Driven: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 has been a huge success since it launched in 2014 and has sold nearly 1 million units worldwide. The first two generations of the GLA 200 models were high-riding glammed up variants, with its 3rd-generation model getting a more off-road appeal. We recently got to spend some time with the latest GLA 200, and we finally understand why consumers are flocking towards this luxury compact SUV.
Fuel-efficient engine
Under the hood, the GLA 200 gets powered by a 1.3-litre turbopetrol engine which proves to be a very fuel-efficient option. But with such a small engine, things like power does get compromised. On the road, the GLA 200 is not as quick as one would as it produces a power output of just 120kW and 250 NM of torque but it is quite ideal as a daily drive. It comes equipped Mercedes smooth running 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GLA 200 is not exactly the most exhilarating drive but at the end of the day, its brilliant fuel consumption and smooth drive certainly make it appealing to small families.
Stylish exterior
The GLA 200 was made to compete with rivals such as the Audi Q3 and BMW X1, so naturally, a modern designed exterior was on top of Mercedes's to-do list. The outside of the GLA 200 is both minimalistic and elegant in many ways and immediately stands out in its SUV market. Some key design features on the GLA 200 include power domes in the bonnet, a single-louvre grille with a central star, and all-round protective cladding for a rugged off-road appeal. The GLA 200 does get polished aluminium roof rails and rides on 17-inch light-alloy wheels.
Premium interior
The cabin of the GLA 200 can be summed up as both premium and spacious. The GLA 200 may not look as spacious on the outside but once you step into it, problems like legroom and headroom no longer exist. Of course, like all Mercedes-Benz SUV’s the GLA 200 gets equipped with some of the finest interior features you will see on the market. The highlight here is its 7-inch MBUX touchscreen multimedia infotainment system, which comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. In many ways the GLA 200 feels built for comfort and the more time you spend with it; you realize why it has become such a popular choice.
Verdict
Besides its lack of speed finding cracks in the GLA 200 may be a very hard thing to do. This is simply because it offers everything you would expect in a premium SUV. Offering a smooth ride, good fuel economy, and a spacious interior, the GLA 200 is certainly a well-worthy competitor in this now competitive compact SUV market. The GLA 200 is in many ways the ideal SUV for those who wish to make an affordable transition to the Mercedes-Benz nameplate.
Pricing
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 R674 000
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FAQ
Q: What does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA cost in South Africa?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 starts from around R620,000 for the base model, with prices climbing to R750,000 for higher-spec variants depending on options and dealer specials.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 worth buying?
The GLA 200 is worth buying if you prioritise fuel efficiency, premium badge appeal, and daily usability over outright performance, especially for small families wanting a luxury compact SUV under R700,000.
Q: What fuel consumption does the GLA 200 achieve?
The GLA 200's 1.3-litre turbopetrol engine delivers impressive fuel consumption of around 6.5L/100km in mixed driving conditions, making it one of the most economical luxury SUVs in its class.
Q: How does the GLA 200 compare to the Audi Q3 and BMW X1?
The GLA 200 matches the Q3 and X1 on luxury and build quality but falls slightly behind on power output, though it compensates with superior fuel efficiency and competitive pricing in the South African market.
Q: What are the main problems with the Mercedes GLA 200?
The main drawbacks include modest power output of 120kW which feels sluggish for overtaking, higher maintenance costs than non-luxury rivals, and the dual-clutch gearbox can be jerky in stop-start traffic.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 is the best entry-level luxury SUV under R700,000 in South Africa if you value fuel efficiency and premium appeal over raw performance. With its impressive 6.5L/100km fuel consumption, spacious premium interior, and that coveted three-pointed star on the bonnet, the GLA 200 delivers exactly what small families want from a compact luxury SUV. Sure, the 120kW power output won't set your pants on fire, but for daily driving around Joburg or Cape Town, it's more than adequate. At around R620,000 to start, it undercuts similarly specced German rivals while offering genuine Mercedes luxury and build quality. If you're after a sensible, fuel-efficient luxury SUV that won't embarrass you at the country club, the GLA 200 ticks all the right boxes.
