Mercedes-Benz GLA review (2014-2020)
Premium, compact and stylish – the GLA ticks all the right boxes. Some may see it as a slightly raised A-Class, and that isn't a bad thing, but we think it’s so much more. It might share the same underpinnings as the A-Class, but it’s a purpose-built SUV, which is also unmistakably Mercedes-Benz. Check out our in-depth Mercedes GLA review.
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Pros
- Nice interior
- Smooth automatic gearbox
- Great infotainment system
Cons
- Expensive
- Small boot
Interior
Our rating: 8/10
Driving position
The GLA is somewhere between hatchback and SUV. It's heavily based on the A-Class hatchback in terms of its mechanics, and that's evident from behind the wheel.
You sit pretty low which gives it a sporty feel.
There is a bit of height involved, but it's nowhere near as SUV-like as an Audi Q3 or BMW X1.
If you're after a taller GLA, consider the second-generation model.
Visibility is good, but like the regular A-Class on which this is based, you do get some blind spots between the rear windscreen and the sides of the car, which is evident when reverse parking.
Tech and features
There are four key trim levels to choose from on the first-generation model – SE, Sport, AMG Line and Executive.
Even the entry-level SE cars come with air-con, a reversing camera, faux leather trim, 17-inch alloy wheels and autonomous emergency braking, so you won't feel like you've cut corners.
If you move up to Sport, you’ll get aluminium roof rails, automatic lights and wipers, an upgraded climate control and tinted windows to up the luxury factor.
The alloy wheels are an inch larger in diameter, too.
Top spec AMG Line or Executive cars come with even larger 19-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in run-flat tyres and full leather trim.
Performance
Our rating: 7/10
Handling and ride comfort
The Mercedes GLA drives with ease around town, and parking is helped by the light steering and slightly loftier viewpoint the raised suspension affords you.
Yes, the ride can feel a touch firm. You can mitigate this by choosing an example with smaller alloy wheels.
Any body movement, though, is well controlled along a backroad or over speed bumps.
Engines and power
The diesel engines are keen to avoid refuelling stops, and work best when paired with the automatic gearbox, which is smooth to change and helps keep the revs low, at which point the engines are at their quietest.
If your driving involves mostly town work, the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the GLA 180 is sweet.
If you’re looking for hot hatch action, you can’t go far wrong with the Mercedes-AMG A45, which is a bit of a firecracker.
Practicality
Our rating: 7/10
The GLA may look like an SUV but it has the space of a large hatchback inside.
While you can sit one strapping adult behind another, they might end up hoping the journey isn’t too lengthy.
Rear seats
Some versions have an adjustable rear seatback, allowing you to sit upright or recline as you see fit.
This also allows you to vary comfort or boot space as required.
Boot space
You get a 421-litre boot regardless of engine option or whether you go for the four-wheel-drive 4MATIC versions.
This is a fair chunk more than the A-Class (341 litres), so it's the perfect upgrade for growing families.
Running costs
Our rating: 8/10
Fuel economy
There’s a vast range of petrol and diesel engines, starting with the GLA 180 1.6-litre petrol that manages an average of 41mpg and is nippy enough to be ideal if your life consists of urban motoring.
If you travel farther afield on a regular basis, you’ll want a diesel.
The GLA 200d works well with the optional automatic gearbox, and will get from 0-62mph in just over 9.0 seconds.
It’ll do an average economy of around 49mpg.
This is also ideal for long motorway trips, because it’s more than strong enough to keep up with traffic.
The verdict
Interior
8/10
Performance
7/10
Practicality
7/10
Running costs
8/10
The Mercedes GLA is a good-looking SUV that has a suitably rugged appearance with all the classy, slick attributes buyers in this marketplace love.
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