The Mercedes-Benz GLA 220d 4MATIC, produced from July 2015 to 2017, represents a compelling entry point into the compact luxury SUV segment. Part of the X156 GLA generation, this variant combined a diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance of efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GLA lineup, it sat between the lower-powered GLA 200d and the higher-performance GLA 250 models. The GLA, as a whole, was Mercedes-Benz’s attempt to capture a younger demographic with a more accessible and sporty SUV, leveraging the robust mechanicals of the A-Class and B-Class platforms (specifically the MFA platform).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLA |
| Generation | GLA (X156) |
| Type (Engine) | GLA 220d (177 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | July, 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3-4.4 l/100 km (54.7 – 53.5 US mpg, 65.7 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.3 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.8-5 l/100 km (49 – 47 US mpg, 58.9 – 56.5 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 127-130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 116.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 3600-3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1400-3000 rpm (258.15 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 | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 421 l (14.87 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 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 | 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) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.84 m (38.85 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.8° |
| Departure angle | 21.5° |
| Climb angle | 33° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLA 220d 4MATIC utilized the OM651.930 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its durability and fuel efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 177 horsepower at 3600-3800 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-3000 rpm. The engine employed a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimized combustion. The valvetrain was a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s 16.2:1 compression ratio was typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) was a key component, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission allowed for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The GLA 220d 4MATIC provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 177 hp engine and 7-speed transmission offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.3 seconds. The dual-clutch transmission contributed to brisk shifts, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the more powerful GLA 250, the 220d offered less outright acceleration, but its superior fuel economy and lower-end torque made it a more practical choice for many drivers. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, although some drivers noted occasional hesitation at lower speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLA 220d 4MATIC typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and locks, and an infotainment system with a central display screen. Upholstery was generally a combination of fabric and synthetic leather (Artico). Optional extras included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, parking assist, and various driver assistance systems like collision prevention assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The GLA 220d 4MATIC featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESP) were standard safety features. The tires were typically sized 215/60 R17, 215/55 R18, 235/50 R18, or 235/45 R19, depending on the chosen wheel size.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLA 220d 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior space. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when pushed hard, and the interior materials, while well-assembled, weren’t as luxurious as those found in some competing models. Compared to other trims in the GLA lineup, the 220d offered a compelling value proposition for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and all-weather capability. It was a popular choice in Europe, where diesel engines were more prevalent, and also gained traction in North America as a more affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz SUV range.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the OM651.930 found in the GLA 220d, has a reputation for being robust and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage. The 7G-DCT transmission, while generally reliable, can be susceptible to issues if not serviced according to Mercedes-Benz’s recommendations. In the used car market, the GLA 220d 4MATIC remains a popular choice, offering a blend of luxury, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Its relatively simple diesel powertrain and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips.
