Mercedes GLA 250e plug-in hybrid test: it changes everything

The Mercedes GLA has changed a lot since its first appearance in 2014 . More than just a raised A-Class, this new GLA 250e here now has a style of its own. What if we discovered a little more in this essay?

Thanks to EQ Power technology, Mercedes has greatly accelerated the electrification of its models and has a now complete range. From compact to large sedan, including a few SUVs, there is something for everyone. All you have to do is choose between hybrid, plug-in hybrid or 100% electric.

The GLA 250e being tested today, a plug-in hybrid therefore, has a 15.6 kWh battery. This large capacity, much greater than its competitors BMW X1 or other Peugeot 3008, allows it to perform up to 63 km without a drop of gasoline according to the WLTP cycle; against usually a small fifty km. Well, in real life, we will be more around 40/45 km. A little more with all the right conditions combined (20 ° outside, no air conditioning, a good dosage of the pedal,…). But it is not totally made to run only on this energy. If your work is relatively close to your home, and luckily you have charging stations, this will be ideal for saving money on a daily basis. Otherwise, it will still be a good ally to not drink too much Unleaded. Depending on the driving mode selected, the desired recovery and the charge level, it is easy to obtain a consumption of between 3 and 5 liters per 100 km. Rather not bad when you know that the non-hybrid version of 224 hp is more than 8l / 100. Unfortunately, the volume of the tank, only 35 liters, requires too frequent pump runs ...

While the GLA 200 starts at € 41,799, it will cost at least € 49,099 to acquire the 250th version with a Progressive Line finish. The AMG Line, like our model, goes to € 50,599. And even more than € 59,000 once you have reached the end of the configurator; by having, for example, opted for a painting at € 800, the head-up display at € 1,200, a premium pack at € 3,300 or a final assistance package at € 1,800. No ecological penalty, no bonus to be expected.

After all this boring information, it is especially the feeling behind the wheel that interests us. Once the battery is full - count 1h30 / 2h in type 2 on a 7.4 kWh fast charging station - it's time to hit the road. From the first moments, we appreciate the start and the first meters in silence. However, I quickly noticed its biggest black point, the sound of the 4 cylinders. When it is triggered, there is a glaring lack of soundproofing from the engine block, the few moments of frank acceleration are really unpleasant for the ears ...

After this little quack, this GLA equipped with a thermal block of 160 hp / 250 Nm and an electric motor of 102 hp / 300 Nm, will prove to be an excellent steed. The cumulative power of 218 hp and its large torque of 450 Nm allow you to be at ease in any situation. Admittedly, this power sometimes has difficulty passing to the ground, but once the grip is hooked, it gets in the stomach, especially with the load. And everything that is going beyond or inserting is done without worry. You guessed it, we can't really talk about driving pleasure; its high weight of 1775 kg deprives it of real dynamism, but it remains pleasant to handle. Especially since the incredible precision of the steering is still there, and that, what a step! We manage to place the machine to the millimeter, knowing exactly what is happening under our wheels.

In terms of comfort, it will not be THE benchmark of the range, but it still holds up very well. In fact, I didn't expect to say that of a Mercedes, I found her a little too suspended, unlike her girlfriends. At the manufacturer, I have constantly had the habit of trying a car fitted with piloted suspensions, and without them the behavior lacks lightness. The balance of dynamism / comfort is not always well found, and this plays on the general approval. In other words, I often felt too tossed about in the cabin, when you just wish it absorbed irregularities more distinctly. Well, it's not fancy, and the seats with an exceptional seat, avoid any back pain. Then this is even more reinforced by the softness of the 8G-DCT auto gearbox,

Otherwise, to get acquainted, here are some styling details. Appeared at the very end of 2019, this Mercedes GLA offers a very different design from its predecessor, all in roundness. While it has shrunk slightly in length (- 14 mm), it has on the contrary clearly taken in height (+ 11 cm), not to mention the additional small cm of ground clearance. The reason is simple: finally assume its vocation as an SUV. In my humble opinion, some perspectives are not the most elegant ... It is especially the front face that impresses, and you really feel the quality work on the materials, the paint or the light signature. For those who are more picky, this plug-in hybrid version is identical to the thermal ones, only the logos or of course the two hatches will put you in tune with its engine.

By taking a seat inside, you will be perfectly immersed in the Mercedes universe of recent years. We obviously find the two large slabs and the beautiful steering wheel. It is rather on the passenger side that we can be disappointed, observing a design that is not necessarily sought after. It is also a pity, at this price level, to opt for so much hard plastic on certain trim. Well, it's not so ugly and the quality of finish is still worthy of the firm, we forgive him. Then at nightfall, some will find it kitsch but I love it, the ambient lighting nicely illuminates the interior. Like this gadget, this little Merco is especially full of technologies to seduce customers. We thus find an augmented reality GPS,

Finally, the space on board is not bad at all. At the back, two adults can easily get in there, although it will not be necessary to have too long legs. Regarding the central square, it is less glorious. I have the impression of repeating myself test after test, but of course, it is not really to consider: too narrow, hard seat and imposing transmission tunnel. Luggage must fit in a trunk volume of 385 liters. That's 50 liters less than a thermal GLA.  

Rather good overall results for this new Mercedes GLA 250e plug-in hybrid. Without being the best, it retains the driving qualities of the brand and offers the advantage of being able to run entirely electric. His temperament and versatility allow him to attract a wide variety of customers. Just remember that to get the most out of it, you need to be sure you're using it right. And above all, get into the habit of always recharging at night or at work.

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e technical sheet:
Cumulative power: 218 hp
Cumulative torque: 450 Nm
0 to 100 km / h: 7.1 seconds
Maximum speed: 220 km / h (140 km / h fully electric)
Empty weight: 1775 kg
Length: 4410 mm
Width: 1830 mm
Height: 1610 mm
Wheelbase: 2730 mm
Trunk: 385 Liters
Fiscal power: 8 HP
Prices: from € 49,099 (GLA from € 41,799)