The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 stands out in the compact SUV segment, blending luxury, versatility, and performance in a stylish package. This model year offers a compelling mix of standard equipment and optional upgrades, making it an attractive choice for discerning drivers. Let’s delve into the details of the 2017 Benz Gla 250, exploring its key features and specifications.
The GLA 250 comes generously equipped right from the base model. Exterior highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels that enhance its athletic stance, privacy glass for added discretion, and practical fog lights for improved visibility. Automatic wipers and a power liftgate add convenience, while cruise control makes highway driving more relaxed.
Inside the cabin of the 2017 benz gla 250, dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passenger. The driver enjoys a 14-way power-adjustable seat with 4-way power lumbar support, while the passenger seat offers 10-way manual adjustability and a fold-flat feature for enhanced cargo flexibility. Driver memory settings, a driver information display, and selectable driving modes further personalize the driving experience. The premium MB-Tex vinyl upholstery is both durable and refined, complemented by ambient interior lighting that sets a sophisticated mood. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks with a cargo pass-through add to the practicality of this compact SUV.
On the technology front, the 2017 benz gla 250 features a 7-inch central display controlled via a console-mounted knob. Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader, and two USB ports are all standard. Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system offers optional subscription-based services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and concierge services, further enhancing connectivity and convenience.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the all-wheel-drive GLA250 4Matic adds hill descent control, boosting its sport-activity credentials. An off-road status monitor integrated into the 7-inch display provides real-time information on steering angle, tilt angle, and grade percentage, valuable for adventurous drivers.
To further tailor the 2017 benz gla 250 to individual preferences, Mercedes-Benz offers several attractive packages. The Premium package elevates the experience with a rearview camera for easier parking, blind-spot monitoring for increased safety, keyless entry and ignition for seamless access, and heated front seats for cold-weather comfort. Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with satellite radio included in this package.
The Multimedia package enhances the infotainment system with a larger 8-inch screen, a navigation system for effortless route guidance, voice controls for hands-free operation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity with personal devices.
For a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package adds 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, and more aggressively styled exterior elements. The Night package, exclusively available with the Sport package, further amplifies the sporty look with black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents. Inside, the Interior package delivers leather seating, front sport seats for added support, upgraded ambient interior lighting, and refined MB-Tex dash trim.
Advanced driver assistance features are available through the Driver Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, contributing to a safer and more confident driving experience. Lastly, the Convenience package adds auto-dimming mirrors and a garage door opener for everyday ease of use.
Standalone options for the 2017 benz gla 250 provide further customization, including some of the packaged items mentioned above, as well as xenon headlights and LED taillights for improved visibility and a modern look. A panoramic sunroof brings an open and airy feel to the cabin, while parking sensors combined with an automated parking system simplify urban maneuvering. A 14-way power passenger seat with memory is also available as a standalone option, mirroring the driver’s seat adjustability.
For those seeking high-performance thrills, the AMG GLA 45 variant of the 2017 benz gla 250 is the ultimate choice. Standard all-wheel drive is paired with a significantly more powerful engine, a sport exhaust system, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and steering, and upgraded brakes. Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, a power passenger seat, MB-Tex/simulated-suede upholstery, and distinctive AMG styling cues, such as a more aggressive front fascia, flared wheel arches, and quad tailpipes, are also standard on the AMG model.
AMG GLA 45 options largely mirror those of the GLA 250 but include 20-inch wheels, Recaro sport seats for ultimate support, an upgraded steering wheel for enhanced feel, a large rear spoiler for added downforce, and a performance exhaust for an even more exhilarating sound. The AMG GLA 45 can also be equipped with most of the GLA 250 packages, except for the Sport or Night packages. The unique Dynamic Plus package for the AMG GLA 45 adds adaptive suspension dampers, a limited-slip front differential, a Race driving mode, and an increased top speed, maximizing track performance. Carbon-fiber exterior trim, an Aerodynamics package, and the AMG Dinamica package further enhance both performance and visual appeal.
Under the hood, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a responsive seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for manual gear selection. In independent track testing, the GLA250 4Matic impressively accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, outperforming Mercedes’ own estimate of 7.1 seconds.
The AMG GLA 45 takes performance to another level, extracting an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque from the same 2.0-liter engine. A quicker-shifting version of the seven-speed transmission channels power to all four wheels. The AMG GLA 45 also features a three-mode stability control system and available launch control, enabling blistering acceleration. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds for the AMG GLA 45.
Both the 2017 benz gla 250 and the AMG GLA 45 models incorporate an automatic stop-start function to conserve fuel in stop-and-go traffic. Fuel economy is commendable for the segment, with the front-wheel-drive GLA250 achieving an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway). The GLA250 4Matic achieves 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway), while the high-performance AMG GLA 45 still manages a respectable 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 offers a compelling entry into the luxury compact SUV market. With its blend of standard features, customizable options, refined performance, and reasonable fuel economy, the GLA 250 and its high-performance AMG GLA 45 sibling cater to a wide range of drivers seeking a premium and versatile vehicle.
