Mercedes GLA review, first drive

The three-pointed star’s smallest SUV just got bigger and bolder in its new generation and we’ve gotten behind the steering wheel to see how different it is from its earlier version.

As with any new model of an existing car, the GLA too is bigger than before and that might be its biggest plus but more on that a little later. For now, let’s take a closer look at the stylish new exterior for Mercedes’ smallest SUV. The new-gen GLA sees the most prominent visual changes made to the front of the car. New LED headlamps, the jewel-like studded grille that has a bold centrepiece to remind you that it’s from Merc’s SUV family and a sporty lower bumper mixes up the rugged appeal of an SUV with modern, chic looks. The new 19-inch alloy wheels and the squared wheel arches make up the sides while the new two-piece tail lamps make up the redesigned rear. Overall, the new GLA is a handsome looking compact SUV and the bigger dimensions are what firmly set it apart from the A-Class hatchback. Step inside and there are even bigger changes in store. Two huge 10.25-inch screens make up this panel on the dashboard and definitely gets your attention first. Mercedes has loaded the new GLA with the latest iteration of MBUX along with voice commands being prompted by a “Hey Mercedes”. What follows after may or may not work but it can surely carry out simple functions like setting the air-con temperature based on how hot or cold you’re feeling. You also get modern features like wireless charging, USB C ports for faster wired charging, a touch pad, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay of course, 64 colours ambient lighting that looks brilliant and a dashboard layout with aluminium trims that looks really classy. Dual zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof in the 220d 4MATIC ups the luxury quotient while safety gets updated too. Seven airbags aside, you do get active brake assist which is a radar-guided system so if the GLA thinks that you’re too close to the car in front and a collision is imminent then it’ll apply the brakes automatically.