Mercedes-Benz GLA Review

The Review

First Impressions (0-1 years) SUVs Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA (X156, facelift 2017) GLA 200d (136 Hp) 4MATIC DCT

Opted for a car with luxury and fuel economy.

Summary

The old Ford Focus diesel was getting tired and it was time for a replacement and I wanted a bit more comfort. I looked around and the GLA caught my eye as it was reasonably priced with decent "claimed" MPG.
So two weeks in and whilst the comfort is outstanding the drive is not engaging in anyway even in sport mode.

Practicality and Comfort

Comfort is fantastic as I didn't go for the AMG version as I found the seats a little snug for a larger kind of gentleman. The vehicle itself is spacious and fits the kids including car seat very well.
The audio system leaves a lot to be desired at the moment (maybe there are other options on the various menus that I have yet to discover) but I have yet to find how to adjust the bass, treble and mid ranges and the most important thing is missing DAB. I moved from a 2012 Ford Focus to a 2016 Mercedes Benz and it does not have DAB! I am in shock no more Gold radio for me....yes I'm old but this is a big thing to people who drive alot for work.

It houses the kids well and the leather interior is luxurious (and easy to clean those little hand prints).

Boot space is good and fits the pushchair in with the normal footballs and bits and pieces.

Parking is easy with the reversing camera too.

Performance and Handling

Handling in comfort mode is exactly as expected for a German motor comfortable.

Performance even in "sport" mode is lacking the oomph you would expect from a 2litre diesel.

Mpg is as expected around 50mpg (I do alot of motorway miles)

Would I recommend it? NO

If you want a comfortable ride with practicality then this is the motor for you as long as you have a good listing of music on your phone or ipod (yes I'm still not impressed by the lack of DAB)

If you want to feel engaged whilst driving/enjoy driving avoid this vehicle.