How does it feel to drive the Mercedes-Benz GLA?

We all dream about luxury models. In the past, we had to look at them from a distance, because there were few of them and they were more expensive. Fortunately, manufacturers have expanded their product lines and nowadays, there are entry-level models that are affordable without forgetting the luxury brand they represent.

This is the case with the GLA SUV from Mercedes-Benz. It's a luxury product in its own right, but it's accessible to everyone. And frankly, if you're in the market for a nice, practical little SUV, you need to get behind the wheel of this one to understand just how interesting it is.

In fact, after one test drive, you'll want one, because the experience behind the wheel is unique. Here's how it feels to be behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

The environment

The first thing that strikes us is the interior environment that awaits us. Twenty years ago, the company's entry-level models offered less rich environments, admittedly. That's no longer the case today. As you sit in the driver's seat of the GLA, you'll find a very high quality dashboard with screens that offer the same kind of graphical clarity found in the family's top-of-the-line models.

And the equipment is also generous, especially with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system that offers a wide range of functions that make life easier.

Performance

Luxury manufacturers don't cut corners when it comes to powertrain suggestions. Mercedes-Benz is there to satisfy and it does so with engines that put a smile on your face.

With the GLA, there are two of them. The one in the base 250 model is a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder that offers 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. And if you want a little more nerve under the hood, more powerful versions of this powertrain are available. They suggest 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque with the AMG 35 version, 382 horsepower and 354 pound-feet with the AMG 45 variant.

Either way, you get what you pay for. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with each variant.

A solid ride

Finally, the other thing that's striking behind the wheel is the perfect compromise you discover between comfort and sportiness. When you want a smooth, comfort-oriented ride, the GLA serves it up on a silver platter. And when you want to show it you're in control, it responds with incredible promptness and is a docile student.

You won't find this kind of compromise anywhere else. To convince you of this, a test drive of the model is necessary. Come visit us so we can arrange it.