The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class marked the entry of Mercedes-Benz into the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of luxury, versatility, and performance. This model year provided a range of features and customization options to cater to diverse buyer preferences. Let’s delve into a detailed overview of what the 2015 GLA Class had to offer, focusing on the GLA250 and the high-performance GLA 45 AMG variants.
Standard Features of the 2015 GLA250
The base 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 came well-equipped with a host of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and style. Exterior highlights included 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass for rear passengers, and practical roof rails for additional cargo carrying capacity. Fog lamps improved visibility in adverse weather, while a power liftgate added convenience for accessing the cargo area. Automatic wipers responded intelligently to changing weather conditions, and cruise control provided ease on longer drives.
Inside, the GLA250 offered 10-way power front seats with 4-way power lumbar support and driver memory settings, ensuring personalized comfort. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provided a luxurious feel, while a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel further optimized driver ergonomics. The 60/40-split-folding rear seat with a pass-through enhanced cargo and passenger flexibility. For in-car entertainment and connectivity, the GLA250 featured a 5.8-inch central display managed by the COMAND interface. mbrace2 telematics and smartphone integration offered connected services, alongside Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming, a CD player, HD radio, and a USB audio input. Hill-descent control and an off-road transmission mode subtly hinted at its capability beyond paved roads.
Available Packages for Enhanced Features
For buyers seeking more premium features, Mercedes-Benz offered several packages for the 2015 GLA250. The Premium package elevated comfort with auto-dimming mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control. It also added a compass, heated front seats for colder climates, and a Harman Kardon audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface for superior sound and entertainment options.
The Multimedia package focused on technology upgrades, incorporating a navigation system displayed on a larger 7-inch central screen, voice controls for various vehicle functions, a rearview camera for easier parking, and a 10GB music server for storing digital music. For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package included 19-inch wheels, a more aggressively styled front fascia and side sills, and upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power. The Interior package brought further luxury with leather seating, front sport seats for added bolstering, a black headliner, and MB-Tex dash trim. Finally, the Driver Assistance package enhanced safety with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot warning systems.
Stand-Alone Options for Personalization
Beyond packages, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class offered a range of stand-alone options for further customization. These included bi-xenon headlamps for improved nighttime visibility and a panoramic sunroof to bring in more natural light. Adaptive cruise control could also be selected individually, along with an illuminated grille emblem for added visual flair. Parking sensors paired with an automated parking system simplified parking in tight spaces. Keyless ignition and entry added everyday convenience, while heated front seats and wood interior trim provided further comfort and aesthetic enhancements. A lower-cost navigation system integrated into the standard 5.8-inch display was available as an alternative to the Multimedia package navigation, along with a stand-alone iPod/media player interface, satellite radio, and Harman Kardon premium sound system.
The Exclusive Edition 1 Package
For a select few, Mercedes-Benz offered a limited “Edition 1” package for the 2015 GLA250, with only 750 units available. This exclusive package featured a distinctive white paint finish, a unique two-tone brown leather/cloth interior, bi-xenon headlamps, and gloss black 19-inch wheels and body trim. A panoramic sunroof, blind spot assist, and the illuminated grille emblem further enhanced its appeal. Aluminum interior accents and the inclusion of the Premium, Multimedia, and Interior packages ensured a high level of luxury and technology.
2015 GLA 45 AMG: High-Performance Variant
For enthusiasts seeking elevated performance, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG delivered. Building upon the GLA250’s standard features, the AMG variant boasted a more powerful engine, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and steering for sharper handling, and upgraded brakes for increased stopping power. Bi-xenon headlights and AMG-specific styling tweaks, including a more aggressive front fascia and lower body metallic accents, distinguished it visually.
Options for the GLA 45 AMG largely mirrored those of the GLA250, but also included performance-oriented choices like Recaro seats for enhanced support during spirited driving, an upgraded steering wheel with suede-like trim for improved grip, a performance exhaust system for a more aggressive sound, a large rear spoiler, and an Aerodynamics package with further exterior styling enhancements. The Driver’s package added 20-inch wheels, a firmer suspension for track-focused performance, and red brake calipers for a sporty visual touch. Various body styling packages with unique colors and trim further allowed for personalization.
Conclusion
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class presented a compelling entry into the compact SUV market, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, practical versatility, and engaging performance, particularly in the AMG variant. With a wide array of standard features, optional packages, and stand-alone choices, buyers could tailor the GLA Class to meet their specific needs and preferences, making it a desirable option in its segment.
