Mercedes GLA review - Interior, design and technology

The first-generation GLA didn’t really hit the mark for being the best-looking small SUV, and was missing the crucial sense of style that customers desire - particularly from a premium brand.

The revised car offers much more kerb appeal, with the interior including quality materials and a focus on a new digital environment. Outside of the Mercedes-AMG performance models, customers now have the choice of four core trim levels.

Sport Executive versions include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a reversing camera and dual 10.25 digital screens - one controlling infotainment and the other a digital driver's display. Upgrading to AMG Line Executive adds 19-inch alloy wheels an AMG-styling kit, rear privacy glass and sports seats with upgraded upholstery.

Moving further up the price list brings Premium and Premium Plus Night Edition trim levels which include extras such as a park assist system, interior ambient lighting and a panoramic glass sunroof.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

The GLA’s infotainment system is great. The built-in sat-nav can feature augmented reality if you tick the right box, which means it will overlay directional arrows onto a live picture of the view ahead displayed on the 10.25-inch touchscreen. It’s clever tech, but you have to take your eyes off the road to benefit from it, so it has its strengths and its flaws.

Of course, if you’d prefer you can use one of the standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functions. You’ll have to plug in your phone, but there is also wireless charging if you don’t use either of these functions.

Otherwise, the graphics on the Mercedes setup are super-sharp and the touchscreen responds quickly; you can use the touch-sensitive pad on the transmission tunnel, but it’s a bit tricky at times. The menu layout removes a lot of the complexity though, because it’s so simple to navigate.