The 2018 Mercedes GLA SUV stands as a compelling option in the compact luxury SUV market, delivering a blend of performance, technology, and versatility. This detailed guide explores the various features and configurations available for the Mercedes Gla Suv 2018, helping you understand what this model offers.
The base model, the GLA250, is equipped with a robust turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive. Even in its standard form, the GLA250 is well-appointed, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels for a striking stance and a power liftgate for ease of access to the cargo area. Inside, the driver benefits from a power-adjustable seat, and three distinct performance driving modes allow for customization of the driving experience. Imitation leather upholstery provides a touch of luxury, while the 60/40-split folding rear seatback with a center pass-through enhances practicality and cargo flexibility.
Technologically, the GLA250 incorporates an 8-inch central display screen operated by a dial-and-button control system. Connectivity features include Bluetooth for hands-free calls and audio streaming, and a six-speaker audio system complete with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports. Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system offers additional connected services, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot and concierge services, available through subscription.
For enhanced traction and all-weather capability, the GLA250 4Matic model incorporates all-wheel drive. This version also adds features specifically designed for challenging conditions, including hill descent control for managing steep slopes and an off-road status monitor. The off-road monitor provides real-time data on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, aiding drivers in more adventurous scenarios.
To further personalize the GLA250, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of option packages. The Premium package enhances comfort and convenience with blind-spot monitoring for increased safety, keyless entry and ignition for ease of use, heated front seats for cold weather comfort, and hands-free liftgate operation for effortless cargo access. The Interior package elevates the cabin ambiance with leather upholstery for a more luxurious feel, sport seats for enhanced support, and ambient cabin lighting to create a refined atmosphere.
For those seeking advanced technology, the Multimedia package is available, adding a navigation system to guide your journeys, voice controls for easier system operation, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. This package also includes real-time satellite traffic and weather information to keep you informed on the go.
Safety and driver assistance are further enhanced with the Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead and lane keeping assist to help prevent unintentional lane departures. The Convenience package adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror to reduce nighttime glare. For parking ease, the new Parking Assist package incorporates a surround-view camera system for enhanced visibility around the vehicle and a self-parking system to simplify parking maneuvers.
Visually, the GLA250 can be transformed with the AMG Line Exterior package, which delivers a sporty aesthetic with 19-inch AMG wheels, distinctive AMG body styling elements, and a black headliner for a more dynamic interior ambiance. The Night package further amplifies this sporty look with black wheels, black exterior trim, and black side mirror caps, creating a more aggressive and personalized appearance.
Beyond packages, a variety of stand-alone options are available, allowing buyers to select individual features. These include many items from the packages, such as stand-alone blind-spot monitoring, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and heated front seats. Further upgrades include a panoramic sunroof to bring in more natural light, LED headlights for improved visibility, ambient cabin lighting to personalize the interior, and a premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for audiophile-quality sound.
At the top of the range, the AMG GLA 45 delivers significantly enhanced performance. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and the GLA250’s standard feature set but boasts a dramatically more powerful version of the same 2.0-liter engine, producing 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Visually and functionally, the AMG GLA 45 is differentiated by 19-inch wheels, a sport exhaust system for a more aggressive sound, a sport-tuned suspension and steering for sharper handling, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, LED headlights for improved visibility, and a power passenger seat for added convenience. The options for the AMG GLA 45 largely mirror those of the GLA250, but with exclusive performance-oriented additions.
The AMG Dynamic Plus package for the AMG GLA 45 includes adaptive dampers to adjust suspension firmness, a limited-slip differential for improved traction during cornering, a Race driving mode for track-focused performance, and an increased top speed. The new AMG Performance Studio package provides an aggressive styling upgrade, including 20-inch wheels, a distinctive body kit, a rear spoiler for enhanced aerodynamics, sport seats for maximum support, and various interior and exterior components trimmed in black and yellow for a bold and unique aesthetic. A selection of other packages offers further aesthetic enhancements both inside and out, allowing for extensive personalization of the AMG GLA 45.
In conclusion, the 2018 Mercedes GLA SUV offers a comprehensive range of features and options across its trim levels, from the well-equipped GLA250 to the high-performance AMG GLA 45. Whether prioritizing fuel efficiency and urban practicality or seeking exhilarating performance and sporty styling, the GLA lineup provides diverse choices to meet various preferences and needs in the compact luxury SUV segment.
