Finally, the new Mercedes-Benz GLA has berthed in the Nigerian auto market, after leaving a mark in the European auto market. Business & Economywatch magazine, a sister publication of News Express, had in its April/May 2015 edition reported the arrival of the German auto sports utility vehicle.

The GLA-Class is the fourth of a total of five new compact models from Mercedes-Benz. It is progressive in design, serene in day-to-day motoring and has good off-road capability, thereby interpreting the SUV segment in convincing style.

A statement from Weststar Associates Ltd, Authorised General Distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicle in Nigeria noted that the German auto rounds off the extensive SUV portfolio.

Lovers of the distinguished brand will appreciate the rear seat backrests that can, not only be folded down completely, but are also adjustable for angles if required. Due to the low loading sill and the wide tailgate which opens and closes automatically as an option, making the interior flexible and variable, the large luggage compartment (421 - 1235 litres) is well laid-out and can be loaded without difficulty.

A number of measures have also been taken to reduce wind noise in the GLA. These include a multi-level door sealing concept, additional sealing of the joint between the tailgate and the roof and side seals on the tailgate. Particularly rigid window frames prevent the airflow from pulling on the doors at higher speeds, and reduce vibrations. External noise has also been minimized by the low A-pillar step mentioned above and by exterior mirrors connected to the body by a stem.

The interior has a particularly high feel of quality that is achieved by the contours, and the choice and combinations of high-grade materials. The dashboard consists of an upper and lower section, allowing surface structures that are different in look and feel. Matt and glossy 3D geometries (graining) create an attractive light effect. The three-dimensional trim section of innovative membrane, aluminium, adds a modern touch to the interior. The matt satin finish of the wood trim further underscores the modern character and makes the surfaces particularly pleasant to the touch.

The GLA is optionally available with the new generation of 4MATIC all-wheel drive featuring fully variable torque distribution. This all-wheel drive system excels with high traction reserves and outstanding agility, combined with superlative driving safety and energy efficiency. The components of the new 4MATIC include the power take-off to the rear axle, which is integrated into the 7G-DCT automated dual clutch transmission, and the rear-axle gear unit with integrated, hydraulically actuated multi-disc clutch. Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight than is available from the competition and high efficiency.

Models with 4MATIC are equipped with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and an off-road transmission mode as standard. DSR is activated by a control button in the centre console, and assists the driver on demanding downhill stretches by maintaining a slow, manually selected vehicle speed within the physical limits when negotiating downhill gradients. This is done with the help of the engine and transmission control systems, and by specific braking intervention.

Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the GLA and reduce the driver's workload. Standard-fit features for the SUV include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to avoid collisions from a speed as low as 7 km/h.

As an SUV, the new GLA combines the key design values of Progression and Tradition, and is the SUV of the future. It is an all-rounder with hallmark Mercedes-Benz SUV genes, but more youthful, sculptural and full of subtle drama.

•Photo shows the interior of Benz GLA 5.

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