The top 3 things you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz GLA

1. There’s only one body style

Every premium brand needs to sell at least one compact SUV, and the German manufacturers all field more than one. Audi and BMW has “coupé-like” derivatives of their entry-level models (the Q2 and X2, respectively), while Mercedes-Benz offers the established GLA and its new 7-seater GLB sibling. 

It’s quite surprising that there isn’t a GLA Coupé yet, really – Mercedes is not known for leaving any market niche uncontested, so such a derivative probably isn’t entirely outside the realm of future possibility. But, for the moment, the SUV body style is all you can get for the GLA.

​Related: Shop for new and used Mercedes-Benz GLA cars for sale here.

2. Two engine options, but go for the diesel

While we await news regarding the local availability of the AMG-branded GLA 35 and GLA 45 S high-performance derivatives, the initial local model range is only available with front-wheel drive and in either petrol- or diesel flavours. Of these two, we’d recommend the GLA 200d, which employs a new-generation 2.0-litre turbodiesel to offer a more-agreeable blend between performance and fuel efficiency than the 1.33-litre turbopetrol in the GLA 200 could muster.

The GLA 200’s diminutive petrol mill offers a commendable 120 kW and 250 Nm, and features the same slick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox as the diesel variant. However, while this power unit works quite well in the A200 hatchback, it is slightly over-matched by the heftier GLA body shell. The diesel has a bit less peak power (110 kW), but its peak torque of 320 Nm out-muscles the smaller petrol engine to make for less-frenetic progress and greater fuel efficiency.

3. Options galore

In true Germanic fashion, the GLA’s basic specification is quite sparse, with many of the nice-to-haves relegated to the options list. Almost every aspect of the car’s trimmings can be upgraded by ticking some boxes: there are various upholstery- and trim combinations on offer, along with body styling add-ons and a plethora of alloy wheels to make for a high degree of cosmetic individuality.

Other notable add-on options include a panoramic sunroof, excellent Multibeam adaptive LED headlights, a head-up display, automatic tailgate operation, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, self-parking abilities, multi-zone climate control, and various infotainment- and audio upgrades. Starting with a base of R 749 040 and then adding high-tech options, a sunroof and pretty wheels will quickly elevate the pricetag to the million-Rand-mark, so budget-conscious buyers should apply restraint when ordering.

*Pricing was accurate at the time of writing, but is subject to change without prior notice.