2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA Compact SUV

Mercedes-Benz have just revealed all the juicy details regarding their all-new compact SUV model. Called the GLA, the newcomer is the smallest Mercedes 4×4 you can buy, today, well maybe not today, but soon – once its in the showrooms.

The GLA-Class is the fourth of a total of five new compact models from Mercedes-Benz. The sales figures alone show how well the new compact models are being received by customers: In the first half of 2013, for example, 173,362 units of the A- and B‑Class and the new CLA Coupe were delivered worldwide (+58.0%).

The Mercedes GLA has been designed more as a daily driver, suited to the needs of a family rather than a dedicated outdoorsman. However it’s still retains some of the 4WD options that might appeal to drivers who genuinely want to get muddy from time to time. Things like the optional 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system and DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation). The 4MATIC equipped GLA models are also equipped with an off-road transmission mode. In the off-rode mode, the gearshift points and accelerator characteristics are modified to suit light off-road terrain and loose surfaces.

Stylewise the Mercedes-Benz GLA does away with the typical boxyness usually found on the company’s 4×4 models. In its place is some fairly discreet and unassuming sheetmetal. The body was designed to be aerodyanamic, and offers a Cd figure of 0.29, helping to reduce fuel consumtion. Numerous measures have also been taken to reduce wind noise in the Mercedes-Benz GLA. These, for example, include a multi-level door sealing concept, additional sealing of the joint between the tailgate and the roof and side seals on the tailgate. Particularly rigid window frames prevent the airflow from pulling on the doors at higher speeds, and reduce vibrations. External noise has also been minimised by the low A-pillar step and exterior mirrors connected to the body by a stem.

The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLA is versatile and has a cargo area which can be expanded considerably by lowering the rear seat backs. Access to the rear is facilitated by the low sill and the wide tailgate, which opens automatically as an option. A wide variety of seat upholsteries in different material (e.g. leather, fabric, fabric/leather) and color combinations is offered to cater to all tastes. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are available as an optional extra. Set into a galvanised surround, the controls for the optional “electric seat adjustment with memory” are arranged on the interior door panels in typical Mercedes style.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA will be offered with a variey of engine choices, although the drivetrain options will differ depending on the country. Four of the first drivetrain options to be available are the GLA 200, GLA 250, GLA 200 CDI and the GLA 220 CDI.

Model	GLA 200	GLA 250/ GLA 250 4MATIC	GLA 200 CDI	GLA 220 CDI/ GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC
Number of cylinders/arrangement	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line
Displacement (cc)	1,595	1,991	2,143	2,143
Rated output (hp at rpm)	156 at 5300	211 at 5500	136 at 3600-4000	170 at 3600-4000
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	250 at 1250-4000	350 at 1200-4000	300 at 1400-4000	350 at 1600-3200

Numerous driving assistance systems are also featured in the Mercedes-Benz GLA to improve safety. Standard-fit features for the SUV include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect against collisions from a speed of only 4 mph.

This feature combines with DISTRONIC PLUS (an optional extra) to become COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. This incorporates an additional function: When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124 mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 18 mph, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 12 mph.

Established assistance systems, such as the optional Lane Tracking package with Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist or Adaptive Highbeam Assist, are also available for the GLA. Active Parking Assist (again optional) allows automatic parking in parallel and end-on parking spaces.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA will make its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.