Mercedes-benz GLA200D 8G-DCT

The turbodiesel GLA comes back for a second bite at the cherry but an inflated price tag POST-COVID poses a challenge

It’s amazing when you think about how much has changed in the premium compact crossover segment since the firstgeneration GLA was introduced in 2014. What started as a niche category aimed at youthful and active consumers has evolved into the new family car for those with a taste for the finer things. As with the previous generation, the new GLA aims to be the crossover that introduces new buyers to the Mercedes-benz family but the difference between the two generations is the purchase price as standard. When we tested it in June 2014, the price of the GLA200 CDI was R439 700. Its successor here pushes that up to R714 560. Even factoring in inflation, that is a considerable price increase for a vehicle courting the same buyer.

Thankfully, the evolution between generations is not a minor one. The new GLA sits on the MFA2 platform which provides superior packaging and comfort while the turbodiesel at the helm – despite being smaller than the unit it replaces – offers more power and better fuel economy. Ignoring inflation and a tax increase, the question remains, is this significant jump in price justifiable for the brand’s entrylevel crossover?

In standard guise, the GLA200D boasts a rather peculiar spec configuration. The compact crossover features an electronic tailgate, 10,25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and active parking assist with Parktronic by means of the Advanced Package. Not included, however, are pretty common comfort features such as keyless go and electrically adjustable seats. These can be added individually or via the Premium Plus package, which includes the 360-degree parking

Improved over the previous generation, no doubt, but the competition is nipping at its heels Nikesh Kooverjee

Conservatively styled and more expensive than we’d like (what isn’t nowadays?), the drive still impresses Ray Leathern