IT seems Mercedes may have been slow off the mark in the world of compact SUVs and crossovers.

While the M-Class has always been a favourite with the larger SUV buyers, the German giant seems to have lost ground to competitors like Audi, BMW and Land Rover.

The firm has set about correcting that with its stylish and potent GLA. It looks good and with the two litre, 211bhp petrol engine in this model, is very quick off the mark.

It is without doubt a classy all-round, versatile and capable vehicle with a luxury edge. While Mercedes class it as a compact SUV, there are definite comparisons the latest A-Class.

In typical Mercedes style, vehicles carrying the three-pointed star offer premium end quality and kudos and the GLA is no different, despite its more rugged looks.

There are numerous petrol and diesel variants and with a starting price of just under £26,000, its not cheap. All models have decent levels of standard equipment and stand comparison with their direct rivals.

Slightly rugged it may be but it has more than a dash of chic, yet aerodynamic styling. It sits high off the ground and features attractive 18-inch alloy wheels.

It shares many of the sleek features of the saloons, but adds body integrated roof rails, double louvred grille with the prominent three-pointed star, chrome trimmed headlights and huge air scoops.

To the rear, there are partial LED tail lights and a high-level brake lights and twin exhausts with a chrome mud shield in between.

The GLA is available in two or for wheel drive with the new-generation permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC. 

And while this car is clearly capable off-road, its on road manners are impeccable, offering a firm, but comfortable ride and excellent handling characteristics with responsive steering.

It feels taught and grippy on corners where the on the demand four wheel drive and stability stability keeps everthing under control. 

A high level of soundproofing and a rigid bodyframe means the car is both quiet and stable while wind and road noise are all but absent, with the engine barely a whisper except under hard acceleration.

Inside, all trim surfaces feature hi-quality soft touch finish and chrome detailing.

The dashboard consists of an upper and lower section fwith large dials, 5.8 inch infotainment system and the three-spoke steering wheel which has 12 function keys. I still can't get used to the indicator and wipers being on the same left stalk with gear selector on the right.

I suppose you get used to it driving the vehicle over a period of time, but it can be a problem selecting neutral when wishing to indicate right. On the other hand, it does free up the space where the gearshift would have been for.

The rest of the interior is light and airy and the leather-style, electrically adjustable seats are firm and supportive. Head and legroom is good for front occupants, but inevitably in a car of this design, rear space is compromised, although it's hardly uncomfortable.

The boot space is adequte if not huge with 481 litres, but fold down the rear seats and it offers 1,235 litres, a low loading sill and the self-closing boot lid on this model is also a boon. Other bins, pockets and bottle holders are dotted around te car.

There are various engines options, but the two-litre petrol unit powering this model is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox which produces virtually seamless changes.

There is the option of using the paddles behind the steering wheel for a more engaging drive.

This powerful combination means the car can hit 60mph from a standing start in just 7.1 seconds, real hot hatch-plus performance.

Performance, but economy and efficiency as well. With the stop/start system, claimed economy figures of 42.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 154g/km means it won't cost an arm and a leg to run.

A new kid on the block, but food for thought for the opposition.