From a bold radiator grille to a muscular vehicle shoulder to the latest MBUX generation intuitive software, the GLA 200 FL is worth a closer look. According to Mercedez-Benz Malaysia CEO, Amanda Zhang, the vehicle will be entirely assembled in Pekan, Pahang.
Exterior Upgrades
The GLA 200 FL features a new radiator grille with the central Mercedes-Benz star, single louvre, and accents in black. The redesigned front bumper with visual underride protection points to the new GLA’s off road genes. Meanwhile, the rear bumper now comes with a diffuser.
Similar to earlier models, the LED headlamps are equipped with high beam assist. The headlamps illuminate the road with a wide beam and pleasant warm-white light much more precisely and generously.
Mercedes-Benz is expanding the range of options with the new Spectral Blue metallic paint finish. The new GLA stands on 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimized, painted in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish.
Interior Upgrades
Comparing the new GLA 200 FL with its earlier predecessor reveals that there have not been significant changes made to its interior. The biggest difference is the introduction of multifunction touch control panel steering wheels or a central display upholstered in leather. The three-pointed star pattern has also been added for a more luxurious feel.
Regardless, the new facelift features some welcome upgrades while keeping many of the interior finishes that customers enjoyed. Main interior equipments include comfort seats upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather in black, powered hands-free tailgate and 64-color ambient lighting with numerous individualization options.
The latest MBUX software supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity which can be conveniently operated via the touchscreen on the steering wheels. There is a total of 5 fast-charging USB-C ports which are now all illuminated.
This software upgrade improves the vehicle’s overall safety assistance such as the Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, and Active Brake Assist to help mitigate accidents and collisions.
For added ease of mind, the new GLA comes with GUARD 360° Vehicle protection offering all-round monitoring of the vehicle’s surroundings – for example with the anti-theft alarm system and tow-away protection with visual and audible warning. Included with the new GLA is TIREFIT and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Engine
The new GLA is powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with the 7G-DCT automatic transmission. It can achieve 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.9 seconds thanks to 120 kW (163 hp) and a maximum torque of 250 Nm.
It is available for purchase at Mercedes-Benz stores and retail showrooms with the price of RM 258,888 inclusive of 10% Sales Tax (for Peninsular Malaysia).
All images courtesy of Mercedez-Benz.