2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA ushered in a new generation for the brand's entry-level luxury SUV, bringing a more mature design, improved practicality, and enhanced technology. Slotting beneath the GLC, the GLA aims to attract younger buyers and those seeking a premium compact SUV experience without the larger footprint of its siblings.
Highlights
- Engine: The 2020 GLA comes standard with a robust 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This powerplant delivers a healthy 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration for city driving and confident highway merging. It's paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, known for its quick and smooth shifts.
- Safety Features: Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2020 GLA is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. Standard features include:
- Active Brake Assist: This system uses radar and camera sensors to detect potential collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists. If a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react, the system can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: This feature monitors the driver's behavior for signs of drowsiness. If it detects fatigue, it will issue visual and audible warnings, suggesting the driver take a break.
- Crosswind Assist: Especially beneficial on highways and in windy conditions, this system uses the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to stabilize the vehicle when hit by strong side winds, helping the driver maintain their lane.
- Optional features often available include Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC).
- Trims: The 2020 GLA was primarily offered in two main trims:
- GLA 250: This is the foundational model, offering the strong turbocharged engine and a well-appointed interior with a focus on comfort and essential luxury features.
- GLA 250 4MATIC: This trim adds Mercedes-Benz's 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions and offering a more confident driving experience on slippery surfaces.
- Notable Aspects:
- Redesigned Exterior: The 2020 GLA adopted a more upright and conventionally SUV-like profile compared to its predecessor, increasing interior space and offering better visibility.
- Improved Interior Space: The redesign resulted in a more accommodating cabin, particularly for rear-seat passengers, and a more practical cargo area.
- MBUX Infotainment System: The GLA benefits from the highly acclaimed Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system. This advanced infotainment system features a dual-screen setup, intuitive voice control ("Hey Mercedes"), and sharp graphics, making it a class leader in user interaction.
- Refined Ride Quality: While still offering engaging handling, the 2020 GLA provides a more comfortable and compliant ride than previous generations, making it a pleasant companion for daily commutes and longer journeys.
What to Expect
Owning a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA generally signifies a premium ownership experience. Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for their quality materials, solid build, and refined driving dynamics. Expect a comfortable and quiet cabin, a user-friendly and technologically advanced infotainment system, and a powertrain that offers a good balance of performance and efficiency.
- Maintenance: As with any luxury vehicle, expect maintenance costs to be higher than those of non-premium brands. Regular scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections, will be crucial to keeping the GLA in optimal condition. It's advisable to utilize a certified Mercedes-Benz dealership or a reputable independent specialist for servicing to ensure proper care and the use of genuine parts.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for a Mercedes-Benz GLA will likely be higher than for a comparable non-luxury vehicle. This is due to factors such as the vehicle's purchase price, the cost of parts and labor for repairs, and the advanced safety and technology features that can be more expensive to replace or repair. Obtaining quotes from multiple insurance providers is recommended to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2020 GLA is a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Limited Rear-Seat Space for Adults: Despite the improved interior, the rear seats can still feel a bit snug for taller adults on longer journeys, especially when compared to larger compact SUVs.
- No AMG Performance Variant: For the 2020 model year, there wasn't a high-performance AMG variant of the GLA. Buyers seeking the ultimate in performance from Mercedes-Benz's compact SUV would need to look at other models or wait for subsequent model years.
- Turbo Lag (Minor): While the engine is responsive, there can be a very brief moment of turbo lag before the full power is delivered, particularly from a standstill or at very low RPMs. This is a characteristic of many turbocharged engines and is generally not a significant issue for everyday driving.
Overall Summary
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a strong contender in the compact luxury SUV segment, offering a sophisticated design, a potent turbocharged engine, a wealth of advanced safety features, and the intuitive MBUX infotainment system. Its improved practicality and refined driving experience make it a more appealing option for a broader range of buyers. While rear-seat space might be a consideration for some, the GLA 250 and GLA 250 4MATIC deliver a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and performance expected from the Mercedes-Benz brand, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking an entry into the luxury SUV market.
