GLA35 AMG is a Compact Crossover with Crushing Performance

A thoroughbred turbocharged engine and Mercedes-Benz's 4Matic system make for a very accomplished performance crossover.

By Lance Branquinho - May 20, 2020

The best blend of style and performance

Although it is not the fastest GLA, there is a case to be made for the 35 AMG variant of Mercedes-Benz's compact crossover. With its slightly more subtle styling, it delivers a healthy dose of dynamic driving appeal, without the visual drama. And for customers who want the driver prowess without too many trick styling bits, this could very well be the best GLA. 

Small differences to other GLAs

Viewed from the rear, the 35 AMG version doesn't look wildly different from other GLA models. And that is the point. Mercedes-Benz market it as a bridge model between the regular GLAs and AMG's hugely potent 45-series version, powered by the world's most energy-dense 2-liter engine. With chromed exhaust tips and a small diffuser at the rear being the only real distinguishing features of the GLA 35 AMG. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

Model specific wheel options

Mercedes-Benz has supplied a 16-spoke wheel design for the GLA 35 AMG. Customers will also have the option on a ten-spoke design should they want variety. Both these wheels are of a lighter color finish than those designs offered on the beefier GLA 45 AMG. They also feature a relatively easy to clean design, which should make keeping them looking shiny and resplendent quite effortless. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

Clear and visible information all of the time

The GLA 35 AMG has a digital instrument binnacle which can offer a variety of display with a myriad of status updates. Drivers can choose which information is most important to them, and then select the appropriate display. The high-definition screen is also designed to retain strong contrast, even when direct sunlight falls upon it. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

Practical stowage space

The GLA 35 AMG might have a strong dynamic driving appeal, but it remains a crossover, and luggage space is important. Mercedes-Benz has engineered the new GLA interior to be very adaptable. The rear seat has a 40:20:40-split-folding function. With the rear seats in place, you can still move them 5.5-inches forward, to increase the cargo volume area, whilst transporting a full tally of passengers. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

Boosted 2-liter four

Powering the AMG GLA 35 is a very thoroughly engineered 2-liter four-cylinder engine. With expertly calibrated turbocharging, this engine is good for 302hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are very impressive for a small capacity engine of only 2-liters and AMG's ensured excellent throttle responses, thanks to exhaustively tested control software for both the engine and transmission. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

Fast and safe on any surface

The GLA 35 splits its power to all four wheels, using Mercedes-Benz's 4Matic system. With tricks electronics and appropriate sensors, this 4Matic drive system enables excellent traction on snowy surfaces, without sacrificing driving dynamics in the dry, on challenging roads. With its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission working in combination with the 4Matic system, Mercedes-Benz claims the GLA 35 will be good for 0-60mph in only five seconds, before powering to a top speed of 155mph. 

>>Join the conversation about the AMG GLA35 right here in MBWorld.org

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