Mercedes-Benz of Owings Mills
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Mercedes-Benz of Owings Mills

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA

New for 2016

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA benefits from an updated infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen. Also standard now are keyless ignition and dual-zone automatic climate control. This year sees the debut of a Dynamic Select drive-mode selector, while the previously optional rearview camera now offers 180-degree view. In other updates, the AMG® version now generates an additonal 20 horsepower and 18 more pound-feet of torque, pluse revised gear ratios and a new Dynamic Plus package with a limited-slip differential. Last but not least, mbrace 2 Connect package is now standard for five years on all trims. 

Time to Shine

Compact size can't diminish the shine of the Three-Pointed Star. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA fuses authentic SUV versatility with the passion for excellence and driving that defines each and every Mercedes-Benz model. It may be a newer model, but the GLA is quickly establishing a reputation for fun, fuel-efficiency, and flexibility. 

Powertrains and Performance

Elegant underpinnings aren’t the only thing the GLA shares with its sedan sibling. Like the CLA, the GLA employs a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s good for 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels or to all four wheels via available 4MATIC® all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

In addition to the GLA250 4MATIC® mentioned above, Mercedes-Benz also offers a beefier GLA45 4MATIC® AMG® version. This particularly model dials performance levels to 11 and extracts 375 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque from the same 2.0-liter engine.

Poor performance simply isn't luxurious, which is why Mercedes-Benz felt it important to ensure the GLA return respectable fuel economy. To save fuel, both the GLA250 and GLA45 AMG® feature an automatic stop-start function that turns off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

That fuel-saving technology, coupled with Mercedes-Benz intelligent engineering, results in an EPA-estimated rating of 29 mpg combined (25 city/35 highway) for base models with front-wheel drive,* while the GLA45 AMG® returns 25 mpg combined (22 city/29 highway).* 

Features and Trims

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a four-door compact SUV that starts at $32,500.* It comes in three flavors: GLA250, GLA250 4MATIC®, and a more performance-oriented GLA45 AMG®.

GLA250 models boast a healthy list of standard features that include 18-inch wheels, roof rails, and flat-folding rear seats. New for 2016 is an updated infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen. Also standard are keyless ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, and adjustable-length front-seat cushions.

Further boosting the GLA250 4MATIC's® sport-activity credentials are hill descent control and an off-road transmission mode. All GLA250 models come with a power liftgate, air conditioning with micron filtering, and a 14-way power driver seat with memory.

Meanwhile, a central controller, hands-free Bluetooth® interface, complete with Bluetooth® audio streaming, and HD radio receiver round out the GLA250’s audio and entertainment features.

Naturally, drivers can further enhance their GLA with a number of optional packages. A total of eight packages are available. These consist of a Premium Package, Driver Assistance Package, Sport Package, mbrace® Plus, Interior Package, Multimedia Package, mbrace® Package, and Mercedes-Benz Apps.

The GLA45 AMG® takes things further with a number of enhancements of its own. In addition to applicable carryover features, the CLA45 AMG® adds MB-Tex/DINAMICA upholstery, sport seats, and 19-inch AMG® twin five-spoke wheels.

Design 

Low slung and undeniably athletic, the GLA is not your typical SUV. Riding on the CLA’s chassis and sporting a sophistication that belies its price point, the GLA is a modern SUV for a modern age. LED accents adorn the headlamps and taillights, while two sweeping character lines trace the vehicle’s profile and add even more visual definition. A commanding front grille that houses the iconic Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star rounds out a cohesive and eye-catching exterior design.

Meanwhile, AMG® models turn up the visual volume and are distinguishable by their more aggressive exterior flourishes, larger 19-inch wheels, larger front splitter, and big roof spoiler.

Despite its coupe-like proportions, the 2016 GLA offers plenty of room for both drivers and passengers. The cockpit marries the spatial sensibilities of an SUV with that of a sport two-door coupe—all without falling victim to the sterile styling often associate with the former.  A large center console, complete with dial controller, divides the front cabin, while a sweeping dash and sporty three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters consolidate the GLA’s sporty character.

Finally, an available panoramic sunroof is an option that drivers should seriously consider as it thoroughly enhances the interior’s style quotient.

Safety

It’s fair to say Mercedes-Benz knows a thing or two about safety and the GLA continues the luxury automaker’s outstanding reputation. Standard safety features include 10-way air bag protection, adaptive braking technology, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and electronic parking brake. Adding to the GLA’s safety features are standard antilock brakes, electronic stability program, Mercedes-Benz SmartKey, and front foglamps.

The 2016 GLA also employs a number of advance safety features designed to supplement the GLA’s already outstanding safety technologies. These include COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS®, ATTENTION ASSIST®, and available DISTRONIC PLUS®, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and rearview camera (now offering 180-degree view), to name a few.

Bottom Line

The 2016 GLA may not break the bank, but it will disrupt your opinion of what a modern Mercedes-Benz can do. For more information on this vehicle or any other compelling Mercedes-Benz model, contact us online or visit Mercedes-Benz of Owings Mills at 9727 Reisterstown Rd, Owings Mills, MD 21117.

*Excludes all options, taxes, title, registration, $925 transportation charge, and dealer prep fee.

Image: Mercedes-Benz (Vehicle shown with optional equipment)