Carving a slice of the compact SUV market

摘要

Mercedes-Benz is hoping to gain a share of the demand for compact SUVs following the March launch of its GLA-Class. The GLA shares the platform of the A-Class and CLA-Class and uses many interior items familiar to any A-Class early adopter. That familiarity may be useful in encouraging such customers to move up to Mercedes' newest launch, which looks more like a plumped-up, aerodynamic hatchback than a bulky off-roader. It has a freshly designed bodyshell and sits up to 8cm higher than the A-Class, but its roofline still falls 10cm lower than a Nissan Qashqai. The GLA-Class also shares engines with its siblings - options include a 208hp 2.0-litre petrol, and two 2.1-litre diesels, with 134hp or 168bhp. Mercedes said the car is designed to fit into a modern, urban lifestyle, yet face no fears from unsurfaced gradients, beaches or loose surfaces. To illustrate this, the press launch included driving 180 metres below the ground in a salt mine at Winsford. Expect many of its sales to be to 30- and 40-something executives. Representative monthly payments could be below £400 on Mercedes' three-year PCP. Lower-powered GLAs get front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, but the upper echelons of the range come only with a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive, which can send up to 100% of engine power to the rear wheels. AWD models also get a hill descent control system and an off-road mode for the gearing, although the small increase in ground clearance won't suit buyers planning to climb mountains. Every version comes with air-conditioning, 18in alloys, automatic lights and wipers, a digital radio, reversing camera, faux leather upholstery, Bluetooth and a boot 140 litres larger than the A-Class's. Upgrading from standard SE to higher AMG Line trim brings some AMG bodystyling tweaks, speed-sensitive power steering, sports seats and a dynamic handling package of 15mm lower suspension and firmer springs and dampers. The GLA is well equipped and keenly priced to do battle in this competitive segment of the market.