Thinking of getting a Mercedes-Benz GLA?
The style of the car
The GLA is a stylish compact SUV that looks like a conventional hatchback but sits higher off the ground. The latest version (sold from 2020) has a sleeker look than the previous model, which was on sale new from 2014 to 2020. With both models, the AMG Line and high-performance GLA35 and GLA45 versions look sportier.
How it drives
The GLA is one of Mercedes’ most compact cars but it feels much like one of its larger models – safe, solid and secure. Its compact size means town driving and manoeuvring is easy, though the view out of the older car isn’t as great. Parking sensors are standard and some models have reversing cameras. There’s a wide range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from and a choice of manual or automatic gearbox options. The most powerful models have ‘4MATIC’ four-wheel drive. There’s a plug-in hybrid version of the latest GLA, too.
The interior
The Mercedes GLA is a compact, five-door SUV with five seats. It’s about the same size as the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. The older version of the GLA (sold before 2020) has a lot of front-seat space and the back seats are ideal for children. The boot has room for a week’s worth of holiday luggage and the back seats fold down for more room. The latest GLA is bigger and more spacious so even tall people will be comfortable in the back seat. All GLA models have air con and cruise control; top-spec models have some of the same high-tech features as Mercedes’ luxury saloons.
Running costs and reliability
Both versions of the GLA are available with a wide range of petrol or diesel engines. The petrols give good fuel economy for this type of car. But the diesels are a better option if using as little fuel as possible is a priority for you. The latest GLA is also available as a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid that has a range of up to 37 miles driving on battery power. Road tax and insurance costs are reasonable for most models but the high-performance AMG models are more expensive to run. The previous model scored a maximum five stars when tested by safety organisation Euro NCAP; the new version is yet to be tested.
How the Mercedes-Benz GLA compares with similar cars
The GLA’s premium-brand rivals include the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Similar cars from more mainstream brands include the Honda HR-V and Volkswagen T-Roc. The GLA isn’t the most spacious car of its type but its stylish looks and premium feel make it very appealing.
Not sure what the difference between Mercedes’ latest SUV models is, and which one is best for you? Here’s our guide to the range.
