The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA emerges as a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of luxury, versatility, and performance. This model year boasts a range of standard features, customizable packages, and standalone options to cater to diverse driver preferences. For those considering a pre-owned luxury SUV, understanding the specifics of the 2016 GLA is crucial.
The base GLA250 model is well-equipped right from the start. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and provides privacy glass for enhanced passenger comfort and a sleek exterior appearance. Practicality is addressed with a roof rack for additional cargo-carrying capability and foglamps for improved visibility in challenging weather conditions. A power liftgate adds convenience to cargo access, while automatic wipers and cruise control enhance the driving experience.
Inside the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA250, the driver benefits from a 14-way power-adjustable seat, complete with driver memory settings, ensuring optimal comfort and personalized positioning. The front passenger enjoys a 10-way manually adjustable seat. MB-Tex vinyl upholstery provides a durable and refined seating surface, complemented by a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel for further ergonomic customization. The 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, featuring a cargo pass-through, enhance cargo and passenger flexibility.
Image of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Class front interior, highlighting the dashboard and instrument panel, showcasing its simple and clear design.
Technologically, the 2016 GLA250 incorporates a 7-inch central display, controlled via a console-mounted knob, serving as the infotainment hub. Connectivity features include a media interface for digital music players, Bluetooth for both phone calls and audio streaming, and an audio system equipped with a CD player, HD radio, and a USB audio input.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the all-wheel-drive GLA250 4Matic variant adds hill-descent control, valuable for managing steep terrains. Furthermore, an off-road status monitor integrated into the 7-inch display provides real-time information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, reinforcing its sport-activity vehicle credentials.
Mercedes-Benz offered several packages to elevate the 2016 GLA’s features. The Premium package introduces auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry and ignition for added convenience, heated front seats for cold-weather comfort, and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system with satellite radio for superior sound quality.
The Multimedia package focuses on enhancing the infotainment experience with a larger 8-inch screen, a hard-drive-based navigation system, voice controls for hands-free operation, and a rearview camera to aid in parking and maneuvering. An in-dash SD card reader expands media options, and five years of real-time traffic and weather updates keep drivers informed.
For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package includes 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. Building upon the Sport package, the Night package adds black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents for a distinctive and bolder appearance.
The Interior package elevates cabin luxury with leather seating, front sport seats for improved support, multi-color ambient lighting to personalize the interior atmosphere, and MB-Tex dash trim for a refined touch.
Safety and driver assistance are addressed with the Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, lane-departure warning to alert the driver of unintentional lane drifts, and a blind-spot monitor to enhance awareness of surrounding vehicles.
Beyond packages, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a range of standalone options. These included some features available in packages, allowing for à la carte customization. Bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights provided improved visibility and a modern lighting signature. A panoramic sunroof brought in more natural light and fresh air. Parking sensors combined with an automated parking system simplified parking maneuvers. A power passenger seat with memory mirrored the driver’s seat adjustability. For added safety, a standalone blind-spot monitor option was also available, along with aluminum interior trim for a different cabin aesthetic.
At the top of the range, the high-performance AMG GLA 45 came standard with all-wheel drive and incorporated the GLA250’s standard features as a foundation. It then amplified performance with a more powerful engine, a sport exhaust system for an exhilarating sound, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and steering for sharper handling, and upgraded brakes to match the increased performance. Visually, the AMG GLA 45 distinguished itself with standard bi-xenon headlights, more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes. Inside, a power passenger seat and ambient lighting were also standard.
Options for the AMG GLA 45 largely mirrored those of the GLA250, but with performance-oriented additions. Recaro sport seats provided enhanced lateral support for spirited driving, while an upgraded steering wheel offered a sportier feel. A large rear spoiler further emphasized its performance intentions. The Dynamic Plus package, succeeding the previous Driver’s package, included 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers to adjust to driving conditions, a limited-slip front differential for improved traction, a “Race” driving mode for track-focused performance, and a higher top speed capability. Multiple carbon-fiber trim packages and the Aerodynamics Package offered both performance enhancements and aesthetic customization.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA presents a well-rounded compact SUV with a comprehensive set of standard features and extensive customization possibilities through packages and standalone options. Whether prioritizing luxury, sporty aesthetics, advanced technology, or high performance with the AMG GLA 45, the 2016 GLA offered a variety of configurations to meet diverse needs and preferences within the compact luxury SUV market.
