2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA price and specifications

Mercedes’ facelifted GLA SUV has landed in Australia, sporting new equipment and styling tweaks.

First launched in 2013 as the firm’s first compact cross-over, the GLA has enjoyed moderate success in SUV-loving Australia, claiming leadership in the compact premium segment.

For 2017, Mercedes-Benz has given the GLA “a more powerful appearance” thanks to re-worked radiator grille, front and rear bumpers. New wheels for most models complete the external changes.

The GLA update was first detailed at the 2017 Detroit motor show.

Inside, an upgraded instrument cluster and larger 8.0-inch touchscreen are met with lashings of silver chrome and new trims.

The German manufacturer has added as standard LED headlights across the range. Hands-free access including a neat boot feature that allows users to open the rear door by swiping their foot under the bumper is also standard on all but the entry-level GLA 180.

The GLA scores autonomous braking as standard equipment and it gives an audible warning of an impending collision first then, in case of inaction from the driver, stops the car by itself. It also has a fatigue-detection system, along with Benz’s usual array of electronic safety systems.

The changes correspond with a minor price hike across the regular range. The petrol-powered GLA 180 now starts at $43,900 plus on-road costs (up $1000), the all-wheel drive GLA 250 4MATIC starts at $60,700 plus on-road costs (up $800) and the diesel powered GLA 220d starts at $51,200 plus on-road costs (replacing the GLA 200d which started at $48,900).

The biggest price hike comes in the form of the GLA performance variant, the GLA 45 4MATIC. Its sticker price has climbed $5885 to $89,500 plus on-road costs.

The all-wheel drive mini monster will rip to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds and is limited to 250km/h. It uses constantly variable all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the drive split ranging from pure front-wheel drive to a 50:50 front-to-rear split.

The quicker acceleration is said to carry over in real-world conditions, thanks largely to AMG giving it shorter ratios on every gear except first and second.

The options list is as extensive as ever, now incorporating a 360-degree camera that is available on all variants.

Mercedes-Benz Australia is also offering a White Art Edition pack for non-AMG models (between $3280-$3780 depending on model) and a Yellow Night Edition for the GLA 45 ($3990).

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA pricing (plus ORCs):
GLA 180 -- $43,900
GLA 220 d -- $51,200
GLA 250 4MATIC -- $60,700
GLA 45 4MATIC -- $89,500