Dissecting the Design, Technology & Performance of the All-New Mercedes-Benz GLA Compact SUV

At Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa, are so excited about the new GLA-class, we thought it warranted its own blog article. Any true car lover will appreciate this model (and hopefully this article!). Our fascination with the GLA250 (and the GLA45 AMG) is that it is the perfect super modern, luxurious family vehicle.

We've broken it down for you here by design, technology and performance. 

Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa strives to be a resource of information and support for the North Bay. Let us know if you have any questions by chatting online, visiting or calling.

Mercedes-Benz 2015 GLA250 4MATIC compact SUV

DESIGN

Exterior Elegance

The most compact SUV to wear the Star earns it in a big way.

- Bold design fuses function with passion

- Nimble size delivers an ideal mix of flexibility, fuel-efficiency and fun

- Advanced engineering delivers true SUV capability with industry-leading innovations

Intelligent Interior

The cabin of a Mercedes-Benz is where the most rigid standards are the most rewarding to touch.

- Generous with space, style and substance, from its winglike dash to its power liftgate.

- Power driver seat adjusts 14 ways

- Split rear seats make way for 43.6 cubic feet of cargo

Interior of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 compact SUV

Keeping A Classic Low Profile

The GLA250 is made to carve up the corners, not to cut them.

- Comes standard with beefy 18-inch wheels and an agile 4-wheel independent suspension engineered to shine on any surface

- Standard chrome roof rail

- Choice of 19-inch wheel options, accessory racks and carriers for the roof

PERFORMANCE

Muuuuwaaahahaha (Power At Your Command)

The "power domes" on the GLA250 hood are a Mercedes-Benz tradition. So is the progressive power beneath.

All the power you could want + agility beyond belief.

- 208-hp turbo inline-4 teams 3rd-generation Direct Injection with advanced rapid-multispark ignition

- ECO Start/Stop can automatically shut off the engine at red lights to save fuel, then restarts the instant you're ready to move out

Torgue’n

A new generation of 4MATIC® all-wheel drive combines on-road agility with off-road ability.

- Lightweight and fuel-efficient, the variable-torque system monitors grip at each wheel, and instantly sends up to 50 percent of the engine's torque to the rear wheels as required

- One-touch Off-Road mode tailors numerous driving systems to the terrain

Sporty Meets Comfy

The fuel-efficiency and fun of a manual. The relaxing comfort of an automatic.

- 7-speed DCT transmission gives you both manual and automatic

- Racing-derived dual-clutch design shifts more quickly and precisely than is humanly possible

- Three driving modes (ECO, Sport and Manual) and shift paddles on the steering wheel let you take the power in your hands

OMG, it’s an AMG!

What happens when you put the most powerful 4-cylinder in production into a compact SUV? You get the GLA45 AMG…

- Class-leading 355 handcrafted horsepower and 26.1 psi of maximum turbo boost.

- Hugs the road with torque-vectoring AMG Performance 4MATIC® and 19-inch AMG® wheels

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG Performance 4MATIC...the road beckons.

TECHNOLOGY

Maximum Attractions, Minimum Distractions

With a freestanding color screen and intuitive central controller, the GLA puts a world of entertainment and information within reach.

- 5.8-inch display and Bluetooth® audio streaming are standard*

- Innovative multimedia options for navigation, music and online features, including a big 7-inch screen, make going anywhere easier and more fun**

Tech Specs

From your car, computer or smartphone, mbrace connects you and your GLA. And it does it in the ways you already connect with the world:***

Apps, remote features, emergency assist, search help & more!

- An ever-growing array of apps

- Remote vehicle features

- Search help of Google® and Yelp

- Assistance in an emergency. Standard mbrace® includes a trial subscription to the three mbrace Packages

Innovative Safety, A Mercedes-Benz Tradition

Standard Safety Innovations Include:

- Radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with autonomous braking 

- ATTENTION ASSIST® to help sense a drowsy driver

Optional Safety Bells & Whistles:

- Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assists help make highway driving easier and safer

- DISTRONIC PLUS® cruise control automatically adapts to the flow of traffic

Reduce the odds of an accident with Collision Prevention Assist Plus. The GLA-class comes standard with it!

Give us a call, chat online (MBofSantaRosa.com) or visit us with any questions about the all-new GLA-class from Mercedes-Benz!

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*Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

**While the navigation system provides directional assistance, the driver must remain focused on safe driving behavior, including paying attention to traffic and street signs. The driver should utilize the

system´s audio cues while driving and should only consult the map or visual displays once the vehicle has been stopped in a safe place. Maps do not cover all areas or all routes within an area.

*** Some services are only available on select vehicles. Your PIN is required in order to use certain services. Some services may be limited or restricted in some areas. Driver is responsible for complying with traffic and other laws. See your dealer or MBUSA.com/mbrace for details.

THE EVOLUTION OF MERCEDES-BENZ: Innovation, Safety & Luxury

10 THINGS YOU MAY NEED TO BUY A CAR

Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa, and the Smothers European group, has always put customer experience first. We know that if you receive a superb experience, it will last the life of your Mercedes, (possibly longer) which, let's face it, can be decades! And after 30 years of 5-star experiences, the repeat business, referrals and positive feedback we consistently receive are all we need to know we're doing right by you, our North Bay community.

Buying a car can be complicated, especially when you are simultaneously trading in your current vehicle. There are very few transactions in life when one is trading in a high value item while buying another high value item at the exact same time. Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa makes it our mission to extend the luxury of our vehicles throughout our sales and service professionals so that every one of our customers feels like a respected, important part of the Smothers European family.

More important than selling a car is giving a luxurious experience of buying one.

In the spirit of the 5-star experience, we thought this list of "10 Things You May Need To Buy A Car" may be something that could come in handy for you or a loved one shopping for a new car.

Bring the following, in your name:

1.  Driver's license

2.  Proof of auto insurance

3.  Financial info (bank and credit card account info to fill out credit application)

4.  Social Security number

If you are trading in a car, also bring:

5.  Your car's title or payoff information—all titleholders should plan to be present

6.  Valid current registration to confirm ownership

7.  All keys and remote(s)

Depending on your credit, you may also need the following:

8.  References (with complete contact info)

9.  Proof of employment and salary (paycheck stubs, with one less than 30 days old)

10.Proof of residence (mortgage document, lease agreement, and/or utility bill)

We hope this article helps you avoid any hiccups during your next car buying experience! Remember, the team at Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa is here to help. More than selling you a vehicle, your satisfaction in buying a vehicle from us is vital to our reputation and growth. Let us know if you have any questions before coming in for a test drive at 707-542-4810 or MBofSantaRosa.com.

Buying or Leasing A Car: What's Best For You?

We often have customers (especially those new to the car market) ask about the difference between buying a car and leasing a car. Both are viable options, depending on your lifestyle. Things to consider in this decision are:

1. How many miles you drive per year (10,000+ usually = buying may be better)
2. Monthly payment size (lease = smaller payments unless loan is 5+ years)
3. Future plans (moving away, planning a family, prefer newer model car, etc.)

Anyone is always welcome to come into our Corby Avenue showroom and talk with our knowledgeable staff in further detail about this. In the meantime, we've pulled this handy comparison checklist from ConsumerReports.org to help you sort through some of the basic differences.

                                           

                                                      BUY                                                   LEASE

Both are viable options, it all depends on lifestyle and future plans.

If you have further questions, give us a call at 707-542-4810 or visit us online at MBofSantaRosa.com.

3 Benefits of Buying Your Car Locally

Buying locally supports more than local owners!

As you may have guessed from our giant round window cling visible from 101, Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa (and the entire Smothers European Auto Group) is a proud member of Go Local Sonoma County.  After decades of serving Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino counties, Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa was the first auto dealer to meet Go Local membership requirements. Our neighbors in Napa and Mendocino are without Mercedes-Benz representation so we always welcome them as family. That’s how we treat our employees, as well as our customers. Aretha had it right—R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

We lose sales to other dealerships, that’s natural in the auto industry. It’s when sales are lost to a dealer in another county that makes us wonder if people truly understand why it’s so important to shop locally—especially for bigger ticket items, like vehicles, boats, RVs, jewelry, etc. 

Here are the 3 biggest benefits of buying big ticket items as closely to home as possible:

1. Supports local workers. Sales professionals work on commission. So part of the cost of your vehicle goes directly into their pocket. This helps support local families, real estate and retail.

2. Some taxes stay local. A portion of the taxes you pay for your new car stay local. They support schools, fire and police departments, among other local agencies.

3. Supports local economy. Through both of the above factors, local workers will recycle many of their earned dollars back into the local economy by buying lifestyle necessities and luxuries.

What Do Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa & Starbucks Have In Common?

Mercedes expert Justin in sales with DJ Katie from Mix 104.9

The family at Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa is an avid supporter of shopping locally, supporting our community and the people who make it go ‘round.  That being said, please forgive us for using Starbucks in this example!  In our defense, let’s not forget that Starbucks, itself, was once a small, Seattle Pike Place independent coffee shop.

The Key To Our Success 

Whether you like Starbucks or prefer the local coffee shops like we do, the glaring similarity between Starbucks and Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa is simple: customer experience. We both thrive on offering a consistently excellent customer experience.  So, in essence, the key to our success is YOU! (and your enjoyable experience)

Starbucks & Mercedes-Benz are all about customer experience

Did you know Starbucks designed its shops to be our “third home”?  Knowing the house is our first, and office is second.  Unlike their competitors who preferred a fast turn-around, Starbucks wanted to make the customer experience so comfortable, people would feel welcome to conduct a small business meeting or linger with their friends for hours. Comfortable chairs, free wi-fi, welcoming staff, good music, nice smell, good food, healthy options and, of course, great coffee.

Our Philosophy

Our philosophy is similar, by way of a combination of the ever-enduring Mercedes-Benz brand reputation and Smothers European's own traditional customer service values.  Every employee at our dealership, service department and parts store is caring and knowledgeable. Attention is taken to make sure our guests don't feel rushed, pushed aside or pressured and instead, are comfortable, informed and empowered. 

This is a Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa experience!

Many of our customers have been with us over the years and thousands of miles, referring their friends and family members, all because of one thing—their experience.  

We genuinely appreciate serving Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino and Lake counties.  Your experience is our experience and we’re honored to share it with you throughout the years.

One Last Thing

Did we mention we have great coffee, too?  Your complimentary cup awaits. :)

When you buy a car from Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa, the experience has only just begun! 

Buying your new car is just the beginning...

Thanks for reading our blog!  If we can answer any questions for you, please feel free to call us at: 707-542-4810 or visit our website for info and instant chat: MBofSantaRosa.com. 

We can also be found on Facebook, Google+ and Pinterest!

The History Of The Hood Ornament

Blog by Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa, MBofSantaRosa.com




Mercedes-Benz is known for their beautiful 3-pointed star hood ornament. Have you ever wondered how it all started? And what about the evolution along the way? 

Here at Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa, we were curious, too, so we looked into it. We hope you find this modern history as interesting as we do!

It All Started With A Radiator Cap!

An original 1913 Boyce Moto Meter

Hood ornaments, or “mascots”, were originally created as radiator thermometers out of the necessity to keep cool an internal combustion engine, essential to the function and longevity of an engine.

In 1912, Harrison Hurlbut Boyce invented a functional (and timely) sensor that would tap into the radiator just above the water line to measure ongoing temperature of the water vapor, rather than the water itself. The gadget was quite effective, and therefore, sought after.

Boyce started making custom models, patented his nifty little invention in 1913, and then partnered with George H. Townsend, who was President of the Moto Meter Company of New York, and the first official Boyce Motometer was in production.

As the gadget grew in popularity for it’s function, the style of Moto Meters was developed, also  out of necessity—to sell cars. After all, who wants a brand new automobile with an ugly adornment on the front, functional or not? Boyce was keen to offer customized versions of his Moto Meter for different manufacturers, as well as for car clubs for distribution to its members. 

Function Meets Design

By the 1920’s, Moto Meters were replaced with radiator caps, and in order to make (functional) radiator caps a part of the (beautiful) vehicle design, the hood ornament was born. In the art deco period of the 1930’s and 40’s, manufacturers began to get their artistic flair for the “ornamental” with Goddesses, birds, and sleekly sculpted animals that represented their brand.

The Mercedes-Benz hood ornament, the renown 3-pointed star, stands for the premier German auto-maker’s pride in quality “by land, by air, by sea”, having developed what they feel are the best engines for all three modes of transportation.  

Modern Hoodies

In the 1980’s, largely due to the popularity of Rappers, a new type of celebrity influencer, the Mercedes-Benz hood ornament became a popular accessory…as a necklace or wall décor for a bachelor pad. This was both a frustrating and costly trend for Mercedes owners in the 1980’s. Between  that, and the constant desire to stay ahead of it’s competitors in design, Mercedes began evolving its valuable hood-brand into a less thief-friendly version, embedded into the car rather than standing up externally.

But you didn’t think Mercedes would stop there, did you? Oh, just check out what we’re up to now! Here’s the “tomorrow” of hood ornaments… 

Thank you for reading our blog! If you have topics you'd like us to research and write about, we welcome your suggestions! 

Even if you didn't buy your Mercedes in Santa Rosa, we consider you family. That's how passionate we are about the Mercedes-Benz brand and reputation for excellence. If we can help, feel free to contact us at 707-542-4810 or submit the Contact form near the top of this page. You may also visit us online at MBofSantaRosa.com.


Mercedes-Benz of Santa Rosa a proud member of the Go Local Sonoma County program. In fact, we're the ONLY auto dealer group to qualify for this program! Smothers European is a Sonoma County family owned and operated company. We truly enjoy serving you!