The 35 nameplate is not a novelty for Mercedes-Benz’s lineup of compact cars. The A-Class wears it, as does the CLA, so it’s only natural for the GLA to receive the same treatment. In the GLA 35, the AMG-boosted inline-four unit mates to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox and all-wheel drive, for a 0-60 mph sprint completed in five seconds flat. But there’s more to the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 than quickness off the line.

You’ll know you’re looking at the new Merc-AMG GLA 35 from the Panamericana-style front grille. But there are other clues to the car’s spirited nature, such as the silver-chrome trim elements on the outer air inlets, the 19-inch twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, and the more aggressive bumpers in the front and rear. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a slightly tweaked cabin compared to the run-of-the-mill GLA. AMG took its time to add the MB-Tex/Dinamica microfiber seat upholstery with contrasting red stitching that go hand in hand with the red seat belts. There are also carbon fiber-like inserts spread across the dashboard, while the digital instrument cluster was tweaked with AMG-specific displays (Classic, Sport, and Supersport). Then there’s the AMG-styled steering wheel with its 12 o’clock mark, flat bottom, and galvanized gearshift paddles.

Under the hood of the new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 sits a souped-up 2.0-liter, inline-four powerplant slapped with a twin-scroll turbo. The unit cranks out 302 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque between 3,000 rpm and 4,000 rpm, which in turn reach all fours through the AMG Speedshift DCT 8G dual-clutch gearbox and the AMG Performance 4Matic variable all-wheel-drive setup. In this configuration, the 0-60 miles per hour sprint takes precisely five seconds, while top speed is electronically limited and comes in at 155 miles per hour.

Depending on what sort of performance the driver is looking to squeeze out of the new Mercedes-AMG GLA 35, he or she can fiddle with the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs. They are, as follows:

-* Slippery - best for low-grip, icy surfaces, where the car employs smooth gearshifts and a flat torque curve

-* Comfort - the default mode, balanced between fuel efficiency and soft settings for the suspension and steering

-* Sport/Sport+ - sportier calibration of the engine, quicker response from the transmission

-* Individual - your chance to have fun with a range of personalized parameters that suit your preferences and needs

Red 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4MATIC driving
Mercedes