2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Review

There are few models that can be credited with refreshing and rejuvenating Mercedes-Benz modern image like the previous-generation A-Class hatchback, but more important than that was the platform on which it was developed eventually spawned two equally important variants: the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

The latter was something that proved to be incredibly popular, and not merely because crossovers were really starting to come into popularity across the entire spectrum of the automotive market. It was a well-designed and engineered product, working within the constraints of the A-Class to deliver a unique experience that provided a bit more space and a bit more comfort.

Now as the A-Class has proceeded to the next generation, the GLA-Class too has had to evolve and is now in its second generation. This particular model was launched here just at the end of 2020 in two variants: the GLA 200 Progressive Line, and the GLA 250 AMG Line. Both models were fully imported, and that hasn’t changed over the last year or so.

In June 2022, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced the locally assembled Mercedes-AMG GLA35 4Matic, adding to the G.L.A. range. Unlike its A.M.G. sibling, the Mercedes-AMG A35 sedan, this was the first time that the performance-oriented G.L.A. was offered in Malaysia. 

What has changed is the dropping of the GLA 200 Progressive Line, at least for the time being. That’s right: there is just one variant of the GLA-Class that you can currently buy in Malaysia, so let’s get into it.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Specifications

One variant of the normal GLA-Class means there’s only one engine to think about – and in this case it’s the same turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that powers the A250. It produces a decent 224 PS and 350 Nm of torque, and delivers power exclusively to the front wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch type automatic transmission.

An interesting omission here is the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system of the previous generation, which was one of the selling points for the GLA-Class that made it that bit more practical in inclement weather and adverse conditions. There is a very slim possibility this may be added during the transition to local assembly if that comes, though it’s not one we would hold out hope for.

There aren’t as many fancy mechanical items to see here for the normal GLA – passive dampers are as standard, though the spring setup is a little lower and probably a little stiffer than the currently discontinued GLA 200 Progressive Line.

For the GLA35 In terms of raw specifications, the GLA35 is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 306hp and 400Nm, sending drive to all four wheels via the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

Top speed is electronically pegged at 250km/h, and it can do the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.2-seconds. The GLA35 is also fitted with dynamic dampers (A.M.G. Ride Control) that works with the A.M.G. Dynamic Select drive modes.

With this generation of the GLA-Class, there’s a bit more of a distinction between it and the regular A-Class. It’s a larger, taller vehicle – more SUV than crossover in proportions – and this is reflected in the dimensions. The height has grown to 1,611 mm from 1,494 mm, with a width of 1,834 mm, length of 4,410 mm, and wheelbase of 2,729 mm.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Exterior

As mentioned earlier, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has definitely evolved as a product, not just in relation to the previous generation, but also in relation to the A-Class on which it is based. The bodylines are more distinct, with a softer, more approachable look than the hard edges of the last generation. LED headlights come as standard, flanking an imposing front grille.

The AMG Line package that comes with the GLA 250 adds a more aggressive front spoiler and glass black trim, as well as chrome pins for the trapezoidal grille. 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels sit at each corner, and a rear diffuser-ish trim piece completes the look at the rear.

The front look of the GLA35 is distinguishable via its AMG grille, which features vertical louvres. The aggressive look of the front end is also helped by AMG's front splitter which also features lateral louvres.

The rear of the performance crossover also features an AMG apron and spoiler lip, and finishing off the aggressive look of the rear are twin tailpipes.

The GLA35 is also equipped with 20-inch A.M.G. 5-spoke alloy wheels in matte black.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Interior

The inside of the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class may look familiar – almost like a carbon copy of the regular A-Class hatchback or sedan. The difference here is that in accommodating the extra height and SUV nature, the dashboard and window sills have been raised to fit more appropriately, taking away a marginal amount of all-round visibility but adding a sense of security.

Trim wise, you get a mix of Artico leather and Dinamica microfiber for the seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel for that sporty edge in line with the AMG package, and brushed aluminium trim. The dual-screen layout is still prominent, stretching across two-thirds of the dashboard and combining your instrument cluster and infotainment system in a neat, cohesive package.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Safety Features

Safety functionality for the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is similar to other models in the lineup, with autonomous emergency braking and blind spot monitoring coming as standard, as well as parking assist. This is on top of the regular electronic safety aids like electronic stability control, electronic traction control, ABS with EBD, and the like.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Strengths & Weakness

Things have admittedly changed for the GLA-Class, and it’s not merely on its own efforts. The positioning of the previous model was occasionally bolstered by wait listing for the regular hatchback, and the CLA-Class at the time was a bit of a compromise in terms of headspace. The problem now is the GLA-Class has to fight against the A-Class sedan – a new product for this generation – and the sedan is still a very popular option among luxury vehicles.

The GLA-Class has also tended more towards SUV aspirations, which doesn’t necessarily suit the styling or requirements of a younger demographic. Still though, it represents an excellent, practical step up, and a comfortable alternative to the A-Class if you have a growing family but still don’t want to commit to a full-sized luxury SUV in the form of something like a GLC-Class. It also has one of the most modern interiors of the Mercedes-Benz range, as the other products are still waiting for their generational cycles to come to an end before they can receive a proper, full-scale makeover in terms of interior design.

While the GLA35 is a performance-oriented vehicle, it is still much at heart a crossover which can provide the daily driving comfort you can expect from a vehicle of this genre. 

Of course this is one of its strengths but also one of its weaknesses. For those expecting the vehicle to be a full fire-breathing AMG, you might be disappointed as the driving dynamics is not as good as the rest of its AMG siblings, including the A35 sedan. The main reason for this is because it's still a tall-ish vehicle, so you can't really argue with physics. 

With that being said, if you're looking for a crossover with extra pep, than this is the vehicle you should go for, but don't expect the full-blown AMG experience where driving dynamics are concerned. Its sibling the Mercedes-AMG A35 is better at providing the AMG driving characteristics.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Price

The sole variant of the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is the GLA 250 AMG Line, and it goes for RM 285,336.66. This isn’t a significant discount over the regular pricing, as it is still a fully imported model which means that exemptions aren’t quite as strong. The CKD 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA35 4Matic has a starting price of RM363,888, which can go up even further depending on optional extras. All GLAs come inclusive with a four-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 2021-2022 Features

Like any modern Mercedes-Benz product, features are plentiful and well thought out. Single zone automatic climate control is present, as are paddle shifters and AMG illuminated treadplates. 64-colour ambient lighting helps to set the mood – whichever colour you choose really – making your night drives that little bit more entertaining. There is a hands-free powered tailgate for your convenience, and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats to give you extreme flexibility in packaging and seating options. Keyless entry and start are provided.

The MBUX is also worth a mention – the party piece so to speak – split across the two aforementioned 10.25 inch displays that dominate the width of the dashboard. You can control the system via voice commands, a controller on the centre console, or steering wheel switches. The flexibility of the system, the intuitive interface, and the overall look and feel is really fitting of a modern luxury car, and something the competition still can’t quite match.