Mercedes-Benz GLA
2018 - GLA 200 SE 5dr
Mercedes-Benz GLA
2019 - GLA 180 Urban Edition 5dr
Mercedes-Benz GLA
2021 - GLA 200d Sport 5dr Auto
Mercedes-Benz GLA
2025 (25) - GLA 220d 4Matic AMG Line Premium Plus 5dr Auto
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
The GLA is a stylish compact SUV from a very desirable premium brand with a wide choice of engines and trims, and a raft of high-tech features.
Mercedes has a long-established reputation for building solid, reliable cars and the GLA upholds that tradition.
The high-performance GLA35 and GLA45 can be quite costly to run, but the other petrol and diesel engines give good fuel economy for a car of this type.
Older versions of the GLA (sold before 2020) aren’t the most spacious of compact SUVs, but still work well for a small family. The latest version of the GLA is bigger and roomier, with ample space for four tall adults.
The GLA closely matches rivals such as the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 in most areas. The latest model has an especially stylish and high-tech interior, as well as more interior space.
