2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC Review

Are you looking for a small luxury SUV that packs a punch? The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC might be your answer. This compact crossover is the smallest SUV in Mercedes’ lineup, but don’t let its size fool you.

We’ll explore why this refreshed model could be the perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance for your daily drive. Ready to see what makes the GLA 250 4MATIC stand out?

Overview of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC packs a punch in a small package. This compact luxury SUV offers a smooth ride, peppy performance, and high-end tech features that’ll make you feel like a million bucks.

Key Features

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC packs a punch in a small package. This compact luxury SUV offers a mix of style, tech, and performance that’s hard to beat.

• 48-volt mild hybrid system: Boosts efficiency and smooths out the start-stop function
• 10.25-inch touchscreen: Runs the latest MBUX infotainment system with crisp graphics
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Connect your phone without cords
• Active Emergency Stop Assist: Helps bring the car to a safe stop if you’re unresponsive
• Pre-Safe Sound: Plays a noise to protect your ears before a crash
• Comfortable seating for five: Plush seats make long drives a breeze
• 435 to 1,430 liters of cargo space: Plenty of room for groceries or weekend bags
• 4MATIC all-wheel drive: Keeps you stable in all weather conditions
• Starting price of $51,000: Luxury features at a competitive price point
• 72% five-star owner ratings: Shows high customer satisfaction

These features make the GLA 250 4MATIC a top pick in the subcompact luxury SUV class. Now, let’s look at what’s new for 2024.

What’s New in the 2024 Model?

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC brings fresh updates to the table. New tech features and style tweaks make this year’s model stand out from its predecessor.

Updates from Previous Year

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC brings fresh updates to the table. Let’s check out what’s new in this compact luxury SUV:

1. Mild hybrid tech: A belt-driven starter-generator now boosts engine output by 13 horsepower. This system helps improve fuel economy and performance.
2. Coasting engine shut-off: The engine turns off while coasting to save fuel. This smart feature kicks in when you take your foot off the gas.
3. Updated infotainment: The MBUX system gets a refresh with clearer graphics and faster response times. It’s easier to use and looks better than ever.
4. Improved driver aids: The car now offers better adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These features make long drives less tiring.
5. Restyled exterior: New headlights and taillights give the GLA a sharper look. The grille also gets a minor tweak for a more modern vibe.
6. Interior upgrades: Softer materials and new color options spruce up the cabin. The seats are more comfy for those long road trips.
7. Enhanced sound system: The optional Burmester audio setup delivers crisper, richer sound. It’s perfect for music lovers who want top-notch audio quality.
8. Tweaked suspension: Small changes to the suspension improve ride comfort. The car handles bumps better without losing its sporty feel.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Canadian Pricing

In Canada the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA is offered in two trims, the base trim is the GLA 250 4MATIC and the top trim is the AMG GLA 35 4MATIC.

The GLA 250 has a starting price of $51,500 and the AMG GLA 35 starts at $62,500. These prices are before optional packages, freight and PDI, and taxes.

Our review car for the week was the GLA 250 4MATIC and had a sticker price of $63,220 with optional packages, before taxes. The options included the AMG Line package ($2,000), Exclusive Trim ($1,750), Burmester Surround Sound System ($1,100), Mountain Grey Paint ($975), 360-degree camera ($780).

Engine and Performance

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC might be a small CUV, but it still has the heart of a sporty car. Its turbocharged engine delivers smooth power and quick acceleration, making city driving a breeze.

Engine Specs

Let’s have a detailed look at the GLA 250’s engine specifications:

This powerplant offers a mix of oomph and efficiency. The turbocharger adds extra zip when you need it. Mild hybrid tech gives a 13 hp boost, making city driving a breeze. The eight-speed gearbox shifts smoothly, keeping the ride comfy. All in all, it’s a solid setup for daily drives and weekend getaways.

These specs show a well-rounded vehicle. Its quick acceleration gets you moving fast. You’ll hit highway speeds in no time. The top speed of 200 km/h is more than enough for any legal road. Fuel economy is solid for an AWD SUV. City driving consumes 9.4 L/100 km, while highway cruising consumes 7.1 L/100 km of premium fuel. Braking performance is strong too, they’re not too “grabby” and easy to modulate.

For my week long review, with a mix of 70/30 highway/city driving, the onboard computer showed an average real world fuel consumption of 7.9 L/100 km.

These numbers add up to a sporty, efficient, and safe ride.

Driving Experience

Moving from raw numbers to real-world feel, let’s talk about how the GLA 250 4MATIC handles on the road. This compact SUV offers a smooth ride that’ll make your daily commute a breeze.

Its responsive steering and tight turning radius make city driving a snap. You’ll zip through traffic and park with ease, even in tight spots.

Out on the open road, the GLA 250 4MATIC shines. Its all-wheel drive system grips the pavement, giving you confidence in all weather. The AWD system should be fine for light off-road use, going to the cabin with an unpaved road would be a breeze, but any hardcore trails are probably best suited for more rugged vehicles.

Thanks to the efficient engine, trips to the gas station are not so painful, especially with the way fuel prices are here in the West Coast of Canada.

Exterior Styling

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250’s styling is pretty subdued, taste in styling is subjective, some people might light a car that blends in while others like something that stands out. The GLA would fall into the former category, it’s not an ugly car, but it’s not pretty either. Most CUVs in this class look the same and are mostly pretty bland, in my opinion.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2024 GLA 250 4MATIC, and you’ll feel right at home. The cabin blends comfort and style, with plush seats and a sleek dashboard that catches the eye. The cabin sports premium materials, though some hard plastics remain. Dual 10.25-inch screens dominate the dash, running the latest MBUX system.

Seating and Space

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC offers a roomy cabin that’s a cut above. Up front, tall drivers will love the ample space. The seats hug you just right, with eight-way power adjustments to find your sweet spot.

Synthetic leather/Alcantara covers the seats, giving a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The back seat isn’t too shabby either, with 976 mm (38 inches) of legroom for your buddies.

Need to haul stuff? No sweat. With the seats up, you’ve got 435 liters of sapcae to play with. Fold them down, and that jumps to a hefty 1,430 liters. That’s plenty of room for your golf clubs or weekend gear.

The cabin stays pretty quiet too, so you can chat or enjoy your tunes without shouting. Just keep in mind, if you opt for the AMG GLA 35, you’ll hear a bit more engine growl and road noise.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2024 GLA 250 4MATIC packs a tech punch. Its MBUX system offers voice control and a touchscreen that’s easy to use while driving.

Infotainment System

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC boasts a top-notch infotainment system. At its heart lies the MBUX setup, featuring dual 10.25-inch screens. This user-friendly system offers multiple ways to control it, making it a breeze for drivers to use.

The touchscreen responds quickly, and voice commands work well too. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, letting you easily connect your phone.

For those who want more, the GLA 250 offers some cool extras. You can add navigation to help you find your way. SiriusXM satellite radio gives you tons of music choices. A head-up display shows key info right on the windshield.

And if you love great sound, the Burmester premium audio system will blow you away. Next, let’s look at the safety features that keep you secure on the road.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC packs some solid safety gear. Let’s check out what this compact luxury SUV offers to keep you safe on the road:

• Automated emergency braking: This system spots people and other cars. It can stop the GLA if you don’t react in time.
• High-beam assist: No more manual switching. The car turns high beams on and off as needed.
• Driver Assistance package: For extra cash, you get cruise control that adapts to traffic and a system that keeps you in your lane.
• Limited standard features: While useful, the GLA lacks some aids that rivals include at no cost.
• Pedestrian detection: The car can spot people walking and help avoid hitting them.
• Blind spot warning: Optional feature that alerts you to cars in your blind spots.
• Traffic sign recognition: Reads speed limit signs and shows them on your dash.
• Crosswind assist: Helps keep the GLA steady in strong side winds.
• Active Brake Assist: Warns of possible crashes and can apply brakes if needed.

Pros and Cons of the 2024 GLA 250 4MATIC

Every car has its ups and downs. Let’s check out what makes the 2024 GLA 250 4MATIC shine and where it might fall short.

Strengths of the Model

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC shines in several areas. Its smooth ride and comfy seats make long trips a breeze. The cabin feels high-end, with top-notch materials and a sleek design.

Tech-savvy drivers will love the user-friendly infotainment system. It’s packed with features that are easy to use.

This SUV strikes a great balance between comfort and sportiness. It handles well on twisty roads but still soaks up bumps nicely. Fuel economy is solid for its class, saving you money at the pump.

Safety is a strong point too. The GLA comes with advanced features like Active Emergency Stop Assist. Best of all, you get the prestige of the Mercedes badge without breaking the bank.

Consumer Feedback

Drivers love the 2024 GLA 250 4MATIC. They rave about its smooth ride and fancy tech. Car pros also give it high marks for its pep and style.

Owner Reviews and Ratings

Owners of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC have shared their thoughts. Here’s what they’re saying about this luxury subcompact SUV.

1. High overall satisfaction: 72% of owners gave the GLA 250 4MATIC a five-star rating.
2. Advanced tech impresses: Many drivers praise the cutting-edge features in the cabin.
3. Smooth ride quality: Owners often mention the comfortable driving experience.
4. Strong safety features: Drivers appreciate the collision avoidance and lane keeping systems.
5. Fuel economy satisfaction: Many note the GLA’s good mileage for a luxury vehicle.
6. Interior space concerns: Some taller drivers wish for more headroom and legroom.
7. Positive curb appeal: Owners love the sleek design and eye-catching looks of their GLA.

Expert Opinions

Car experts have weighed in on the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC. Their views offer valuable insights for potential buyers looking at this luxury subcompact SUV.

1. Edmunds rates the GLA 250 4MATIC highly, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. This score reflects the vehicle’s strong performance in key areas.
2. Reviewers praise the new 10.25-inch touchscreen as a standout feature. It enhances the user experience and keeps the GLA competitive in its class.
3. Many experts note the improved mild hybrid drivetrain. This update boosts fuel economy without sacrificing power.
4. The GLA’s comfort level receives high marks from most reviewers. They point out the well-designed seats and smooth ride quality.
5. Tech features in the 2024 model impress critics. They highlight the user-friendly MBUX infotainment system as a major plus.
6. Safety experts appreciate the GLA’s driver assistance features. These include automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning.
7. Some reviewers mention the GLA’s compact size as both a pro and a con. It’s great for city driving but may feel small for some buyers.
8. Experts compare the GLA favorably to rivals like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. They often cite its blend of luxury and performance as a key advantage.
9. The GLA’s fuel economy ratings earn positive comments from efficiency-focused reviewers. They note it’s competitive within its segment.
10. Critics generally agree that the 2024 GLA offers good value. They point to its mix of features, performance, and brand prestige at its price point.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC: Final Thoughts

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC stands out in the small luxury SUV market. It offers a great mix of style, comfort, and tech in a compact package. This car shines with its smooth ride, peppy engine, and fancy interior.

While it’s not perfect, the GLA 250 4MATIC gives drivers a lot for their money. If you want a small SUV that feels big on luxury, this Mercedes might be your perfect match.

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