Entry-level luxury vehicles are significant as they offer a taste of what you experience in a luxury brand's ecosystem. They also show how well the crème de la crème can be dialled back to a smaller, more affordable package. When considering entry-level luxury, the recently updated Mercedes-Benz GLA range comes to mind.
Related: Mercedes-Benz GLA200 AMG Line (2024) - First Drive Review
We recently tested the petrol version of the updated GLA, but this time, we had a go with the diesel version, albeit with slightly different specifications. This review may serve as a comparison of sorts and our personal pick at the end of this.
Pros
- The powertrain suits this chassis very well
- The styling choices here are appealing
Cons
- Touch controls for the infotainment can be irksome
- Slight engine vibration can permeate into the cabin in some instances
Styling
Our test vehicle came fitted with the optional AMG Line styling kit along with 20-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels with a detailed but attractive design. The Night Package was also installed, which features some gloss black trim elements. The AMG Line kit adds an air of sportiness but keeps the package elegant. The styling here suits the fashion-conscious, too, and you will find yourself looking back at this vehicle as you park and walk away from it. Our test unit's optional Mountain Grey suits the GLA well. In front, we have the sports bumper with sculpted trims and vents, highlighted by black trim. The grille features chrome accents and an updated louvre design. Along the side, the shoulders of the GLA are toned, and the crossover SUV proportions are evident here. The body cladding is colour-coded, with only the side skirt being finished in black plastic with a gloss black trim.
At the rear, it's as hatchback as it gets, albeit with some sporty elements. While finished in black plastic, the lower rear bumper includes a gloss black trim, diffuser element and almost oblong shape tailpipes. The GLA errs more of the subtle side of the spectrum rather than outlandish and straight-up flashy design. Still, the execution here, I think, is done well as it's easy on the eyes, and the optional equipment featured on our test unit is the cherry on top.
Everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz GLA
Space and Comfort
Jumping inside the GLA 200d, it's essentially the same as an A-Class. Our test unit optionally came with a panoramic sunroof, memory seat, and premium package. With the updated GLA, the technology aspect has been dialled up. The latest MBUX Infotainment system is present, with voice commands and MercedesMe integration. There are more personalisation features to cater the GLA to your style, such as ambient lighting and new instrument cluster themes. The long digital screen houses the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. Our test unit came with the Advanced Sound System featuring 10 speakers, and it's quite up to the task of pumping out your favourite tunes with clarity and punch; there is a Burmester sound system offering as well, but this will handle the job appropriately.
The infotainment system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and is wireless, too, with a fuss-free connection. However, we would prefer some analogue controls to operate the system, as the touch controls on the steering wheel require a delicate touch and can be finicky to work with at times. A rotary dial for the volume in the centre console is welcomed, but something to manage track skipping would help.
A menagerie of materials graces the GLA's cabin, from the man-made leather seats to black Bertrix fabric with soft touch material found in the door cards and dashboard. Everything feels cushy to the touch but is also quality-appropriate for a premium product. The same is true for the steering wheel, which is a joy to use and looks stunning. Seat comfort is good, and the adjustability and memory seating will keep you comfortable on your journeys.
Where the GLA could improve, though, is the feel of some switchgear, such as the climate controls, which can have a more premium feel to them. You'll notice in the diesel variant that at idle, in some instances, some noticeable vibration can permeate into the cabin, but it's not the kind to shake your teeth loose. The GLA, now in updated form, also comes with much more standard equipment, further adding to the value-for-money element. Our test unit also came with the Easy Pack electronically operated boot to make it easy to pack into the 520-litre boot area.
We compared Mercedes-Benz GLA engines, and the efficiency crown goes to…
Performance
The GLA 200d has a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine making 110kW and 320Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. When looking at the petrol variant, despite the mild-hybrid technology, we think the diesel variant feels perkier and better suited to this application. This setup also comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel, allowing you to override, and the DCT programming is spot on.
The Drive
In this instance, the powertrain suits the GLA's chassis well and appeals to some of the cheeky nature of the vehicle. Puttering about in town, the powertrain is tame, and gearshifts are seamless and can be frugal. When you stretch the GLA's legs, however, it's rather rewarding, and the get-up-and-go nature of the powertrain doesn't have the handling lagging behind. The handling is sporty but also comfortable, even with 20-inch wheels. You can have more fun in this vehicle than you may think, considering it's a small diesel-powered crossover. The only thing that may halt the pace of the GLA is the stop-start system. While it works decently, the time it takes for the vehicle to switch back on and engage gear from stationary can be bothersome. However, this is remedied by switching the system off entirely.
Safety
You'll find the following notable safety equipment in the GLA 200d with optional equipment noted:
- Parking Package with reverse camera and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic
- Driving Assistance Package including - Blind Spot Assist, Mirror Package, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with CTA, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE System (Opt)
- Active Brake Assist
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring
- Traffic Sign Assist (Opt)
- 7 airbags (9 Opt)
Fuel Consumption
The GLA 200d consumes a claimed 5.1 L/100km, but we returned a lowest of 8.2 L/100km, but drove mostly urban during our test period.
Price
It's worth noting that Agility Finance is available for the GLA as a flexible financing solution if you have a mileage figure and how long you'd like to keep the vehicle in mind. You can check out the link here for further information.
| Model | Price |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Progressive | from R926 703 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 AMG Line | from R951 841 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA 200d Progressive | from R978 693 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA 200d AMG Line | from R1 008 393 |
*The pricing stated here was correct when published and is subject to change without further notice.
The top 3 things you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz GLA
The Verdict
The GLA 200d would be our pick compared to its mild hybrid petrol sibling, as the powertrain we found had better performance and efficiency, better matching the vehicle. As a taster of Mercedes-Benz ownership, I believe it is a good vehicle to consider. Some slight refinements in the vehicle switchgear would be welcome, but for a daily vehicle with more personalisation features, it's something we'll miss in our fleet.
