Mercedes GLA – the multi-talented hatch-SUV, facelifted

The Mercedes GLA – yes, that high-rise car that plays the high hatch and cross-over SUV cards – has become a sales success in its segment, meaning it meets the requirements of its customers in an effective way.

While the point on whether it is more hatch than SUV can be debated, Mercedes insists it is their SUV version of the A-Class, hence the name GLA.  This premium car maker mentions proudly that it has the largest range of SUV offerings of any European manufacturer, counting 7:  GLA, GLC, CLC coupé, GLE, GLE coupé, GLS and the just-won’t-quit G-Class.

GLA facelift

The expressive design and clear character remain strong selling points, so to freshen these up for 2017 (it has been around internationally since 2013, and arrived in SA in early 2014) the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Mercedes-AMG GLA get the same visual enhancements, and some technological updates.

LED brake lights and indicators… in 3 intensities

The GLA facelift now features LED high-performance taillights with a multi-level function, while LED brake lights and LED indicators are getting smarter, controlled in 3 intensities:  full brightness by day, a medium level by night, and a lower level when the car is standing still at night.  Therefore the correct level of brightness is provided for varying light, weather and traffic conditions.

The changes include replacement of the optional previous bi-xenon by LED headlights.

Canyon Beige outfit

The new Canyon Beige metallic changes GLA like a fresh lick of paint.  This new colour breaks away from the usual monochromatic paints and, erm, paints the GLA in a more outdoorsy physical presentation.  Not pale beige as you might think, but a glistening bronze tan hue, and, with the recommended Night package, framed by gloss-black penliner for a ready-for-adventure look.

The images shown with this article are of the GLA in Canyon Beige with Night package.

More comfort, finer interiors

The bootlid / hatch can now be ordered with hands-free access, opened or closed by simply detecting one’s foot movement under the rear bumper.

Optional equipment now includes keyless access and a 360-degree camera with bird’s-eye view.

The Merc GLA interior is upgraded with new chrome detailing, and new cloth seat trim, where applicable.

AMG GLA

The Mercedes-AMG GLA45 4Matic is still the rather unique high-performance offering. 

Its front section has been sharpened, while the AMG Twin Blade radiator grille and new rear diffuser insert are now finished in silver chrome.

GLA facelift for SA

Models remain the same as for the pre-facelift, as a selection of manual and auto, front or 4Matic 4-wheel-drive, and petrol or diesel:

Mercedes-Benz GLA200 manual	R 485 400
Mercedes-Benz GLA200 auto	R 506 400
Mercedes-Benz GLA220d manual	R 513 000
Mercedes-Benz GLA220d auto	R 534 000
Mercedes-Benz GLA220d 4Matic auto	R 592 500
Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic auto	R 654 700
Mercedes-AMG GLA45 4Matic auto	R 856 700

Above prices exclude emissions tax, and include the 6-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan.