The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class emerges as a compelling option in the compact luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz sophistication and versatile functionality. This model year provides a range of features and customization options to cater to diverse preferences, from essential comforts to sporty enhancements and high-performance thrills with the AMG variant. Let’s delve into the specifics of the Mercedes Benz Gla 2016, exploring its standard equipment, available packages, and standalone options.
The entry-level GLA250 sets a strong foundation with a comprehensive list of standard features designed for comfort and convenience. Exterior highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels providing a confident stance, privacy glass for enhanced cabin seclusion, and practical roof rails for added cargo-carrying versatility. Fog lamps improve visibility in adverse conditions, while a power liftgate offers effortless access to the cargo area. Automatic wipers respond intelligently to changing weather, and cruise control contributes to relaxed highway driving.
Inside the GLA250, the driver is treated to a 14-way power-adjustable seat, ensuring personalized comfort, while the front passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat. Driver memory settings add convenience for multiple drivers. MB-Tex vinyl upholstery offers a durable and refined cabin ambiance. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel further aids in finding the ideal driving position, and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through enhance cargo and passenger flexibility.
Technologically, the Mercedes Benz GLA 2016 is equipped with a 7-inch central display screen controlled by a console-mounted knob, serving as the hub for infotainment. Media interface connectivity for digital music players, Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming, and an audio system featuring a CD player, HD radio, and a USB audio input provide ample entertainment options.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the GLA250 4Matic all-wheel-drive version incorporates hill-descent control, adding confidence on steep slopes, and an off-road status monitor displayed on the 7-inch screen. This monitor provides real-time information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, reinforcing the GLA’s sport-activity credentials.
To further personalize the Mercedes Benz GLA 2016, Mercedes-Benz offers several appealing packages. The Premium package elevates the experience with auto-dimming mirrors enhancing nighttime driving, keyless entry and ignition for seamless vehicle access, and heated front seats for cold-weather comfort. A Harman Kardon premium audio system with satellite radio is also included, delivering an upgraded auditory experience.
The Multimedia package focuses on advanced technology upgrades, featuring a larger 8-inch screen for improved display clarity and a hard-drive-based navigation system for reliable route guidance. Voice controls add hands-free operation for certain functions, while a rearview camera enhances parking and maneuvering safety. An in-dash SD card reader provides additional media versatility, and five years of real-time traffic and weather updates keep drivers informed and prepared.
For a more athletic aesthetic, the Sport package introduces 19-inch wheels for a bolder look, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. Exclusively available with the Sport package, the Night package further amplifies the sporty appearance with black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents, creating a striking visual statement.
The Interior package focuses on cabin refinement, featuring leather seating surfaces for a touch of luxury, front sport seats for added lateral support, multi-color ambient lighting to personalize the interior atmosphere, and MB-Tex dash trim for a premium feel.
Safety and driver assistance are addressed by the Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control for maintaining a set following distance, lane-departure warning to alert drivers of unintentional lane drifts, and a blind-spot monitor to enhance awareness of vehicles in adjacent lanes.
Beyond packages, the Mercedes Benz GLA 2016 offers a range of standalone options allowing for highly customized configurations. These include individual items from the packages, such as bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved illumination and modern styling, a panoramic sunroof for an open and airy cabin feel, and parking sensors combined with an automated parking system for simplified parking maneuvers. A power passenger seat with memory mirrors the driver’s seat adjustability, while a standalone blind-spot monitor offers targeted safety enhancement. Aluminum interior trim provides a further option for customizing the cabin’s aesthetic.
At the pinnacle of performance within the GLA lineup sits the AMG GLA 45. This high-performance variant comes standard with all-wheel drive and encompasses the GLA250’s standard features while adding significant performance and styling enhancements. A more powerful engine delivers exhilarating acceleration, complemented by a sport exhaust system for an aggressive soundtrack. Unique 19-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension and steering system sharpen handling dynamics. Upgraded brakes ensure confident stopping power to match the increased performance. Bi-xenon headlights and distinctive styling cues, including a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes, further differentiate the AMG GLA 45. Inside, a power passenger seat and ambient lighting are also standard.
AMG GLA 45 options largely mirror those of the GLA250, but with performance-oriented additions. Recaro sport seats offer enhanced support during spirited driving, an upgraded steering wheel provides a sportier feel, and a large rear spoiler amplifies the vehicle’s aggressive stance. The Dynamic Plus package, succeeding the previous Driver’s package, includes 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for adjustable ride firmness, a limited-slip front differential for improved traction, a “Race” driving mode for track-focused performance, and an increased top speed. Multiple carbon-fiber trim packages and the Aerodynamics Package further enhance both performance and visual appeal for discerning enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Mercedes Benz GLA 2016 presents a versatile and customizable compact luxury SUV. From the well-equipped GLA250 to the high-performance AMG GLA 45, the GLA-Class offers a compelling entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand, blending luxury, technology, and performance in a stylish and practical package.
