The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e, introduced in March 2023 as part of the H247 facelift, represents a significant step in the compact luxury SUV segment by offering a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This variant combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 218 horsepower. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GLA lineup, the 250e caters to buyers seeking improved fuel efficiency and the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone, without sacrificing the premium feel and features associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand. It builds upon the foundation of the GLA, which itself is based on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLA |
| Generation | GLA (H247, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | GLA 250e (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 8G-DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.1-1.4 l/100 km (213.8 – 168 US mpg, 256.8 – 201.8 UK mpg, 90.9 – 71.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 24-31 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 15.6 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 11.5 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 63-70 km (39.15 – 43.5 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 18.9-20.4 kWh/100 km (30.42 – 32.83 kWh/100 mi, 111 – 103 MPGe, 5.3 – 4.9 km/kWh, 3.3 – 3 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 109 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 385 l (13.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1385 l (48.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4412 mm (173.7 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Front overhang | 907 mm (35.71 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 776 mm (30.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLA 250e’s powertrain centers around the M 282 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, utilizes direct injection and a single turbocharger to produce 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 270 Nm (199.14 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 3500 rpm. The electric motor, positioned between the engine and the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (8G-DCT), contributes an additional 109 horsepower and 300 Nm (221.27 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 218 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque. The 11.5 kWh usable battery capacity allows for an all-electric range of 63-70 km (39.15 – 43.5 miles) under WLTP testing. The battery is located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on passenger or cargo space. The 8G-DCT transmission is crucial for efficiently managing power delivery from both the engine and the electric motor, offering smooth and quick gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The GLA 250e offers a distinct driving experience compared to its gasoline-only counterparts. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and responsive torque, making it ideal for urban driving. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless. The combined power output delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.9 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the GLA 35 or AMG variants, the 250e provides ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. The 8G-DCT transmission contributes to a refined driving experience, with well-chosen gear ratios optimizing both fuel efficiency and performance. The weight of the battery pack does add some mass, slightly impacting handling compared to lighter GLA models, but the overall driving dynamics remain composed and predictable.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLA 250e typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features often include Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as active brake assist and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of synthetic leather and fabric, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Optional extras can include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance packages. Trim levels may vary by market, but generally offer increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The GLA 250e utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporates a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control as standard safety features. The added weight of the battery pack necessitates a slightly more robust braking system compared to the standard GLA models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLA 250e has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and the convenience of plug-in hybrid technology. Compared to the gasoline-powered GLA 250, the 250e offers significantly improved fuel economy and the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone. However, it comes at a higher price point. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the GLA 250e offers a competitive combination of performance, luxury, and technology. Some reviewers have noted that the electric range is somewhat limited compared to some rivals, but it is sufficient for many daily commutes.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e represents a key step in Mercedes-Benz’s electrification strategy. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the M 282 engine has proven to be generally reliable in other applications. The 8G-DCT transmission is also a well-established and dependable unit. The plug-in hybrid powertrain is expected to offer good longevity with proper maintenance. As the used car market matures, the GLA 250e is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced compact luxury SUV. Its combination of electric driving capability and the reassurance of a gasoline engine positions it as a practical and appealing option in the growing plug-in hybrid segment.
