Mercedes Benz GLA Class

Overview: Is the Mercedes GLA a Good SUV?

Joining the new Mercedes Benz lineup for 2015, the subcompact GLA slots below the GLC as the brand's smallest SUV. Aimed at younger buyers, the front-wheel drive-based GLA combines a raised ride height, available all-wheel drive, and Mercedes luxury in a nimble, urban-friendly package. Sporty styling, the latest tech features, and reasonably competitive pricing also help differentiate the GLA. Cargo space trails rivals, however, and the firm suspension doesn't isolate rough road surfaces as smoothly as other Benz SUVs and sedans. But shoppers wanting an entry-level crossover with a three-pointed star crest now have an option with the Mercedes GLA. The GLA Mercedes competes with the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo CX40, among others.

Note: Equipment and features can vary by model year. Always confirm details when looking for a used Mercedes Benz GLA Class for sale.

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Related: Range Rover vs. Mercedes: A Complete Brand Comparison

Key Features

The Mercedes-Benz GLA has:

• Subcompact luxury crossover SUV body style
• Turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine
• Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• Front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive

Trims

The Mercedes GLA 250 and GLA 250 4Matic are the core trims for this small Mercedes SUV. Performance variants include the AMG GLA 35 and AMG GLA 45.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Supportive front seats and crisp digital displays provide a proper upscale environment. Just remember that this is still an entry-level vehicle in Mercedes style. So, the GLA may feel underwhelming compared to its more expensive stablemates. In addition, the rear seat is tight, especially for taller riders. Also, cargo room trails more practical but less stylish rivals. The infotainment system (Comand or MBUX, depending on the year) generally gets good grades for usability and features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added in 2017.

How It Drives

The GLA 250 delivers satisfying acceleration and nimble handling. Firm suspension tuning supports spirited driving, but this can make for a stiff ride. In base form, the GLA is quick (below seven seconds for a 0-60 mph dash), but AMG power transforms this diminutive crossover into a hot hatch. The AMG GLA 45 reaches 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds thanks to 382 horsepower and 354 lb ft of torque in newer editions. Of course, fuel economy takes a hit with AMG editions, but up to 30 mpg on the highway isn’t terrible.

Safety

The Mercedes GLA 250 (and AMG variants) have yet to undergo safety testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Reviews

First-generation Mercedes GLA (2015-2021) owners told Kelley Blue Book mostly good things about their cars, rating this vehicle 4.4 (out of 5.0). Styling, quality, and reliability are among the GLA’s most appreciated qualities, while comfort comes up short. There are too few Mercedes GLA reviews about the second generation to summarize how this edition stands.

Learn More: Mercedes Remote Start: The Full Rundown

FAQs

What is the difference between GLC and GLA?

The compact GLC (x253/x254) is a taller, more mainstream luxury crossover utility with roomier accommodations, while the subcompact GLA takes a sportier approach with less interior space.

What is bigger, the GLA or GLE?

The midsize GLE is considerably larger than the modest GLA, Mercedes’s smallest SUV.

Is the GLA a crossover or an SUV?

The front-wheel drive-based GLA is categorized as a subcompact luxury crossover SUV rather than a traditional body-on-frame luxury SUV.

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