Mercedes confirmed the launch of the new GLA-Class in the American market in spring of 2014 with the font-wheel-drive GLA250, followed by the 4MATIC version in fall. The 4MATIC version of the small crossover car is dubbed “multi-talented” and offers a good compromise between efficiency and driving fun, while its all-wheel-drive system offers a fair bit of off-road capability.  

Under the bonnet of Mercedes GLA250 you find a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine that generates 208 hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque. With the help of all-wheel-drive and a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, this engine takes the GLA from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 145 mph.

Thanks to various many fuel-saving features such as turbocharging and direct injection, as well as an ECO start/stop and precise aerodynamic design, GLA250 is also quite economical. Official EPA ratings are yet to be announced, but Mercedes reckons they’ll be on the par with that of a small hatchback.

Small and cuddly the GLA might be, but it features a McPherson front axle and an independent multilink rear suspension and a host of clever electronic systems that join forces with the 4MATIC and the dual-clutch gearbox to enable very decent off-road capabilities. What’s more, this setup works brilliantly on the road as well, neutralizing all sort of unwanted body roll and under or oversteer.

Mercedes GLA250 is also blessed with a full range of safety and connectivity systems. It comes with ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with autonomous braking, as well as DISTRONIC PLUS and Park Assist. The always-on connectivity service mbrace2 is also included.

Prices for the front- and all-wheel-drive versions of Mercedes GLA250 will be revealed closer to launch.