The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class X156 is smart, stylish, and easy to live with. It’s a compact SUV that fits perfectly into city life. Not too big. Not too flashy. Just right.
When it launched, it gave people a fresh way to drive a luxury car. You got the Mercedes badge, modern tech, and a smooth ride—all in one neat package.
This guide breaks down what made the Mercedes GLA X156 special. From clever parking tools like Parktronic to its comfy seats and solid handling. If you’re curious about this small SUV with big charm, you’re in the right place.
Overview Of The Mercedes GLA X156
Imagine driving through a tight Dhaka alley or squeezing into a narrow city parking space with no stress. That’s the kind of magic Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class X156 brings—especially with its Parktronic system. This compact luxury crossover SUV was born to tackle city chaos with grace.
The X156 generation of the GLA-Class was produced from 2014 to 2019. It was Mercedes-Benz’s first attempt at merging the elegance of a sedan with the go-anywhere spirit of an SUV, packed into a city-friendly body. Think of it as a little sibling to the GLC, but with more agility and less bulk. It also introduced many drivers to the Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle ecosystem via mild-hybrid options in later years.
Production Years And General Description
The GLA-Class X156 rolled off the lines between 2014 and 2019. Built under the umbrella of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, it quickly gained traction in urban markets. What made it stand out was its high seating position, sleek curves, and accessible luxury—it wasn’t too big, wasn’t too expensive, and still felt undeniably premium.
This model represented Mercedes’ entry into the compact crossover world, one traditionally dominated by brands like BMW (with their X1) or Audi (with the Q3). Yet, the GLA carved out its own space with smart tech like Parktronic and the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), which made driving feel like an intuitive conversation.
Position In The Compact Luxury Crossover Segment
The GLA X156 found its sweet spot in the compact luxury crossover market. It wasn’t trying to be the biggest, fastest, or flashiest. Instead, it focused on giving drivers what they truly wanted—comfort, safety, and that signature Mercedes-Benz elegance.
Against competitors like the BMW iX1 or the Tesla Model Y, the GLA held its ground with charm. While the others might have boasted wild electric acceleration or ultra-minimalist interiors, the GLA offered balance—a vehicle for people who want everyday usability wrapped in a star-studded package.
Target Market And Consumer Demographics
So, who drove the GLA X156? Young professionals, urban couples, and small families mostly. Think first-time Mercedes-Benz owners who wanted something refined but manageable. Many came from brands like Mazda or Volkswagen and were looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
In Bangladesh and other developing markets, the pre-owned specials on the GLA made it even more appealing. With new vehicle specials and finance specials regularly offered by local dealers, the GLA was suddenly within reach.
Key Features And Specifications
Let’s talk goodies. Parktronic with Active Park Assist stood out. It scanned for suitable parking spots and steered the car into place while you controlled the brake. No more fear of parallel parking in front of a crowd.
Add to that the Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and a rear-view camera, and you’ve got a safety-first SUV. Many units also featured Apple CarPlay, a panoramic sunroof, and luxury trim accents.
Performance Highlights
The X156 wasn’t just about comfort—it could move too. With a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines (including the GLA 200 and GLA 250), you got responsive performance and decent fuel efficiency.
Some trims even offered AMG Line styling and suspension tweaks for added flair. Torque delivery was smooth, and the overall ride was nimble. On paper, it wasn’t a rocket, but behind the wheel, it felt just right.
Dimensions And Drivetrain
The GLA measured about 4.4 meters long and just under 1.8 meters wide. Compact enough for city roads, but roomy enough inside to stretch your legs.
It offered both front-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive options. The 4MATIC versions handled rain, potholes, and the occasional off-road track with genuine confidence.
Safety And Technology Features
This is where the GLA X156 really flexed. Mercedes-Benz packed it with Active Brake Assist, the aforementioned Parktronic system, and optional DISTRONIC cruise control. These features worked seamlessly thanks to artificial intelligence woven into the MBUX platform.
Other key safety tech included:
- Collision Prevention Assist Plus
- Attention Assist
- 7 airbags
These systems earned the GLA top safety ratings globally and made it a dependable choice for cautious buyers.
Coilover Options By BC Racing
Let’s talk tuning. If you’re the type who loves a custom feel, BC Racing coilovers were (and still are) a go-to for the X156. They allow you to adjust ride height, stiffness, and handling dynamics.
Whether you’re looking for aggressive stance or just a firmer feel on the highway, coilovers transform the GLA’s behavior without compromising daily drivability.
Overview Of BC Racing Coilover Series
BC Racing offers several coilover options for the GLA X156, notably the BR Series. It provides:
- Height adjustability
- 30 levels of damping adjustment
- Pillowball mounts for better feedback
Installation is relatively straightforward, and many dealerships or certified centers offer order parts and installation through their service centers or collision centers.
Performance Improvements With Coilovers
Swapping to BC Racing coilovers gives the GLA tighter cornering and improved road feedback. For those who felt the stock suspension was too soft or too floaty, this was the perfect mod.
You’ll notice less body roll, more traction, and a lower stance that still looks classy—not boy-racer. It enhances the vehicle’s personality while preserving that Mercedes-Benz refinement.
Environmental And Sustainability Initiatives
Mercedes-Benz doesn’t just make good cars—they’re working toward a greener future too. Even the GLA X156 was built with that in mind, setting the stage for the EQB SUV and other electric models.
360° Environmental Check
Each GLA underwent a 360° Environmental Check. This ensured every stage of the car’s life—from materials to manufacturing—met strict eco standards. Mercedes focused on:
- Using recycled materials
- Minimizing CO2 emissions
- Ensuring fuel-efficient engines
Certifications And Eco-Friendly Practices
Mercedes-Benz holds ISO 14001 environmental certifications. That’s not just paperwork—it’s a promise. The brand commits to cleaner production, efficient logistics, and reducing environmental damage.
This long-term thinking helped the brand transition smoothly into their electric car lineup.
Evaluating The GLA-Class X156’s Legacy
Looking back, the GLA X156 was more than just an entry-level Mercedes. It introduced a whole generation to the Mercedes-Benz lifestyle—without overwhelming them.
Mercedes brought Parktronic, Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping to the mainstream. It also gave buyers a taste of genuine luxury, often for the same price as a top-tier Toyota or Honda.
Customer Reviews And Feedback
Most users praised the GLA for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and city-friendly dimensions. The Parktronic system was often highlighted in reviews, especially by new drivers or those navigating tight urban zones.
Criticisms? Some felt the ride was too firm on AMG Line models. Others wished for better rear visibility without relying on cameras.
Common Praise And Criticisms
Praise:
- Stylish exterior
- Great tech for the price
- Parktronic was a lifesaver
- Solid build quality
Criticisms:
- Small rear seat space for taller passengers
- Engine noise in base trims
- Premium fuel requirement for higher trims
User Images And Community Engagement
Owners loved showing off their GLA X156s online. On forums, Facebook groups, and car meetups, it’s common to find user-submitted images with aftermarket wheels, wraps, and lighting mods.
Even the Mercedes-Benz finance application portal gets shoutouts for being user-friendly when buying or leasing. The community behind the GLA is strong and supportive.
Overall Appeal In The Mercedes-Benz Lineup
While the X156 may no longer be in production, its spirit lives on in the new GLA, EQB, and other compact SUVs. It played a critical role in shaping Mercedes-Benz’s small SUV strategy, blending premium comfort with practicality.
It also made advanced safety tech like Active Brake Assist and Parktronic feel standard, not optional.
Future Prospects And Model Evolution
Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz continues to evolve with models like the EQB SUV and the all-new GLA-Class. Expect more electric intelligence, better range, improved artificial intelligence integration, and increased sustainability.
But let’s be honest—the GLA X156 will always hold a special place. It wasn’t just a vehicle. It was a gateway. A stylish, smart, compact Mercedes that made luxury feel within reach.
Conclusion
The GLA X156 left a legacy as one of the most approachable and feature-rich luxury crossovers in its time. It brought Parktronic, electric intelligence, and refined German engineering to the everyday driver.
For those seeking service specials, new inventory, or even pre-owned specials today, the X156 still holds value. Dealership information often features it as a top-certified used vehicle due to its reliability.
FAQs
- What Is The Mercedes GLA-Class X156?
It’s the first-generation GLA compact SUV, made from 2014 to 2019. It combines Mercedes-Benz luxury with city-friendly size. - What Does The Parktronic System Do?
Parktronic helps you park. It detects open spaces and assists with steering while you control the brake and gear. - Is The GLA X156 Good For City Driving?
Yes! It’s small, agile, and easy to handle in traffic and tight parking spots. - How Many People Can It Seat?
It seats up to five people comfortably, with enough room for everyday errands or road trips. - Does The GLA X156 Come In AWD?
Yes. Some models feature Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for better traction. - What Engine Options Are Available?
You’ll find turbocharged petrol and diesel options, including GLA 200 and GLA 250 variants. - Is Apple Carplay Included?
Many versions offer Apple CarPlay as standard or optional, depending on the trim. - Can I Add Coilovers To This Model?
Yes. BC Racing offers coilover kits that improve handling and give the car a sportier look. - How Does The GLA X156 Compare To A Tesla Model Y Or BMW Ix1?
It’s more compact and focused on comfort. It offers traditional luxury with smart features like Parktronic and MBUX. - Is The GLA X156 Still Worth Buying Today?
Absolutely. Many pre-owned specials offer great value, and its tech and style still hold up well