2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 Review: More Of Everything
We take a ride in the all-new 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and find out what's changed on this popular Mercedes-Benz model.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is back for the 2021 model year with more style, more features and more sheer driving pleasure than ever before. It’s powered by a 2.0L Inline-4 engine producing 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, proving that compact does not mean lacking in anything drivers want. It’ll launch you from 0 to 60 in just 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 130mph. But let’s not forget, this is a Mercedes-Benz, so power is one thing but where the GLA250 really shines is in substance, style and comfort.
Exterior Style with Practical Updates
The 2021 GLA250 combines signature Mercedes-Benz elegance with a sense of power and performance, too. The subtle slope on the front end, and coupe-like downward tilt of the rear roof all contribute to an athletic presence. Meanwhile, the five double-spoke alloys, stunning chrome detailing and contoured body convey timeless and classic style that’s frankly irresistible. Other exterior developments include the two-part taillamps, which place the reflectors separately in the bumper. That small change makes loading the GLA250 easier because you can now open the rear door wider. Integrated roof rails also come as standard now.
Unforgettable Interior
We always expect Mercedes-Benz to deliver on a high-quality interior, and they never seem to let us down. Starting with the MB-Tex-covered seats, which at the front end include power front seats with 3-position memory. The rear seat is a 40:20:40-split set up with folding and reclining available. Upgrade the trim to get the leather-covered sport front seats, which can also be heated and/or ventilated. The standard setup continues to impress, however, with its illuminated entry system, dual-zone climate control, heated side mirrors and smart keyless entry with push-button start. This SUV is luxury through and through. Of course, those wanting more can continue to add from the optional features like ambient lighting, heated steering wheel, and further adjustable rear seats. However you choose to enjoy the interior, your passengers can sit back and look at the sky through the panorama roof, or simply wallow in the opulent ambience of yet another great Mercedes-Benz SUV.
Performance with Utility
As we mentioned above, the 2021 GLA250 is powered by a 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine. That’s coupled with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Together the powertrain delivers potent results as we described in the introduction. Beyond simple horsepower and torque, however, the GLA250 is also surprisingly efficient, delivering 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. It’s partially because it’s only a compact, but also because of the advanced engine technology that is helping SUVs to become as practical as sedans when it comes to efficiency. The 2021 GLA250 is built using a MacPherson front suspension, which features control arms below the center of each wheel, and an aluminum wishbone. The rear axle is a 4-link design, with three transverse links and one trailing arm for each rear wheel. This configuration ensures the smoothest and most stable ride quality. If you get the 4MATIC version, you can add AWD to that equation for even better traction when facing trickier road conditions ahead. But the new 2021 model is not just built for performance, but also utility. It’s about three inches higher than its predecessor, with a higher seating position delivering a more commanding view to the driver. There’s additional headroom in the front and legroom in the rear, even though the overall frame of the car is actually half an inch shorter. A total of 50.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity make it practical far beyond what its “compact” name might suggest.”
Technology and Safety
Once again, innovation is a common thread in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and the new GLA250 is once again no exception. Go for the optional 10.25” digital instrument cluster and equal-sized central infotainment screen for the best experience. Through that you can run your navigation, in-car Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and more. You also get 4 USB ports as standard, Bluetooth audio streaming, an optional driver HUD and vice commands using the “Hey, Mercedes” activator. Where the GLA250 really shines, however, is in how Mercedes-Benz have used their tech prowess to ensure driver and passenger safety. Active brake assist, blind spot detection, ultra crisp rearview camera, crosswind assist, rain-sensing wipers, and more all come as standard features. To that you can add programs like PRE-SAFE PLUS, which help protect rear passengers in the event of an impending rear-end collision by automatically engaging the seat-belt tensioners. The list of additional and optional safety features is frankly exhaustive.
An Impressive SUV from an Impressive Brand
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is a superb compact SUV for the modern age, and with a surprisingly affordable starting price of just $36,230. It’s a thing of beauty and a fine addition to the company’s eclectic range for what will hopefully be a better sales year than 2020.
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Comments (2)
As a Mercedes Benz technician, sadly, I have to say that they are not very reliable so far
I have the old GLA and this looks better in every way but one. On a motorway run I get 50-60 mpg. This is much thirstier.