We take a new version of Merc’s baby SUV, the GLA 220d 4Matic Activity Edition, for a quick spin.
What’s it like to drive?
One major change in the way the GLA drives has been thanks to the revision of its driving modes. The button that toggled between Comfort, Sport and Economy has now been replaced by a new button that says ‘Dynamic Select’. Over and above the three existing modes, you also have an Individual mode that lets owners mix and match certain performance parameters, and an Off-road mode, designed to keep the engine in the optimal rev range to cross tricky surfaces. While these modes change engine and steering response, there’s no change to suspension or any other aspect that affects the car’s dynamics. Changing modes bring up their appropriate display on the central multimedia screen that shows some interesting bits of information such as the steering angle of the front wheels, pitch and yaw – a nice touch when engaging in some light off-roading. And speaking of light off-roading, there’s also a DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) button – Merc’s equivalent of hill-descent control, which helps you traverse down steep declines without manually operating the brakes.
Put the GLA 220d in Sport mode and the extra poke of the motor really shines through. Acceleration is brisk, but not neck-snapping by any means, but keeping the throttle buried to the firewall is certain to put a smile on most faces. Of course, a thorough road test later will allow us to put some numbers on its fun factor. Unlike its less-powerful sibling though, the GLA is enjoyable when driving aggressively, and when you calm things down, put it in Comfort mode and start puttering around, the extra dose of torque from the motor makes the experience as pleasurable. The seven-speed dual clutch transmission is smooth and can be controlled through the steering-mounted paddles. However, while upshifting is just fine, it’s not particularly responsive when shifting down.