Since it was introduced into the local market, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has quickly made its way into the local buyers’ hearts. Just moments ago, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has committed to the nameplate’s continued success by introducing the new GLA; in three variants of GLA 200 Urban Line, GLA 250 4Matic AMG Line and Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4Matic.

For the outside, among the changes received are for the bumpers, alloys plus a new ‘canyon beige’ colour. Another new item is the off-road suspension (not for the GLA 45 4Matic though), which makes the GLA looking more convincing as an SUV.

Inside, you can spot new seat covers and trim parts in addition to chromed control panels. Others are more subtle, including new dials with red needles plus highlights for some control switches.

The GLA 45 4Matic receives a different set of changes which include Artico leather-covered dashboard with contrast topstitching and high-glass surface trim bearing the letters AMG. For some reason the dials in the speedometer are now in 30kph variance.

All the variants are fitted with a 4-cylinder engine, the GLA 250 4Matic and GLA 45 4Matic sharing the same 2-litre unit. Of course, the outputs are vastly different with the AMG pumping out 381hp at 6,000rpm and 475Nm of torque while the GLA 250 producing 211hp and 350Nm. Each is claimed to consume fuel at a rate of 7.4L/100 and 6.6-6.5L/100km respectively. The AMG also goes from standstill to 100kph in just 4.4 seconds (250kph Vmax) while the GLA 250 does the same in 6.6 seconds and 230kph.

The GLA 200, meanwhile, is powered by a 1.6-litre engine that generates 156hp and 250Nm. It goes from 0-100kph in 8.1 seconds and consumes between 5.8 to 5.6 litres/100kph.

Every variant still has plenty of similarities too, such as the Dynamic Select function which enable the driver to select between Comfort, Sport, Eco, and Individual. These changes the attitude of the engine, transmission and suspension correspondingly. The GLA 250 also gets an extra mode of ‘Off-road’.

The price for the GLA and GLA 250 4Matic are RM239,888 and RM269,888 respectively. The GLA 45 4Matic is RM408,888.