The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 stands as a compelling option in the luxury compact SUV segment, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz sophistication and versatile functionality. This model year boasts a range of standard features and customizable packages designed to cater to diverse driver needs and preferences. Let’s delve into the details of what makes the 2017 GLA 250 a noteworthy contender.
Standard Features of the 2017 GLA 250
The base 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is generously equipped right from the start. Exterior highlights include practical and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass, enhancing both aesthetics and passenger comfort. Fog lights improve visibility in adverse conditions, while automatic wipers and a power liftgate add convenience to everyday use. Cruise control is standard for relaxed highway driving, and dual-zone automatic climate control ensures optimal cabin temperature for both driver and passenger.
Inside the GLA 250, driver and passenger comfort are prioritized. The driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat with 4-way power lumbar support, along with memory settings for personalized positioning. The front passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat that includes a convenient fold-flat feature for increased cargo versatility. A driver information display keeps essential vehicle data readily accessible, and selectable driving modes allow drivers to tailor the GLA 250’s performance to different driving conditions or preferences.
Mercedes-Benz’s attention to detail extends to the interior appointments, featuring MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery and ambient interior lighting for a refined cabin ambiance. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel further enhances driver comfort, while 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through provide flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
For in-car entertainment and connectivity, the 2017 GLA 250 includes a 7-inch central display operated via a console-mounted control knob. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling and audio streaming, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports provides a variety of media options. Select Mercedes-Benz Mbrace telematics services, such as a Wi-Fi hot spot and concierge services, are available via subscription.
2017 GLA 250 4Matic: Adding All-Wheel Drive Capability
For drivers seeking enhanced traction and all-weather capability, the 2017 GLA 250 4Matic model incorporates all-wheel drive. This version further adds hill descent control for confident handling on steep slopes and an off-road status monitor integrated into the 7-inch display. This monitor provides real-time information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, bolstering its sport-activity credentials and providing drivers with valuable data when venturing off the beaten path.
Optional Packages for the 2017 GLA 250
Mercedes-Benz offers a range of packages to further customize the 2017 GLA 250 and elevate its features.
Premium Package
The Premium package enhances convenience and safety with a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring. Keyless entry and ignition streamline vehicle access, while heated front seats provide added comfort in colder climates. Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, complete with satellite radio for a wider range of entertainment choices.
Multimedia Package
For drivers prioritizing advanced technology, the Multimedia package is the ideal upgrade. It features a larger 8-inch screen for the infotainment system, a navigation system to guide your journeys, and voice controls for hands-free operation of various functions. Smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity with your mobile devices.
Sport Package and Night Package
The Sport package delivers a more athletic aesthetic and driving dynamics. It includes larger 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. For an even bolder look, the Night package, available exclusively with the Sport package, adds black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents, creating a distinctive and sporty presence.
Interior Package, Driver Assistance Package, and Convenience Package
The Interior package elevates the cabin ambiance with leather seating, front sport seats for enhanced support, upgraded ambient interior lighting, and MB-Tex dash trim. The Driver Assistance package focuses on advanced safety and driver-aid technologies, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Finally, the Convenience package adds practical features such as auto-dimming mirrors and a garage door opener for enhanced everyday usability.
Standalone Options
Beyond packages, the 2017 GLA 250 offers a selection of standalone options, allowing buyers to pick and choose specific features. These include some items available in packages, as well as xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved visibility, a panoramic sunroof for an open and airy cabin feel, parking sensors with an automated parking system for easier maneuvering in tight spaces, and a 14-way power passenger seat with memory for enhanced passenger comfort.
2017 AMG GLA 45: High-Performance Variant
For those seeking exhilarating performance, the AMG GLA 45 represents the high-performance variant of the GLA. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and builds upon the GLA 250’s standard features with a significantly more powerful engine, a sport exhaust system, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and steering, and upgraded brakes. Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, a power passenger seat, MB-Tex/simulated-suede upholstery, and distinctive styling tweaks such as a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes are also standard on the AMG GLA 45.
AMG GLA 45 Options and Performance
The AMG GLA 45’s options mirror many of those available for the GLA 250, but also include performance-oriented upgrades like 20-inch wheels, Recaro sport seats, an upgraded steering wheel, a large rear spoiler, and a performance exhaust system. Notably, the AMG GLA 45 cannot be ordered with the Sport or Night packages, as it already incorporates a sporty aesthetic and performance focus.
Exclusive to the AMG GLA 45 is the Dynamic Plus package, which adds adaptive suspension dampers, a limited-slip front differential, a Race driving mode, and an increased top speed. Further enhancing its performance and visual appeal are optional carbon-fiber exterior trim and Aerodynamics packages, along with the AMG Dinamica package.
Engine and Performance Specs
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is powered by a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for a more engaging driving experience. In independent testing, the GLA 250 4Matic demonstrated impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, outperforming Mercedes’ own estimate of 7.1 seconds.
The AMG GLA 45 elevates performance to a new level, extracting an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque from the same 2.0-liter engine. A quicker-shifting version of the seven-speed transmission channels power to all four wheels. The AMG GLA 45 also features a three-mode stability control system allowing for customized levels of intervention and includes launch control for maximum acceleration off the line. Mercedes-Benz claims the AMG GLA 45 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.3 seconds.
Fuel Economy
Both the GLA 250 and AMG GLA 45 models incorporate an automatic stop-start function to enhance fuel efficiency. The front-wheel-drive GLA 250 achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway), while the all-wheel-drive GLA 250 4Matic earns 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway). Even the high-performance AMG GLA 45 delivers respectable fuel economy, rated at 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 offers a well-rounded package of luxury, versatility, and performance in the compact SUV segment. With a generous list of standard features, a wide array of optional packages, and a potent engine, the GLA 250 caters to a broad spectrum of buyers. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, all-weather capability, sporty aesthetics, or high-performance thrills with the AMG GLA 45, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 lineup provides compelling options to consider.
