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I have the C63 W204 and the GLA45 X156.
Also, I come to the GLA from a Subaru WRX Sti Spec C. That's what got me into the GLA.
The GLA is nicely advanced as far as the turn-in.
I could never get my Subaru to turn in like this and I think in the GLA it's a map on the stability control that assists the steering, by lightly tapping the brakes on the inner front wheel during a turn. I also tried a brand new Sti at the time I bought the GLA and it still had nowhere near as much turn in.
But the new Sti had been trying to catch up to the handling of their arch-enemy, the Mitsubishi EVO. So at this time, it was the other part of the turn where the Sti excelled, even at low speed, the turn-in follow-up.
The Sti rear feels like it's turning WITH the front, the whole car teleports together into the next lane. It's not the front working briskly and sharply, then the rear coming around the turn with no fuss.
Even so, the GLA inspires more confidence than the Sti at darting through the traffic.
As compared with the C63, the gas mileage will be noticeably better but you'll stop to refuel just as much, or maybe more often.
If you rotate the front wheels with the rear, in my case twice a year, it won't be too hard on the front tires. Also, I think that in one of the modes the AWD cuts in more aggressively, so that you're utilizing the rear traction and tires more often.
The C63 feels trustworthy in a track environment, where you can plan your next turn, etc. I don't think it likes traffic surprises, people cutting you off, etc.
this is replacing a Suzuki Jimny as a daily driver...I was kidding with the dealer here saying that I hoped it was worthy successor (obviously it will be way more than that)!
While it does sort of replace a Suzuki Jimny in terms of daily driving, it is clearly in another league as a fun commuter and spares me driving my low clearance GTC and GT500 in a city that has potholes and díps in the road that swallow low slung front lips for breakfast. I like the stealth factor too...it blends into a background of Hyundai Tucsons and Kia Sonnets. Only those who know what this is (I ordered it without the large wing) will recognize it.
Last edited by sjp3003; Jul 23, 2023 at 02:44 PM.
Reason: Update
I just bought a 2018 GLA45, this may sound crazy but it replaces my Evora GT for partly daily and track/autocross. I really like how the GLA drives, just not as serious as the Lotus or the 911 I had before. The interior/sound system/ general quality is actually surprising for an "entry" level Merc (I have an s550 for travel and had My new toy!
a 2015 SL63 before). Really love the car in storm trooper colors!
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.
