have been criticized for their basic quality, feeling more akin to indoor/outdoor carpeting than premium automotive mats. Upgrading to rubber tray mats is almost a necessity for durability and ease of cleaning. Similarly, the use of “leather-ette” (vinyl) seats instead of genuine leather in a vehicle marketed as luxury can feel like a cost-cutting measure that compromises the overall premium feel of the interior. While “leather-ette” may offer durability, it lacks the tactile richness and perceived luxury of genuine leather.
Limited Interior Storage and Practicality
Interior storage in the GLA is notably limited. The glove box and center console offer minimal space, barely accommodating essential items. This lack of storage can be a practical concern for drivers who carry various items in their vehicles regularly. While compact SUVs inherently have space constraints, the GLA’s storage limitations are more pronounced compared to some competitors.
Door Closure Sound and Perceived Solidity
The sound of the doors closing on the GLA lacks the solid “thud” often associated with Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The lighter, less substantial sound can contribute to a perception of reduced build quality compared to expectations for the brand.
Optional Features Considered Standard
Features like illuminated door sills and a garage door opener are offered as options, when they are often considered standard or expected in the luxury segment. The garage door opener, even when optioned, may not be compatible with all garage door systems, leading to further frustration and questioning the value proposition of such extras.
Climate Control Button Design
The climate control buttons are described as small, fiddly, and feeling somewhat cheap. Their size and placement can make them difficult to operate quickly and intuitively, requiring more attention than desired and potentially distracting the driver. Larger, more easily accessible and tactile buttons would improve usability and driver focus.
Infotainment Screen Integration
Alt text: Dashboard of a Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV showcasing the infotainment screen positioned above the air vents.
The infotainment screen, while of adequate size, is perceived by some as an “afterthought” in its design integration. Its placement atop the dashboard, rather than seamlessly integrated within it, can give it an appearance of being tacked on, rather than a cohesive part of the interior design.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy of the GLA, at under 25 miles per gallon, is considered underwhelming, especially for a compact SUV aiming for efficiency. It may not represent a significant improvement over larger, older vehicles, which could be a point of concern for buyers prioritizing fuel savings.
Cabin Noise Levels
Beyond road noise, the overall cabin noise level, including wind and engine noise, is higher than expected for a vehicle in this class. The noise intrusion can detract from the driving experience and make the cabin feel less refined and isolated from external sounds.
Sun Visor Design Flaw
A minor but notable design flaw is the driver’s side sun visor, which cannot be easily folded down with the left hand due to a lack of an indent for grip. This small inconvenience highlights a lack of attention to detail in certain ergonomic aspects of the interior.
Panoramic Sunroof Opening Size
While the GLA may feature a panoramic sunroof, the actual opening portion is relatively small. This can be disappointing for those expecting a large, expansive opening to create an open-air feeling, as the retractable section only reveals a limited portion of the panoramic glass.
Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV: Pros
Despite the noted cons, the Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV also presents several positive attributes that contribute to its appeal.
Premium Sound System
The optional upgraded Harmon Kardon sound system is a standout feature, delivering exceptional audio quality. While the standard system was not evaluated in comparison, the upgraded system is highly praised for its clarity, richness, and overall audio experience.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
Alt text: A Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV driving on a winding coastal road, emphasizing its handling and maneuverability.
The GLA excels in handling, offering nimble cornering, a tight turning radius, and responsive braking. These driving dynamics make it enjoyable to drive in various conditions, from city streets to winding roads. The GLA’s maneuverability is particularly advantageous in urban environments and tight parking spaces.
Comfortable and Adjustable Seats
The seats in the GLA are praised for their comfort and adjustability. A wide range of adjustments allows drivers and passengers to find a comfortable and supportive seating position. The seat adjustability, including ample rearward travel, contributes to a pleasant driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
Comprehensive Safety Features
The GLA is equipped with a range of important safety features, including a clear and wide-angle rearview camera, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. These features enhance driver awareness and safety, contributing to a more secure driving experience. However, it’s essential to verify the presence of specific safety options on the chosen vehicle, as they may not all be standard.
Hands-Free Liftgate
The hands-free liftgate, while requiring some practice to activate reliably, is a convenient feature for accessing the cargo area, especially when hands are full. Once the foot gesture is mastered, it adds a touch of modern convenience to everyday usability.
User-Friendly Mercedes Me App
The Mercedes Me app is commended for its clean and intuitive interface. It provides useful vehicle information and remote functionalities, such as fuel level monitoring, door lock status, and remote start. The app enhances the ownership experience by providing convenient access to vehicle information and control.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on the Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV
The Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV presents a mixed bag of attributes. While it offers appealing aspects like a premium sound system, engaging handling, comfortable seats, and a suite of safety features, it also exhibits drawbacks such as a firm ride, limited interior storage, some cost-cutting material choices, and technological quirks.
Ultimately, the Mercedes-Benz GLA serves as an entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand, offering a compact luxury SUV at a more accessible price point. It may appeal to buyers seeking the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge and a stylish, maneuverable vehicle. However, potential buyers should carefully consider their priorities and weigh the GLA’s pros and cons against their individual needs and expectations.
For those considering the GLA, it is highly recommended to thoroughly research available options, test drive the vehicle extensively, and ideally, rent one for an extended period to gain a comprehensive understanding of its driving dynamics and everyday usability. This hands-on experience will be invaluable in determining if the Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV is the right choice.
Remember to prioritize your must-have features and carefully evaluate if the GLA aligns with your preferences and requirements in a luxury compact SUV. Enjoy the ride, and make an informed decision that best suits your automotive needs.
