The seven-member family extends from the A-Class as a hatchback and notchback to the CLA Coupé and Shooting Brake and the seven-seater GLB – and is now rounded off by the new GLA 35 4MATIC (combined fuel consumption 7.5-7.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 171-170 g/km) . The technical basis is already well-proven: the agile high-torque 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine delivers 225 kW (306 hp), which is variably distributed to all four wheels via the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and the all-wheel drive. The dynamic performance (acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds) and the Performance driving experience are aimed at sporty and lifestyle-oriented target groups.
"With the new GLA 35 we are rounding off our attractive portfolio of compact entry-level models to the world of Mercedes-AMG," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "Our wide portfolio in this segment therefore has seven models with which we are able to meet wide-ranging customer wishes and are systematically able to transfer our AMG philosophy of Driving Performance to our dynamically growing compact segment. The muscular design, superior performance and thrilling handling make the new GLA 35 a sporty crossover with hallmark AMG genes."
Characteristic of Mercedes-AMG, characteristically dynamic: the exterior design.
The design of the GLA 35 is based on the AMG Line, but also makes unmistakable statements with distinctive features. The AMG-specific radiator grille emphasises the model's membership of the AMG family. Other recognition features include the trim on the louvres in the outer air inlets and the front splitter in silver chrome, or optionally in high-gloss black. Eye-catching features when viewed from the side are the 19-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in tantalum grey with a high-sheen finish (other designs optionally available in 19, 20 or 21 inches) and the door panels with inserts in silver chrome or high-gloss black (optional). The rear view is dominated by the striking rear apron with a new diffuser insert, the AMG spoiler lip on the roof spoiler and the two round tailpipes on the left and right. The slim, two-section rear lights lend an impression of breadth to the GLA's rear.
Sporty interior with MBUX infotainment system.
In the vehicle interior, the high-tech ambience is complemented by the fully-digital displays. Characteristic touches include the seat upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with contrasting topstitching in red and red seat belts. The interior trim with a carbon-fibre structure and the air vents with a red ring provide further highlights. An interior in black/neva white ARTICO man-made leather is also available as standard. There are also four optional leather upholsteries.
The combination of sporty design and sophisticated details is also featured in the MBUX infotainment system with its innovative operating and display concept. Emotively appealing presentations underline the clear control structure and feature brilliant maximum-resolution 3D graphics. Visually, the two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a Widescreen Cockpit and as a central element consequently emphasise the horizontal orientation of the interior design.
Whether it's operated with the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, by voice control or gesture control: the control concept is both versatile and flexible. Thanks to the innovative voice control – activated with the keyword "Hey Mercedes" – the intelligent software recognises and understands practically all commands common in infotainment and vehicle control – even when expressed indirectly.
Fully-digital instrument cluster with AMG-specific displays.
The customer can choose between the three AMG display styles "Classic", "Sport" and "Supersport" for the instrument cluster. The "Supersport" mode is particularly striking with a central, round rev counter and additional information presented in the form of bars to the left and right of the rev counter: with a three-dimensional perspective, they reach far into the background to an artificial horizon. Via the AMG menu, the driver can call up various special displays such as Warm-up, Set-up, G-Force and Engine Data. With individual AMG displays such as visualisation of the driving modes or telemetry data, the touchscreen multimedia display likewise underlines the dynamic configuration.
The centre console in a piano-lacquer look finish with standard touchpad has additional buttons that control the functions 3-stage ESP®, manual transmission mode and the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptively adjustable damping.
AMG steering wheel generation with optional steering wheel buttons.
The multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather ensures first-class ergonomics and intuitive operation. The steering wheel rim with a flat bottom, perforated leather in the grip area and red contrasting topstitching is both attractive and pleasant to the touch. The galvanised steering wheel gearshift paddles allow an even sportier driving style with manual shift operations.
The optional AMG Performance steering wheel and accompanying AMG steering wheel buttons are visibly and tangibly configured for performance. The material is extremely grippy, and like the 12 o'clock marking is reminiscent of motorsport features. The steering wheel buttons allow fast and confident operation of specific dynamic functions – for a focussed and performance-oriented driving style.
Looking downwards, the brushed stainless steel sports pedals convey a motorsport-like look and functionality. The rubber studs ensure extra grip. The black floor mats with AMG lettering and a nubuck leather-look border emphasise AMG family membership.
AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive.
Dynamism, agility and performance – these three attributes characterise the standard all-wheel drive of the new AMG GLA 35 4MATIC. The variable AMG Performance 4MATIC combines the best possible traction with plenty of driving enjoyment. The torque distribution is infinitely variable to suit the dynamic handling requirements. The spectrum ranges from front-wheel drive only to a 50:50 percent distribution to the front and rear axles. A multi-disc clutch integrated into the rear axle differential is responsible for variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles. It is controlled electro-mechanically. The influencing factors for torque distribution are not only the driving speed, the lateral and longitudinal acceleration and the steering angle, but also the difference in rotational speed between the individual wheels, the gear selection and the accelerator position.
Contact your local LSH Auto dealership for more information.