After dropping a small little teaser just last week, Mercedes-Benz has just pulled the covers off the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLA at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show. This facelift exercise sees an introduction of new technologies and conveniences, bringing the smallest SUV in Mercedes-Benz’s seven model SUV range closer to its larger siblings.
A new engine has been added to the range, bringing the total number of engine choices to seven: four petrol mills and three diesel mills. The high performance GLA 45 also receives an update which now comes with more power and a new name.
From the outside, the GLA gets LED High Performance headlights with LED DRLs that replace the current bi-xenon units. Like the A-Class, the LED daytime running lights are now a single bar design instead of individual LED modules. The LED tail lamps now feature new graphics with sparkly accents like on the E-Class. The intensity of the headlamps, tail lamps and turn signals vary according to the light conditions. This reduces the chances of dazzling other road users.
A number of aerodynamics optimisation measures were taken to further reduce the drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.28. These include a lower A-pillar step, redesigned exterior mirror housings, optimised rear silencer, roof spoiler and rear diffuser. This altogether contributes to a lower fuel consumption and NVH levels.
Inside, the GLA benefits from new seat covers, chrome trims and an 8-inch free-standing infotainment display. A 360-degree camera and powered tailgate with hands-free access (can be opened and closed with a swiping action of the foot) can be optioned for better convenience.
The GLA now comes with Active Brake Assist and Attention Assist as standard. The former autonomously applies braking when an oncoming collision is detected to reduce the impact or even prevent the collision while the latter signals the driver when signs of drowsiness are detected through steering behaviour.
Petrol variants of the GLA start with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with two states of tune, 120 hp and 200 Nm for the GLA 180 and 154 hp and 200 Nm for the GLA 200. The GLA 220 is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 184 hp and 300 Nm while the GLA 250 gets its power bumped to 208 hp and 350 Nm.
Diesel engines include a 1.6-litre turbodiesel with 108 hp and 260 Nm for the GLA 180d and a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with 134 hp and 300 Nm on the GLA 200d, while the GLA 220d gets a higher output of 168 hp and 350 Nm.
Regardless of engine choice, all GLAs can be equipped with comfort suspension, lowered comfort suspension or off-road comfort suspension which raises ride height by 30 mm. The GLA 250, GLA 200d and GLA 220d can be specified with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system whereas the GLA 220 can only be had with 4MATIC.
Deliveries are expected to begin from April this year with prices starting from as low as €29k (RM137k) for the GLA 180. If you’re wondering when Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will introduce this, we have reasons to believe it will be within this year. It will also be joined with the hot GLA 45 variant, no less.
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