Mercedes-Benz GLA Night Edition gives an already impressive SUV some special touches
The subcompact luxury crossover segment is brutally competitive, and I’ve always felt that simply being ‘premium’ isn’t enough anymore. Everyone is fighting for the same buyer, which is why manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to make their cars stand out, sometimes through add-ons while other times by means of clever positioning.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA Night Edition is made to stand out in a segment where looking like every other car means getting ignored by buyers.
For starters, the GLA Night Edition is based on the AMG-Line configuration and wears an exclusive Alpine Grey finish. Other exclusive features include bespoke AMG rims and the Night Package, which adds gloss-black accents on the outside mirrors, window surrounds and roof rails to give it that dark treatment that most South Africans love. This is further complemented by standard LED head- and taillights and a sporty rear diffuser.
Inside, the GLA sticks to its familiar design but elevates it with impressive build quality, a 10.25-inch central display, a Nappa leather steering wheel, and a redesigned centre console. The GLA’s cabin has always felt premium, thoughtfully laid out, and surprisingly spacious for a subcompact crossover, making it both comfortable and practical for daily use.
As standard, the GLA Night Edition comes fitted with the Parking Package with reversing camera, lumbar support seats and the Mirror Package.
Under the bonnet is a 1.3-litre 3-cyl turbocharged petrol engine with 120kW and 270Nm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. On paper, it’s a small engine, but in practice, we’ve found it smooth, responsive, and surprisingly well-matched to the GLA’s character.
Priced at R972,387, the Night Edition costs a significant R61,000 more than the GLA 200 AMG Line it’s based on. Looking at what it comes with, the price actually feels justified, especially since you’ll be owning something a little more special.
