Merc's GLA-class is a firm favourite with the fashionista mom set. It has style for days, and is not too big or too small. But there are several other reasons why this premium baby SUV is a winner if you have a small family.
1. It's German, so it's safe.
When the GLA underwent the EuroNCAP crash test in 2014, it attained one of the highest scores for adult occupant protection, and the full five stars, of course. A whole host of active and passive safety systems are standard, including traction and stability control, ABS/EBD/brake assist, hill-start assist, a tyre pressure sensor, seven airbags, fatigue detection ('Attention Assist'), cruise control, voice control for the infotainment system, easy-to-reach ISOFIX fittings, daytime running lamps, and headlight adjustment. It's just a pity that park distance control is optional, since the GLA does not come cheap.
Related: Mercedes brings more GLAmour to premium SUV-party (2017 Facelift)
2. The cabin is lavishly appointed
Ladies love Merc interiors, and the modern yet classical look of the GLA has been well-received. Sure, there are a few budget-looking trim bits in places that can only be seen upon close inspection, but mostly the GLA's cabin is luxurious, cosy, ergonomic, and extremely comfortable. Leather seats are not standard, though, but I would definitely opt for that extra because you want to be able to wipe down the seats if a little one has as spill of some sort.
3. It's quite practical, despite its compact size
The interior of the GLA is a fair bit larger than the outgoing A-Class cabin, and even taller adults will have enough room on the rear seat. The boot is forty percent larger than the previous A-Class.
A centre armrest with pop-out cupholders is a nice touch, and the door cards offer space big enough for a one-litre waterbottle, and then some. The rear windows are a little small though, which may prevent younger kids from enjoying the outside view, and the rear window could have been a little larger, but space is not an issue. And fitting those child seats is easier than in most other cars.
Related: BMW X1 vs. Audi Q3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA
4. The GLA's running costs are lower than you might think, and it's going to keep its value
The 1.6-litre turbo-engine is a lively little thing with 115kw and 250Nm torque, yet fuel consumption is a mere 6-8 litres per 100 km on average. You're looking at a fuel range of about 700-800 litres from one tank, which is pretty decent. Also, Merc increased their maintenance plan to five years/100 000 km for additional peace of mind. There are no new diesels in the line-up, but you can opt for a used one which will save you plenty on fuel. (See related article below)
Related: A GLA can let its hair down (GLA 220d 4MATIC)
And, sales figures say that the GLA-class is in constant demand. No cars seem to have better resale value then SUVs these days, and if they come from manufacturers in Stuttgart, Bavaria, or Wolfsburg, even better!
5. You can take it (almost) anywhere
If you stick with the sensible, standard 17-inch tyres you will be able to do some off-roading as long as the dirt road is in a fair condition and you don't try to drive up the side of a mountain — that's better left to the Geländewagen! The GLA's ground clearance is cm so you will probably be able to park wherever you like. The top-tier models offer 4MATIC (all-wheel-drive) as standard.
Pricing starts from R530 677 for the GLA200 (base model). You can learn more about the GLA on the
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