The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200d, produced from January 2017 to October 2019 as part of the X156 facelift generation, represented an entry-level diesel option within the GLA compact SUV range. Positioned below the GLA 220d and GLA 250 variants, the 200d aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and practicality for buyers seeking a premium crossover. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines held significant market share, offering a more economical alternative to gasoline-powered GLA models. It built upon the foundation of the original X156 GLA, introduced in 2014, incorporating styling and technology updates with the facelift.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLA |
| Generation | GLA (X156, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | GLA 200d (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2017 |
| End of production | October, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.5-3.8 l/100 km (67.2 – 61.9 US mpg, 80.7 – 74.3 UK mpg, 28.6 – 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg, 67.3 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.8 – 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 110-115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1400-3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.930 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 421 l (14.87 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4424 mm (174.17 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1494 mm (58.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 812 mm (31.97 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.84 m (38.85 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.8° |
| Departure angle | 21.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 13.3° |
| 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| 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 | 215/60 R17; 215/55 R18; 235/50 R18; 235/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 6.5J x 18; 7J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLA 200d was powered by the OM651.930 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine utilized a common rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further contributed to the engine’s performance. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 3200-4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-3000 rpm. The engine also incorporated a particulate filter and a Start & Stop system to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The GLA 200d, with its 136 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, offered a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.5 seconds, making it less performance-oriented than the GLA 220d or GLA 250. The torque band, peaking at 300 Nm, provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations, including highway overtaking. The manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement compared to the optional 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission available on higher-spec models. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to sportier variants. Overall, the driving experience prioritized comfort and fuel economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLA 200d typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic infotainment system with a central display screen. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added features like chrome exterior trim, upgraded interior materials, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The GLA 200d utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sharp handling. The relatively modest power output of the 200d meant that the braking system was generally adequate for everyday use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLA 200d was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the GLA range. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively low running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the higher-output variants, and the manual transmission could feel somewhat dated compared to the automatic options. Compared to the GLA 220d, the 200d offered significantly better fuel economy but slower acceleration. The GLA 250, with its gasoline engine, provided more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 200d appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over performance.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the OM651.930 found in the GLA 200d, has a reputation for durability and reliability. While diesel engines can be susceptible to issues with the particulate filter and fuel injection system, the OM651 is generally considered a robust and long-lasting engine when properly maintained. On the used car market, the GLA 200d represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz compact SUV segment. Its fuel efficiency and proven powertrain make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and reliable vehicle.
