Progressive in design, serene in day-to-day motoring and with an
off-road capability: as a wanderer between automotive applications, the
Mercedes-Benz GLA impressively reinterprets the compact SUV segment. It
lightfootedly masters all day-to-day challenges and is also robust
enough for off-road excursions.
The first Mercedes-Benz in the fast-growing compact SUV segment is
highly manoeuvrable around town (length x width x height 4417 x 1804 x
1494 millimetres), lively on country and pass roads and dynamic and
efficient on the motorway (Cd figure 0.29). The high-quality
appointments, developed with much love for detail, and the flexible
interior clearly position the GLA as a compact premium SUV.
The GLA is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to be optionally available with
the new-generation permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC, with fully
variable torque distribution.
The new GLA rounds off the extensive SUV portfolio of Mercedes-Benz.
With five model series (GLA, GLK, ML, GL and G) the company offers the
widest range of any European premium manufacturer, and meets all the
individual mobility wishes of its customers. At the same time the
GLA-Class is the fourth of a total of five new compact models from
Mercedes-Benz. The sales figures amply demonstrate how well the new
compact models are received by customers: In the first half of 2013, for
example, 173,362 units of the A and B-Class and the new CLA Coupé were
delivered worldwide (+58.0%). Especially gratifying is the high conquest
rate of the new A-Class: around 50 percent of the buyers in Europe come
from other brands.
"With the compact GLA we add a fifth attractive SUV variant to the
Mercedes-Benz model portfolio in this constantly growing segment. The
GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling,"
says Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing
Mercedes-Benz Cars. "So I am very confident that the GLA with its
fascinating design and high everyday practicality will fill many new
customers with enthusiasm for the Mercedes-Benz brand."
As a serene day-to-day companion the GLA has a flexible and variable
interior. The rear seat backrests can not only be folded down
completely, but are also adjustable for angle if required. The generous
luggage compartment (421 – 836 litres) is well-presented and can be
loaded without difficulty thanks to the low loading sill and the wide
tailgate, which opens automatically as an option.
The particularly rigid body structure provides a reliable basis for a
wide range of applications. Initially the power range of the 1.6 and
2.0-litre petrol engines will extend from 115 kW (156 hp) in the GLA 200
to 155 kW (211 hp) in the GLA 250.
The two diesel engines excel with dynamic torque and outstanding
efficiency: The GLA 200 CDI develops 100 kW (136 hp) and maximum torque
of 300 Nm and has a displacement of 2.2 litres. It emits only 114 g CO2
per kilometre (provisional figure). The GLA 220 CDI likewise has a
displacement of 2.2 litres and develops 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm.
The GLA will celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor
Show (IAA) in Frankfurt (12 to 22 September 2013). Orders will be taken
from the end of November, and the GLA will be in dealer showrooms in
2014.
Design: quality and self-assurance
Sensual clarity as an expression of modern luxury – this was the focus
for the designers, and is the design philosophy of Mercedes-Benz. The
aim is to create clear contours and smooth surfaces that communicate
high-tech while exuding emotional appeal as a meta-level. The sensual
clarity is reflected in the core design values of Tradition, Emotion and
Progression. These are the guiding star, and are accentuated
differently depending on the model. Mercedes-Benz creates a bridge
between modernity and the avant-garde, between tradition and
progression. Each model series has an assigned role and has a very
specific character, depending on the attributes on which the design
focusses. And yet a Mercedes-Benz is always recognisable as a
Mercedes-Benz. Because in addition to incorporating new stylistic
developments, and in the interests of keeping tradition alive, the
designers draw from a gene-pool of styling features typical of the
brand.
"With its striking features the GLA embodies our progressive thinking and enthrals with its off-road proportions," says Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design at Daimler AG. "The
clearly defined surfaces convey power and serenity, and we have managed
to combine as much emotional appeal as possible with as much clarity as
necessary."
As an SUV, the new GLA combines the design values of Progression and
Tradition, and is the SUV of the future. It is an all-rounder with
hallmark Mercedes-Benz SUV genes, but more youthful, sculptural and full
of subtle drama.
The low greenhouse, raised vehicle body and large wheel arches give the
GLA great appeal. The clearly defined surfaces are supplemented with
sharp lines that provide definition and precision, varying the
sculptured contours of the vehicle body which is sensitively modelled
and subtly dramatic.
The prominent and self-assured, upright front end with a central star
lends a muscular and superior impression to the GLA. Powerdomes
structure the bonnet as sporty features, and the twin-louvre grille
accentuates the vehicle's width. An impressive front aspect is ensured
by the headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. This iconic
Mercedes-Benz design feature was developed further using trifunctional
fibre-optics, and gives the vehicle its characteristic light signature.
The front bumper features diamond-pattern grilles in front of the
cooling air intakes. The optional fog lamps are integrated into the
front bumper. A simulated underride guard and contrasting dark-grey
claddings all-round emphasise the SUV characteristics of the GLA. These
claddings begin low down at the front bumper and provide protection
against stone impact.
The side view of the GLA likewise conveys power and serenity. Following
the design philosophy, the "dropping line" emerges at the headlamp and
extends to the rear wheel arch. The line of the beltline trim gradually
rises from the rear door to the C-pillar. Together the light-catching
contour on the curvature and the counter-line to the dropping line at
side sill height create an interplay of lines that lends the car flowing
dynamism and subtle drama. At the sides the cladding follows the
contours of the wheel arches and side sill panels into the rear bumper.
The side panel has depressions shaped like an excavator's teeth to
accentuate the SUV character. Roof trim strips complete the side view at
the top as standard, and as an optional extra aluminium roof rails in
high-gloss or polished black are available. On request the GLA is fitted
with tyres up to size 19-inch.
The muscular shoulders over the rear axle are emphasised even further by
the inward taper of the C-pillars. In combination with the divided tail
lights, this emphasises the width of the rear end. Its shape is both
dramatic and visually harmonious.
This impression is heightened by the curved rear window and the sweeping
chrome handle between the tail lights. Thanks to the divided tail
lights, the loading aperture is gratifyingly wide. The large,
aerodynamically very effective roof spoiler is another eye-catching
feature. It shares the structure of the rear roof cladding and
accommodates the third brake light. In the area of the rear bumper
cladding there are other SUV-specific features such as an extremely
robust external loading sill guard and a simulated underride guard
available in high-gloss black, matt silver or silver- shadow.
Interior: attractive design features and high perceived quality
The muscular and imposing appearance of the exterior is systematically
continued into the interior. This has a particularly high perceived
quality that is achieved by the contours, choice and combinations of
high-grade materials. All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver-shadow
for material authenticity, resulting in a metallic finish with a
"cool-touch" effect. The impression is one of perfect detail. The heavy
emphasis on horizontals, the dynamic design and the highly attractive
design features are other high-quality attributes. The same applies to
the great precision of joints and gap dimensions.
The dashboard consists of an upper and lower section, allowing surface
structures that are different in look and feel. Matt and glossy 3D
geometries (graining) create an attractive light effect. The
three-dimensional trim section of innovative membrane, aluminium or wood
lends a new, modern touch to the interior. The matt satin finish of the
wood trim is a further enhancement to the modernity, and makes the
surface particularly pleasant to the touch.
Five round air vents are integrated into the dashboard. As an exclusive
GLA feature, bezels are optionally available around these circular vents
whose SUV-look echoes the underride guard and side member claddings.
The bezels can be galvanised as an option. The direction of the airflow
can be varied by butterfly-shaped inserts which can be optionally
galvanised in silver-shadow.
The large, free-standing display has a high-gloss display facing in
piano-black and a flush-fitting surround in silver-shadow. This gives
the display a particularly high-quality look. A 3-spoke steering wheel
with 12 function keys and a galvanised chrome clasp is standard
equipment. On request an instrument cluster version with two tubes is
available. In this case there is a small dial instrument in each of the
large dial instruments. When at rest the needles are in the 6 o'clock
position. The needle inlays are always in silver.
The wide choice of seat upholsteries in material (e.g. leather, fabric,
fabric/leather) and colour combinations allows plenty of scope for
individualisation. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are
available as an optional extra.
The high quality of the sports seats is emphasised by the aperture in
the lower section of the head restraint. On the rear of the front seats
this aperture is framed by a surround in silver-shadow, and can have
ambience lighting on request. In addition to the equipment packages
Style, Urban, AMG and Exclusive, an SUV Style package is available that
accentuates the SUV character of the GLA even further. The highlight is
robust, colour-contrasting "moccasin" topstitching on the outer seat
contours.
If the optional Load Compartment package is ordered, the backrest of the
rear seat unit can be moved to a steeper position, the so-called cargo
position. This enlarges the load compartment capacity by 60 litres,
providing space for bulky items while still allowing the rear seats to
be used by passengers.
Set into a galvanised surround, the controls for the optional "electric
seat adjustment with memory" are arranged on the interior door panels in
typical Mercedes style – a unique feature in this segment. The interior
door panels are likewise of extremely high quality. The soft, matt
surfaces extend right from the beltline to the door pocket. In
combination with the equipment packages the door armrests have a
high-quality chrome trim strip and, as an option, ambience lighting.
Aerodynamics: goodbye to box-shaped
With the GLA, yet another model series becomes the leader in its segment
with respect to aerodynamic efficiency. Its Cd figure is 0.29. At 0.66
m2 the frontal area Cd x A, which decisively affects fuel consumption
from around 60 km/h, is likewise a top figure.
The good air flow characteristics, which are a major contributory factor
to the vehicle's low fuel consumption in everyday conditions, result
from numerous aerodynamic optimisation measures. These include a low
A-pillar step with suitable A-pillar geometry and aerodynamically
optimised exterior mirror housings. The rear end is also streamlined.
The measures here include the roof spoiler lip and the aerodynamically
shaped tail lights. Rear spoilers at the sides ensure that the airflow
breaks off for optimal aerodynamic efficiency. Seals in the front bumper
(radiator area incl. around the headlamps) and radiator shutters for
regulation of the cooling air as required round off the aerodynamic
measures.
Extensive underbody panelling, additional panelling in the middle area
of the rear axle and an aerodynamically optimised rear silencer followed
by a diffuser improve the flow of air beneath the underbody.
Numerous measures have also been taken to reduce wind noise in the GLA.
These e.g. include a multi-level door sealing concept, additional
sealing of the joint between the tailgate and the roof and side seals on
the tailgate. Particularly rigid window frames prevent the airflow from
pulling on the doors at higher speeds, and reduce vibrations. External
noise has also been minimised by the low A-pillar step and exterior
mirrors connected to the body by a stem.
Engines and transmissions: dynamic claim to leadership
The GLA can be driven with a fuel consumption of only 4.3 litres/100 km,
setting new standards in its segment. Modern four-cylinder engines with
turbocharging and direct injection, as well as an ECO start/stop
function as standard, make for this superior efficiency. The new
GLA-Class also takes the lead in its segment with its dynamic
performance figures.
Initially the power range of the 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines will
extend from 115 kW (156 hp) in the GLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the GLA
250. The GLA 250 4MATIC sprints from zero to 100 km/h in only 7.1
seconds, underlining the dynamic claim to leadership of the GLA-Class.
It has a top speed of 235 km/h and a combined consumption figure of just
7.1 l/100 km (151 g CO2/km – provisional figures).
The two diesel engines excel with dynamic torque and outstanding
efficiency: The GLA 200 CDI develops 100 kW (136 hp), a maximum torque
of 300 Nm and has a displacement of 2.2 litres. This engine has been
reengineered for greater efficiency. The modifications include
optimisation of the belt drive, a cylinder head package with different
roller bearings and additional finishing, optimisation of the vacuum
pump, aluminium pistons with optimised assembly clearances and a
low-friction ring package, the roller bearings of the Lanchester
balancer shaft and pressure sensor combustion control in the cylinder
head.
The GLA 200 CDI requires just 4.3 litres of fuel for 100 km, which
equates to 114 g CO2/km (provisional figures). It is rated efficiency
class A. The GLA 220 CDI also has a displacement of 2.2 litres, 125 kW
(170 hp) and 350 Nm.
All the engines feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The
engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the
7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission (standard for GLA 250, GLA 220
CDI and the 4MATIC models), which unites comfort and sportiness to an
outstanding degree.
An overview of the models:
| Model | GLA 200 | GLA 250/ GLA 250 4MATIC | GLA 200 CDI/ GLA 200 CDI 4MATIC | GLA 220 CDI/ GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC |
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 4 in-line | 4 in-line | 4 in-line | 4 in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 1595 | 1991 | 2143 | 2143 |
| Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) | 115/156 at 5300 | 155/211 at 5500 | 100/136 at 3600-4000 | 125/170 at 3600-4000 |
| Rated torque (Nm at rpm) | 250 at 1250-4000 | 350 at 1200-4000 | 300 at 1400-4000 | 350 at 1600-3200 |
(provisional figures)
Suspension: for guaranteed recreational fun
With the new GLA Mercedes-Benz is adding a new member to the successful
SUV family. This compact model reinterprets the SUV concept in a new,
modern way, because the GLA is less long-legged and imposing than
previous SUVs, and therefore fits perfectly into the day-to-day urban
lifestyle. At the same time the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the
robust body structure and the variable interior concept guarantee plenty
of recreational enjoyment. Motto: away from the daily routine. Rough
terrain – the beach, loose ground, unsurfaced gradients – all of these
are no problem for the GLA.
The chassis of the GLA features a McPherson front axle and an
independent multilink rear suspension. Three control arms and one
trailing arm per wheel manage the incoming forces. This means that
longitudinal and lateral dynamics are independent of one another. The
wheel carriers and spring control arms are of aluminium to reduce the
unsprung masses. In the versions with 4MATIC, the rear axle carrier is
isolated with rubber bushings for the benefit of ride comfort.
Compared to conventional systems, the electromechanical power steering
provides better feedback to the driver and makes an important
contribution to the vehicle's overall efficiency, as the servo
assistance only requires energy when the vehicle is actually steered. It
also allows various steering assistance functions that are initiated by
the ESP® control unit. These include countersteering when the vehicle
oversteers, steering corrections when braking on surfaces with different
levels of grip, reducing the effects of front-wheel drive on the
steering and compensation of cross-winds and road camber.
The GLA has an extremely rigid body, and therefore the basis for stable
and safe handling characteristics both on and off the road, as well as a
high level of NVH comfort. There are additional reinforcements e.g. to
the B-pillars, front damper domes, side members and underbody.
High traction reserves: 4MATIC all-wheel drive
The GLA from Mercedes-Benz is optionally available with a new generation
of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system featuring fully variable
torque distribution. This all-wheel drive system excels with high
traction reserves and outstanding agility combined with superlative
driving safety and energy efficiency.
The components of the 4MATIC system include the power take-off to the
rear axle that is integrated into the 7G-DCT automatic dual clutch
transmission, and the rear-axle gear with integrated,
electrohydraulically controlled multi-disc clutch. This set-up allows
fully variable distribution of the drive torque between front and rear
axles. Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight than
is available from the competition, and high efficiency.
Confident on light terrain: off-road functions
Models with 4MATIC are equipped with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and
an off-road transmission mode as standard. DSR is activated by a
control button in the centre console, and assists the driver on
demanding downhill stretches by maintaining a slow, manually selected
vehicle speed within the physical limits when negotiating downhill
gradients. This is done with the help of the engine and transmission
control systems, and by specific braking intervention.
When the off-road transmission mode is selected using the transmission
mode switch, the gearshift points and accelerator characteristics are
modified so that the requirements for driving on light off-road terrain
and particularly loose surfaces can be met. In combination with Audio 20
CD (standard) and COMAND Online (optional extra), the head unit can
also be switched to an off-road display. The steering angle, the
selected off-road transmission mode and a compass are displayed there.
The roll angle in degrees, the gradient in percent and activation of
Downhill Speed Regulation DSR are also indicated.
Smart safety: advanced assistance systems
Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the GLA and reduce
the driver's workload. Standard-fit features for the SUV include
ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION
PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect
against collisions from a speed of only 7 km/h.
This feature combines with DISTRONIC PLUS (optional extra) to become
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. This incorporates an additional
function: When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to
respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of
up to 200 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower
or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary
vehicles at a speed of up to 30 km/h, and is able to prevent rear-end
collisions at speeds of up to 20 km/h.
Established assistance systems, such as the optional Lane Tracking
package with Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist or Adaptive Highbeam
Assist, are also available for the GLA. Active Parking Assist (optional)
allows automatic parking in parallel and end-on parking spaces.
"Always on": the multimedia systems
The latest multimedia generation deployed in the GLA boasts new functions, additional apps and a modified graphic colour scheme.
Daimler's Digital Drive Style app concept, which together with the Drive
Kit Plus for the iPhone®" allows seamless integration of an iPhone®
into the vehicle, has been extended. The highlights include Siri voice
control and Glympse real-time location sharing. Glympse enables the user
to share his or her current location with selected persons. Additional
functions include Facebook®, Twitter®, internet radio, AUPEO!™ personal
radio and the advanced navigation system from Garmin® with
internet-based real-time traffic information, an online POI search
function including Street View™ and a 3D map display.
The COMAND Online multimedia system has also been extended. The latest
generation offers improved, photo-realistic map display, an additional
Bluetooth® profile (to enable the internet to be accessed via iPhone®,
for example, the display of images additionally in bmp and png formats
and the real-time transfer of traffic data via LIVE TRAFFIC.
No comments:
Post a Comment