Amidst the glitz and glam at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC) was the launch of the locally-assembled (CKD Pekan) 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA.

As expected, prices of the BMW X1 competitor are lower than previous, with SST-free prices (valid until 30-June 2022) ranging from RM 232,379 to RM 266,164 (lower than the previous CBU range's RM 244,200 and RM 285,337).

After 30-June 2022 however, SST-inclusive prices for the GLA 200 and GLA 250 will be RM 242,888 and RM 278,888 respectively.

Also read: Budget 2022: MoF confirms extension of SST exemption/discount until June 2022

Both variants are backed by a four-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

What under the GLA's metal?

Bridging both together is the shared Modular Front Architecture-II (MFA-II) platform.

In the GLA 200, there's a turbocharged, Renault-sourced (M282) 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and total output is 163 PS and 250 Nm.

As for the pricier GLA 250, that gets a turbocharged 2.0-litre mill (M260) with 224 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Power's sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.

On the ride and handling front, both variants of the GLA get multi-link rear suspension with passive dampers.

What am I getting for the money?

It may be Mercedes-Benz's shortest SUV (it's only 4,410 mm long), but there's nothing short about its spec sheet.

The GLA 200 gets Progressive Line trimmings while it's an AMG Line set for the GLA 250, which brings with it 19-inch wheels and sportier front and rear bumpers, along with a lower ride height than its cheaper stablemate.

Standard features across the GLA variants are:

• LED High Performance headlamps
• 4-way lumbar support
• Automatic climate control
• Automatic wipers
• Easy-Pack automatic tailgate
• Mercedes me connect
• 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats
• MBUX infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support

Where safety is concerned, both variants of the GLA are equipped with the following:

• 7 airbags
• Active brake assist
• Active parking assist
• Cruise control
• Pre-Safe system
• Tyre pressure monitoring system

However, the GLA 250 gains an additional blind-spot assist which also warns drivers of incoming objects in their blind-spot even when the car is stopped.

The same event also saw the launch of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan, which is now also assembled-in-Malaysia.

Also read: Priced from RM 220k, 2021 CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan (V177) is launched in Malaysia