We take a new version of Merc’s baby SUV, the GLA 220d 4Matic Activity Edition, for a quick spin.
Our first drive didn’t really give us the chance to explore the ride quality of this GLA 220d; we expect it to remain unchanged since there are no significant mechanical changes in the suspension department. However, any alterations to suspension rates to compensate for the added weight of 4Matic all-wheel-drive system might make a slight difference in how well the car handles bumpy roads. When it comes to handling though, the all-wheel-drive system certainly seems to provide a bit of extra grip when tossing the car around bends. But that should be taken with a pinch of salt as the inside roads of the Mercedes-Benz plant weren’t really the optimal place to test the car’s corner- carving abilities.
Should I buy one?
The GLA 22d Activity Edition is priced at Rs 38.51 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune). If you’ve always liked the GLA and felt that it needed some more ability to tackle tough terrain, then this GLA 220d 4Matic Activity Edition is certainly for you. But for those who have no intentions of leaving the tarmac, the more affordable GLA 200d should suit them just fine. Mercedes-Benz is set to announce pricing in the next few days so we’ll have a better picture of just how much value this new version brings to the table. That being said, the GLA still remains a fairly attractive soft-roader that feels quite classy as well as comfy on the insides. And now with its added abilities, it deserves even more consideration than before.