2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 Review

 

Intro

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 presents a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology in the subcompact SUV segment. With its refreshed design and enhanced features, it aims to cater to drivers seeking both style and substance. Thanks to Mercedes-Benz Canada, I had one week to test drive the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Below is my unbiased review.

Exterior

The 2024 GLA 250 sports a refreshed exterior that exudes a modern and dynamic appeal. The front fascia features a redesigned grille flanked by new LED high-performance headlights, giving the SUV a more assertive look. The updated front bumper complements these elements, contributing to a cohesive and contemporary appearance.

From the side, the GLA 250 maintains its sleek profile, accentuated by smooth lines and optional 20-inch alloy wheels that enhance its dynamic stance. The addition of a new Spectral Blue Metallic paint option provides a fresh aesthetic for those seeking a distinctive appearance.

At the rear, redesigned LED taillights offer a contemporary lighting signature. The overall design is clean and uncluttered, with subtle chrome accents adding a touch of elegance. The power tailgate and panoramic sunroof further enhance the vehicle's practicality and appeal.

Interior

Inside, the GLA 250 offers a cabin that balances luxury with functionality. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including leatherette upholstery and a Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel, providing a premium feel throughout.

The front seats are heated and offer 8-way power adjustments with memory functions, ensuring comfort tailored to individual preferences. Rear-seat passengers benefit from increased legroom compared to previous models, making longer journeys more comfortable.

Ambient lighting with 64 color options allows for personalization of the cabin atmosphere, while the panoramic sunroof floods the interior with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness. The overall fit and finish reflect Mercedes-Benz's commitment to quality craftsmanship. The interior of a Mercedes-Benz never ceased to impress, the GL 250 is no exception. 

Infotainment

The GLA 250 comes standard with dual 10.25-inch displays running the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. This setup offers a seamless and intuitive interface for accessing various functions.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration facilitate effortless connectivity with smartphones, allowing access to apps, navigation, and media. An additional USB-C port with increased charging power ensures devices remain powered during travels.

The system also features an intelligent voice assistant that can be activated without the need for a wake-up phrase, streamlining interactions and enhancing convenience. Overall, the infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, contributing to an enjoyable in-car experience.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a prime consideration in the 2024 GLA 250, which comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Standard offerings include blind-spot monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and adaptive headlamps.

The Driving Assistance package has been upgraded to provide smoother intervention of Lane Keeping Assist through Active Steering Control. Additionally, the next generation of the Parking package supports longitudinal parking and offers an optional 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility during parking maneuvers.

These features work cohesively to provide a safer driving environment, instilling confidence whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys.

Driving Experience

Under the hood, the 2024 GLA 250 houses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This powertrain delivers 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and responsive performance.

The 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission facilitates smooth gear changes, contributing to a dynamic driving experience. The standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction across various road conditions, enhancing stability and control.

Fuel efficiency is commendable, with ratings of 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 L/100 km on the highway, making the GLA 250 an economical choice for daily commuting and extended trips alike.

The suspension system strikes a balance between comfort and agility, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure during spirited driving. The steering is precise, offering good feedback that enhances driver engagement.

Cargo Space & Storage

Practicality is a key aspect of the GLA 250's design. The vehicle offers 435 liters of cargo space with the rear seats in place, accommodating daily essentials with ease. For larger items or increased storage needs, folding the rear seats expands the cargo capacity to 1,430 liters, providing ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or other bulky items.

Additional storage solutions within the cabin, such as door pockets, a spacious glove compartment, and a center console bin, contribute to the vehicle's versatility, ensuring that personal items can be conveniently stowed during travel.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 impresses with its harmonious blend of style, performance, and advanced technology. Its refreshed design, coupled with a well-appointed interior and comprehensive safety features, positions it as a strong contender in the luxury subcompact SUV market. Whether navigating urban environments or embarking on longer journeys, the GLA 250 delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a premium compact SUV. In Canada, the GLA 250 starts at $51,000 CAD. Of course, the final price can get significantly higher depending on the options and packages chosen.