When the first Mercedes ML arrived in 1998, it would have taken a very brave speculator to predict just where the SUV market would find itself 15 years on. With faux 4x4s (and indeed some real ones) now available in all shapes and sizes, Mercedes is to belatedly join the junior SUV fold with the GLA.
Is that a bit of Infiniti influence from behind?
First off, it shouldn't be confused with the C-Class 4Matic-based GLK, the model denied to Britain because of the complexity in converting it to RHD. Instead the GLA is based on the A-Class platform that also underpins the B-Class and
CLA
; it will use the same powertrains too. Presumably the
A45 AMG
engine and gearbox will fit also then...
At 4.4 metres long, 1.5 metres high and 1.8 metres wide, the GLA's dimensions are within millimetres of the Range Rover Evoque, Audi Q3 and BMW X1. This isn't surprising given the popularity of all three, Mercedes naturally keen to grab a slice of a very lucrative market.
The styling follows the Audi and BMW example, i.e. by making the hatchback a bit more butch. The GLA is clearly derived from the A-Class both inside and out, though that isn't necessarily a bad thing. The aggressive lines of the latest A-Class work better on a larger silhouette and the cabin looks suitably lavish. The wood and chocolate leather combo is probably best avoided though...
Beach probably the GLA's off-road limit
Underneath the body is suspension design 'for guaranteed recreational fun' according to Mercedes. The McPherson strut/multi-link set-up is fairly conventional, whilst components of note include three control arms per wheel and aluminium wheel carriers for lower unsprung masses. And if that's your idea of recreational fun, well, there's a career in chassis engineering awaiting.
The four engine options are straight from the A-Class, with the GLA200 at the start of the range. Its 1.6-litre turbo makes 156hp and 184lb ft and will come with a six-speed manual. The GLA250 makes 211hp and 258lb ft, with a seven-speed 7G-DCT the only transmission choice.
British sales are likely to be diesel-dominated though, and two variants of Mercedes' 2.1-litre diesel will be available in the GLA; the 200CDI makes 136hp and 221lb ft, the 220CDI 170hp and 258lb ft. Initially, this looks rather underpowered against its rivals given the X1 is available as a 218hp 25d but more powerful diesels will surely follow. For now Mercedes would rather boast of a claimed 65mpg combined fomr the 200CDI, no doubt helped by a low 0.29Cd drag co-efficient.
Aluminium 'lends a new, modern touch' apparently...
Only the higher-powered diesel and petrol have the 4Matic four-wheel drive option. An electro-hydraulically controlled multi-disc clutch works with the DCT for instantaneous distribution of power between the front and rear axles. Mercedes also claims the latest 4Matic system is lighter than those offered in rivals.
All 4WD GLAs come with Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), or a hill descent system in layman's terms. A standard off-road display will show when the DSR is active, as well as steering angle, transmission mode, gradient percentage, roll angle and a compass. Though it works with the standard infotainment, you suspect the off-road display will be at its best with the optional Comand Online system.
That Mercedes defines rough terrain as 'the beach, loose ground and unsurfaced gradients' implies that the GLA won't be the ultimate mud-plugger. But, should you make it to the top of an unsurfaced gradient, the GLA will allow your iPhone to use Glympse and share the location with selected persons...
Following its Frankfurt debut, Mercedes will take orders for the GLA from November. Which is when, conveniently enough, is when the Porsche Macan will make its motor show debut in LA. Both will go on sale in 2014, offering yet more diversity in a bustling sector. Can the Evoque remain on top?