Mercedes GLA brings an added shot of panache to the compact luxury SUV segment. But does it drive as good as it looks?
What’s the cabin like?
The GLA’s interiors are identical to the A-class and that’s no bad thing. You get the same high grade materials and fit and finish that bowled us over when we first tested Merc’s baby hatch. The plastics feel like they’ve come from more expensive Mercs and bits like the metallic-finish plastic strip that runs across the dashboard is an example of the top-class materials used all over.
The driving position is good and the extra height of the GLA over other compact Mercs makes a perceptible difference with visibility. You sit taller and the view of the road is better too.
The rear seats feel disappointingly cramped. The seats, though well-cushioned, are short on under thigh support and the back rest angle is a touch too upright which also compromises comfort.
In comparison to the small cabin, the boot is quite generous and can swallow upto 421 litres of luggage.
The GLA will initially come with one trim level each for the petrol and diesel variant and both will be generously equipped with standard features like a panoramic roof, a Harman Kardon sound system, tyre pressure monitoring control and a raft of safety features, which include seven airbags and electronic nannies like Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR) anti-lock brakes(ABS) and Brake Assist System (BAS) are all standard. For a carmaker obsessed with safety for over a century, this is one area where Mercedes hasn’t stinted.