The Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 CDI, produced from September 2014 to 2017, represents the entry point into the first-generation (X156) GLA compact SUV range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and relatively affordable option, it catered to buyers seeking the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand in a smaller, more accessible package. This variant was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel engines and compact SUVs were particularly popular. The GLA 180 CDI aimed to balance practicality, comfort, and running costs, offering a blend of features suitable for both urban commuting and occasional longer journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLA |
| Generation | GLA (X156) |
| Type (Engine) | GLA 180 CDI (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.6-4 l/100 km (65.3 – 58.8 US mpg, 78.5 – 70.6 UK mpg, 27.8 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4-4.3 l/100 km (58.8 – 54.7 US mpg, 70.6 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 105-113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 79.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 607.951 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4417 mm (173.9 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 | 906 mm (35.67 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° |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 CDI, launched in September 2014, was a key component of the X156 GLA series, Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the burgeoning compact luxury crossover segment. Built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel Drive Architecture) platform – shared with other compact models like the A-Class and B-Class – the GLA aimed to attract a younger, more urban demographic to the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 180 CDI variant, powered by a 1.5-liter diesel engine, served as the most economical and accessible option within the GLA lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines held a significant market share and compact SUVs were gaining popularity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GLA 180 CDI is the OM 607.951 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine employs a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The GLA 180 CDI was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7G-DCT) was available as an option. The automatic transmission offered smoother gear changes and enhanced convenience, but at a slight cost to fuel economy. The engine also incorporated a Start & Stop system to further reduce fuel consumption in urban driving conditions, and a particulate filter to minimize emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The GLA 180 CDI, with its 109 horsepower and front-wheel drive configuration, offered a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12 seconds, making it noticeably slower than higher-powered GLA variants like the GLA 250. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque provided adequate performance for everyday driving situations, such as merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control over gear selection, while the optional 7G-DCT automatic provided seamless shifts. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, although it didn’t offer the same level of sporty handling as some of its competitors. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the GLA 180 CDI prioritized fuel efficiency and comfort over outright performance, making it a suitable choice for drivers who primarily used the vehicle for commuting and everyday errands.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLA 180 CDI typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, including air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a color infotainment display, and Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather or Artico (synthetic leather) available at an extra cost. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, a premium sound system, and various driver assistance systems such as parking assist and lane keeping assist. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered progressively more luxurious features and equipment. The Style trim added cosmetic enhancements, while the AMG Line trim included sporty body styling, upgraded wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension.
Chassis & Braking
The GLA 180 CDI utilized a McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employed a multi-link setup, also with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, further enhancing ride quality and stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in emergency situations. The GLA 180 CDI’s relatively low weight – around 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs) – contributed to its fuel efficiency and manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLA 180 CDI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical entry-level luxury crossover. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 4.0 to 4.3 l/100 km (58.8 – 54.7 US mpg). However, some critics noted its relatively modest performance compared to higher-powered GLA variants. Compared to the GLA 200 d (with a more powerful diesel engine) and the GLA 250 (with a gasoline engine), the 180 CDI offered lower running costs but sacrificed acceleration and overall driving excitement. The 180 CDI’s main competitors included the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Nissan Qashqai, all of which offered similar levels of practicality and refinement.
Legacy
The GLA 180 CDI, while not the most powerful or dynamically engaging version of the X156 GLA, remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its fuel efficiency, reliability, and relatively affordable price. The OM 607.951 engine is known for its durability and longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles that primarily see short trips, and occasional problems with the turbocharger. However, these issues are generally manageable with regular servicing and preventative maintenance. The GLA 180 CDI represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a compact luxury crossover that prioritizes economy and practicality over outright performance.
