Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e plug-in hybrid FWD automatic

Our verdict

Here, Green NCAP tested the 2024 model of the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e PHEV. The plug-in hybrid system is equipped with a 120 kW petrol engine and a 80 kW electric motor, the combined 160 kW power being transmitted through an 8-gear automatic transmission. This GLA is a compact SUV targeting an audience looking for high everyday comfort, luxury and functionality. With 11.7 kWh fully charged into the battery, Green NCAP measured a pure electric range of 51 km in the standard mixed On-Road Drive and almost 67 km in the Light Load On-Road test. With such a driving range, most everyday trips can be covered in electric mode. In the dynamic Heavy Load Test with sport vehicle settings, the target of the electric system is to support the combustion machine with quick power rather than to provide electric range.
The car scored well for Clean Air and proved that it can control its pollutants under various conditions. The fuel consumption in combustion mode is not low but as expected for this type of vehicle, and can be compensated by the good efficiency of the electric driving mode. Green NCAP's PHEV test score is a combination of weighted results in electric and combustion mode, with the discriminator being the equivalent all electric range (EAER) as measured by the programme (Green NCAP's test deviates from the type approval test due to testing with active air-conditioning). The EAER value of 53.5 km results in electric mode contribution of 43%, whereas the combustion mode accounts for 57% of the score. A bigger high-voltage battery and/or reduced consumption values can increase the EAER value and by that the contribution of the cleaner and more energy efficient electric mode.
In total, the plug-in hybrid Mercedes GLA250e obtained a weighted Average Score of 57% and 3 Green Stars.