THE boys at Benz took their time to launch an assault on the profitable compact SUV scene.

But the stylish-looking GLA certainly created an impression when it lined up against proven performers from the likes of arch rivals Audi and BMW.

Built on the same platform as the latest A-Class, the GLA is longer, wider and taller than the hatchback - and really looks the business to boot.

Compact may be the category but there's nothing small about this car, something sure to win over more fans.

If they don't mind the almost clinical feel of the cabin - the trim surfaces are galvanised in silver-shadow for a metallic finish with "cool-touch" effect - then they are in for a treat.

The Merc's flexible interior boasts rear seat backrests that not only fold down completely, but are also adjustable for angle if required.

And the luggage compartment can be easily loaded thanks to the low sill and wide tailgate, which opens automatically as an option.

That boot area adds up to 480 litres - ample for most families' paraphernalia - and if that's not sufficient, well there's extra room under the boot floor for small items.

Beneath the bonnet the choice of 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines range from the 156bhp in the GLA 200 model to 211bhp in the GLA 250 while diesels include the 2.2-litre GLA 200 CDI with 136bhp and a 220 CDI, which produces 170bhp.

All the powerplants feature ECO start/stop as standard and are combined with a six-speed manual gearbox or with the company's 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.

The tested 220 CDI AMG model comes with a 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system, capable of varying the degree of power to front and rear axles and equipped with a switchable hill decent system.

It uses a seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox with the shift lever on the column, which takes some getting used to - you think you're turning on the wipers when instead you're changing gear.

There's plenty of power on tap though, with impressive mid-range flexibility and when you need an extra boost the kickdown is instant giving immediate response even at high speed.

A dashboard switch enables you to change from eco mode to sport mode or manual and GLA's handling is positive and precise - the all-wheel drive providing extra grip when you need it.

3 yrs/unlimited miles