There’s a definite boom in the compact crossover segment and we’re loving the results. Mercedes-Benz brings their first entry in the fast-growing segment with the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, a versatile small car that can handle the city as well as the offroad.
Granted, we doubt it’s the ideal car to bring during extended outdoor adventures that have you running through mud, rocks and sand (that’s more a job for the MB G63 AM6 6×6), but it should negotiate rougher terrain capably all the same. The vehicle shares a lot of styling and design cues with the automaker’s A-Class models, although it gets beefed up on almost every front to bring a stronger, tougher stance that befits the ride’s “light offroad” potentials.
Powered by a turbocharged direct-injected 2-liter 4-cylinder engine paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class boasts 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, enough to power it to top speeds of 145 mph and a 0 to 60 time of 6.4 seconds. Features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with downhill speed regulation, a new electromechanical steering system, ECO stop/start, and a whole load of safety features (Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot and more).  Inside, it gets a flexible cargo-area with rear-folding seats, a freestanding dashboard display, a three-spoke steering wheel with 12 function keys, a selection of seat upholstery (MB-Tex or leather), and an “always on” multimedia system.
Mercedes-Benz will show off the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The first model, GLA250, will go on sale in the fall of next year.
