The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 (H247), produced from 2020 to 2023, represents the entry point into the second-generation GLA compact SUV range. Positioned as a premium crossover, the GLA 200 aimed to attract buyers seeking a stylish, technologically advanced vehicle with reasonable running costs. It served as a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to expand its presence in the burgeoning compact SUV segment, particularly in European and Asian markets, offering a more accessible price point compared to higher-trim GLA variants. This model utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration and a dual-clutch transmission, differentiating it from the available all-wheel-drive options and other engine choices within the H247 lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLA |
| Generation | GLA (H247) |
| Type (Engine) | GLA 200 (163 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 148-168 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.2-7.4 l/100 km (32.7 – 31.8 US mpg, 39.2 – 38.2 UK mpg, 13.9 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.9-5.2 l/100 km (48 – 45.2 US mpg, 57.6 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.6-5.9 l/100 km (42 – 39.9 US mpg, 50.4 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.9 – 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 129-135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1620-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282 DE 14 AL |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1430 l (50.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4410 mm (173.62 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 776 mm (30.55 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 143 mm (5.63 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Approach angle | 18.3° |
| Departure angle | 22.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLA 200 is powered by Mercedes-Benz’s M 282 DE 14 AL 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. It features direct fuel injection and is turbocharged with an intercooler to enhance power output. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1620 and 4000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (G-DCT), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine incorporates particulate filter technology to meet stringent Euro 6d ISC-FCM emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The GLA 200, with its 163 hp and front-wheel-drive configuration, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.7 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for merging onto highways and overtaking maneuvers. The G-DCT transmission ensures responsive shifts, and the engine’s torque curve provides good drivability in various conditions. Compared to higher-output GLA variants like the GLA 250, the 200 offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive setup provides good traction in normal conditions, but may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLA 200 typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features, including automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was generally Artico leatherette, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Available options included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various driver assistance packages. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive enhancements in terms of interior appointments and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The GLA 200 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and handling. Braking systems typically consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels, although some markets offered all-disc setups. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The GLA 200’s chassis is designed to provide stability and control, with a relatively low center of gravity for a compact SUV.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLA 200 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and stylish entry-level luxury SUV. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as engaging as that of higher-trim models. In terms of fuel economy, the GLA 200 offered competitive figures within its segment, achieving between 5.6 and 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers (42-39.9 US mpg) on the combined NEDC cycle. Compared to the GLA 250, the 200 offered a lower price point but sacrificed some performance. The 1.3L engine was considered a good balance between efficiency and usability.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 (H247) has established itself as a reliable and relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. The M 282 engine, while not without its minor reported issues (such as potential oil consumption in some early units), has proven to be generally durable. On the used car market, the GLA 200 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a premium compact SUV with a reasonable maintenance cost. Its combination of style, technology, and fuel efficiency continues to make it a popular choice among used car shoppers.
