The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 stands out as a versatile and stylish compact SUV, offering a blend of luxury and practicality. This model year boasts a comprehensive list of standard features and a variety of optional packages and standalone upgrades to tailor the vehicle to individual preferences. For those considering a pre-owned luxury SUV, understanding the offerings of the 2017 GLA 250 is crucial.
The standard GLA 250 is well-equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass, enhancing its exterior appeal and passenger comfort. Fog lights and automatic wipers add to visibility and convenience in varying weather conditions, while a power liftgate provides ease of access to the cargo area. Cruise control and dual-zone automatic climate control contribute to a comfortable driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
Inside, the driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat with 4-way power lumbar support, while the passenger seat offers 10-way manual adjustability and a fold-flat feature for added cargo flexibility. Driver memory settings, a driver information display, and selectable driving modes allow for personalized driving dynamics. The cabin is finished with MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery and ambient interior lighting, creating a refined atmosphere. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through further enhance practicality.
Technologically, the 2017 GLA 250 includes a 7-inch central display controlled via a console-mounted knob, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports. Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system offers optional subscription-based services, including a Wi-Fi hot spot and concierge services.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the all-wheel-drive 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic adds hill descent control and an off-road status monitor displayed on the 7-inch screen. This monitor provides information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, adding to its sport-activity vehicle credentials.
To further enhance the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, several packages were available. The Premium package elevates the vehicle with a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats, and an upgraded 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with satellite radio. The Multimedia package adds a larger 8-inch screen, a navigation system, voice controls, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to modern connectivity needs.
The Sport package delivers a more athletic aesthetic and driving dynamics with 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and more aggressive exterior styling. The Night package, exclusively available with the Sport package, further enhances the sporty look with black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents. For interior refinement, the Interior package includes leather seating, front sport seats, upgraded ambient interior lighting, and MB-Tex dash trim. Safety and driver assistance are boosted by the Driver Assistance package, featuring adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Lastly, the Convenience package adds auto-dimming mirrors and a garage door opener for everyday ease.
Standalone options for the 2017 GLA 250 allowed for further customization. These included individual items from the packages, along with xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved visibility, a panoramic sunroof for an open-air feel, parking sensors with an automated parking system for easier maneuvering, and a 14-way power passenger seat with memory for enhanced passenger comfort.
For performance enthusiasts, the high-performance AMG GLA 45 version of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 offered significant upgrades. Standard with all-wheel drive, it includes the GLA 250’s standard features and adds a more powerful engine, sport exhaust, unique 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension and steering, and upgraded brakes. Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, a power passenger seat, MB-Tex/simulated-suede upholstery, and AMG-specific styling elements such as a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes are also standard.
AMG GLA 45 options largely mirrored those of the GLA 250, but also included 20-inch wheels, Recaro sport seats for enhanced support, an upgraded steering wheel, a large rear spoiler, and a performance exhaust for an even more dynamic driving experience. The AMG GLA 45 could be configured with most of the GLA 250 packages, excluding the Sport or Night packages. Unique to the AMG GLA 45 was the Dynamic Plus package, which added adaptive suspension dampers, a limited-slip front differential, a Race driving mode, and a higher top speed, maximizing track performance. Carbon-fiber exterior trim and Aerodynamics packages, along with the AMG Dinamica package, further enhanced both performance and visual appeal.
Under the hood, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for engaging driving dynamics. In independent testing, the GLA 250 4Matic demonstrated brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, outperforming Mercedes’ official estimate.
The AMG GLA 45 variant of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 significantly boosts power output from the same 2.0-liter engine, delivering an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A quicker-shifting version of the seven-speed transmission and standard all-wheel drive enable rapid acceleration. The AMG GLA 45 also features a three-mode stability control system and available launch control, allowing for tailored driving experiences and optimal off-the-line performance. Mercedes-Benz states a 0-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds for the GLA 45.
Both the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and the 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 4Matic version achieves 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway). Even the high-performance AMG GLA 45 manages a respectable 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 offers a compelling package of luxury, versatility, and performance in the compact SUV segment. With its extensive list of standard features, available packages, and potent engine options, it caters to a wide range of buyers seeking a premium driving experience. Whether opting for the well-rounded GLA 250 or the high-performance AMG GLA 45, the 2017 GLA lineup provides a sophisticated and enjoyable ownership experience.
