[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he much anticipated Mercedes-Benz GLA is now physically on ground in Nigeria and ready for immediate delivery, courtesy of Weststar Associates Limited, the nation’s representative of Mercedes-Benz.
A statement from Weststar last week, said about the new GLA, which falls under the new generation compact cars (NGCC): “It is a premium sports utility vehicle from Mercedes-Benz, and its progressive, sporty character and agile handling differentiate it significantly from the competition.
“The expressive design and the high everyday practicality as well as comfort and safety features to the high Mercedes-Benz standards are strong points setting it apart from the competition.”
The statement quoted the company’s Managing Director, Mirko Plath as describing the the GLA as being serene in day-to-day motoring and having good offroad capability – interpreting the SUV segment in convincing style.
“And of course compact size cannot shrink the shine of the ‘Three-Pointed Star’ as the bold GLA fuses authentic SUV versatility with the pure passion that defines every Mercedes-Benz,” Plath stated further, adding, “Its nimble size delivers an ideal mix of flexibility, fuel-efficiency and fun. Its advanced engineering delivers genuine capability, true luxury and class-leading innovation.
“The GLA is indeed a Sport Utility Vehicle with cutting edge drive systems and dynamic design, based on the A-class hatchback, lovers can now enjoy even more comfort both with the standard suspension, and the slightly firmer setup that’s fitted to AMG Line versions”.
Interior The GLA has an interior with sporty character with meticulously finished high quality materials. It is pleasure for all senses and distraction for none of them as its freestanding color screen and intuitive central controller put a world of entertainment and information within reach.
A larger 7-inch display and Bluetooth® audio streaming are standard. Innovative multimedia options for navigation, music and online features, including an even bigger 8-inch screen, make going anywhere easier and more fun.
Power The Available GLA 180 features a four cyclinder engine with a 1.6 litre engine delivering 80kW and 260Nm of torque and is equipped with 7G-DCT.
According to Weststar statement, The GLA 45 AMG still holds the pole position in relations to driving dynamics: it accelates from 0 to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250km/h.
The statement sums up the said approach in one word: BlueEFFICIENCY, which means with the GLA, a driver burns fuel only when necessary.
In addition, every GLA is fitted standard with ECO start/stop function which temporarily shuts down the engine when the vehicle is motionless.
The GLA Turbo power is a boost for torque, and efficiency as the “power domes” in the GLA hood are a Mercedes-Benz tradition. So is the progressive power beneath. A 122hp – 360hp turbo inline-4 teams 3rd-generation Direct Injection with advanced rapid-multispark ignition. ECO Start/Stop automatically shuts off the engine at red lights to save fuel, and then restarts the instant you’re ready to move out.
The GLA boasts generosity with space, style and substance, from its winglike dash to its power liftgate and the power driver seat adjusts in14 ways. The split rear seats make way for 43.6 cubic feet of cargo. Truth is, the more you get into the GLA, and the more you’ll get out of it, as the 
Mercedes-Benz cabin is where the most rigid standards are the most rewarding to touch.
GLA comes standard with 18-inch wheels and 4-wheel independent suspension engineered to shine on any surface and for even more sparkle, there are standard chrome roof rails, as well as a choice of 19-inch wheel options and accessory racks and carriers for the roof.
“The Mercedes-Benz GLA looks sleeker than its rivals,” claimed Weststar, adding, “The GLA puts you at your ease, it is indeed a true ray of sunshine in your life, making it A perfect fit for today, for tomorrow, and for you.”
Available option at Weststar Associates is the GLA 180. Nevertheless, genuine parts and excellent vehicle servicing are offered at the company’s fully equipped workshops.
