Mercedes GLA 250 Review: Expert Look at Performance, Interior & More

The first encounter with the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 can be quite striking. When I was handed the keys to the test model, the vibrant South Seas Blue Metallic paint immediately grabbed my attention. Initially, a blue Mercedes might seem unconventional, especially with a $900 price tag for the optional paint. However, any reservations quickly faded as I took a closer look. This wasn’t just any blue; it was a statement. Taking a walk around the GLA 250, its size surprised me. For a compact crossover, it possesses a substantial presence on the road. The stance is confident, and surprisingly, the South Seas Blue worked exceptionally well, giving the car a unique character.

Equipped with the AMG sports package, which includes flared bumpers, side skirts, and 19-inch black AMG wheels, the GLA 250 transformed into a genuinely attractive vehicle from almost any angle. The sporty additions elevated its aesthetic, giving it an edge that’s hard to ignore in the competitive compact SUV market.

Inside the Mercedes GLA 250: Comfort and Design

Stepping inside the GLA 250, the initial impression was a mix of familiarity and slight concern. The design and layout are unmistakably Mercedes-Benz, modern and well-appointed. However, for taller individuals, like myself, the sloping roofline presents an immediate challenge. The roof’s curvature towards the center of the car is more pronounced than in many other vehicles in this class. The top of the A-pillar, where it meets the roof, sat uncomfortably close to my head, and during the test drive, I found myself hitting my head against it on several occasions. This, combined with the overall dimensions of the car, suggests that taller occupants might find the GLA 250 somewhat cramped, especially in the front. The panoramic glass sunroof did contribute to a brighter and more spacious feel inside the cabin, which is a welcome feature, especially considering it comes as standard.

Beyond the headroom issue, the rest of the interior aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary design language. The dashboard is clean, and the layout is intuitive, although the center console does feature a notable array of buttons, typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era. The test car was equipped with the optional Command Package, which, even at the time, felt somewhat like an afterthought in terms of design integration. It’s perhaps telling that it remains an optional extra rather than a seamlessly integrated feature. One aspect that stood out, and not in a positive way, was the center console’s construction. While it offered ample storage space, the plastic used felt surprisingly cheap, detracting from the otherwise premium ambiance. Disappointingly, the center console exhibited a noticeable rattle, something unexpected in a German-engineered car, especially at lower mileages. The rattling became persistent enough to be distracting, requiring me to use my wallet and phone to weigh it down and minimize the noise during drives.

Moving to the rear, the cabin ambiance shifts noticeably. The rear seats offer a comfortable experience for a vehicle of this size. The seating position is more upright, akin to a traditional SUV, which translates to improved knee room—a significant benefit for taller passengers. The panoramic sunroof continues to enhance the rear space, contributing to an airy and open feel. The boot capacity is a respectable 421 liters, surpassing the luggage space of many standard hatchbacks by approximately 40 liters. The inclusion of a standard push-button for boot opening and closing adds convenience. Furthermore, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats expand the cargo area to 836 liters, providing ample space for larger items, making it practical for everyday needs and occasional larger loads.

Driving Dynamics and Performance of the GLA 250

The driving experience of the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 was arguably the most surprising aspect of the test. Expecting it to handle and feel like a typical SUV, especially given it wasn’t a full-fledged AMG model but rather equipped with an AMG body kit, my expectations were set for a somewhat mundane driving experience. However, the GLA 250 defied these assumptions. The only SUV-like characteristics were the elevated ride height and driving position. Beyond that, the GLA 250 felt more akin to driving a sporty coupe than a bulky wagon. This sensation might be attributed to its relatively compact dimensions and lower weight compared to larger SUVs, coupled with the high window sills that create a cocooned feeling. On winding roads, the GLA 250 revealed its enjoyable side, bringing a genuine smile to my face.

Powering the GLA 250 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering 155kW of power and 350Nm of torque. This engine provides more than adequate performance for the GLA 250. While not overwhelmingly powerful, it offers confident acceleration and responsiveness in various driving situations. The ride quality is commendable, even with the 19-inch AMG wheels. The tires, not being ultra-low profile, offer sufficient sidewall to absorb road imperfections, contributing to a smooth and comfortable ride. Steering feedback is notably good, allowing for precise car placement with subtle inputs, instilling confidence when tackling corners. The brakes are well-tuned, offering a balanced feel—neither overly sporty nor too soft. They provide the right amount of feedback and stopping power for this type of vehicle. True to Mercedes-Benz tradition, the engine note is pleasing. It emits a subtle, grunty drone at cruising speeds and a hint of turbocharger whistle when accelerating, adding a touch of sporty character without being intrusive. Overall, the GLA 250 proves to be a surprisingly engaging vehicle to drive, making it a compelling option as a daily driver.

Competition in the Compact SUV Market

The compact SUV/crossover segment is fiercely competitive, making it crucial to understand where the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 stands against its rivals. When examining the pricing, the GLA 250 positions itself at the higher end of the spectrum. In fact, it’s among the pricier options in its class, surpassed only by the Porsche Macan in terms of base price.

Pros and Cons of the Mercedes GLA 250

Final Verdict: Is the Mercedes GLA 250 a Good Choice?

It’s refreshing to see Mercedes-Benz embracing bolder color options like South Seas Blue, moving away from the often-seen palette of black, white, and silver. Initially, I approached the GLA 250 with some skepticism, questioning its place in an already crowded niche market. However, sometimes being a fast follower rather than a first mover has its advantages, allowing manufacturers to learn from others’ missteps. Beyond its relatively high price, the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is a genuinely impressive vehicle. It serves as a practical and enjoyable daily driver, with an added layer of fun when desired. It’s a shame that minor aspects like the center console’s cheap plastic and rattling slightly detract from an otherwise well-rounded package.

Rating – Chevron rating 4 out of 5

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 Specifications