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The Mercedes-Benz GLA is now in its second generation, having first been introduced in 2013. The current model followed in 2019 and was very much a refinement of the formula - this is a family car roughly the size of the Mercedes A-Class hatchback, but it sits a little taller for that all-important raised seating position that crossover buyers crave.
These second-generation models don’t quite have the rugged look of the earlier cars but are better in most other respects, with more cabin space, a more striking interior design, and improved ride and handling, while a ride range of engines - including petrol, plug-in hybrid, diesel, and high-performance versions - covers most bases. With the Mercedes EQA there’s also a fully electric option - and with all models, buying used can result in some useful savings over a brand-new GLA.
If you were a fan of the original Mercedes GLA then you’ll probably quite like the second generation model launched in 2019 too. It’s a natural evolution, taking the same formula - a slightly taller and more spacious take on the A-Class hatchback - and refining it with a flashier interior, smoother styling, and a better drive. But you don’t have to be an existing Mercedes buyer for the GLA to make sense either, as all those qualities make it a well-rounded family car in general.
The exterior styling is a little anonymous compared to its predecessor, but that Mercedes badge will still look good on the driveway. The interior is where the action is anyway, with a modern layout comprising jet-like air vents and a slick twin-screen driver display and infotainment layout. The screens can take a while to get used to but work well with familiarity, and allow plenty of customisation.
The GLA is practical too, with useful interior space despite a relatively compact exterior - aided by being a full 10cm taller than the original GLA. Despite the extra height it’s better to drive too, and rides less firmly than before. That’s even the case for the high-performance AMG models, but most buyers will be sated by the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options, all of which are economical and perform well.
If you’re still not sold on the GLA then you’re in luck, because there are plenty of alternatives ready to take your money instead - the Audi Q2 and BMW X1 and X2 are probably the most direct rivals, but the Range Rover Evoque is a stylish option, and Japanese luxury brand Lexus offers several compact SUVs that overlap with the GLA on price, including the LBX, UX, and NX.
The GLA is one of those cars where many buyers would be perfectly well served by the least expensive model, which is good news if you’re looking to put a Benz badge on the driveway but want to keep costs to a minimum. Its decent performance, frugal engine and generous equipment levels even in the lower trim lines make it a good all-rounder.
19-36 of 166 vehicles
If you have somewhere to plug in, the GLA 250e is worth a look, but otherwise the diesel might be the better option if you want to maximise economy. The GLA 35 and 45 AMG models are both a riot to drive, but something of a niche choice - we suspect those interested in AMG-style performance would prefer the regular A-Class AMGs.
Mercedes has a habit of tweaking its trim level lineups over time but the models listed below should be broadly representative of the cars you’ll find for sale, with standard trim lines spanning Sport Executive to AMG Line Premium Plus Night Edition, with two dedicated AMG models at the top of the tree. The GLA range was facelifted in July 2023 so equipment may differ depending on whether you’re looking at a GLA before or after this date.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA’s dimensions are:
The Mercedes-Benz GLA’s boot size is:
The majority of the GLA range cost more than £40,000 when brand new, which means most are subject to the government’s high-value vehicle VED surcharge. For petrol and diesel cars that currently means a £600 annual bill, until the car’s seventh year of registration, or £10 cheaper for the plug-in hybrid GLA 250e. The handful of cars that cost less than £40k when new get a much lower rate of £190 per year, or £180 for the plug-in version.
The GLA range spans groups 22-37 for insurance, out of a maximum group 50, with Sport and Sport Executive models and the 200 petrol engine being at the bottom of that range. The GLA 35 is then a little higher, starting in group 38, while the GLA 45 starts in group 41.
£25,849
£38,295
£37,289
£789 off£32,236
£35,490
£28,393
£32,695
£27,985
£35,990
£24,795
£18,750
£27,000
£14,490
£27,495
£31,098
£33,380
£2,400 off£39,980
£26,995
What is the most popular colour for Mercedes-Benz GLA ?
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What is the average mileage for Mercedes-Benz GLA ?
26327
How many Mercedes-Benz GLA cars are available for sale?
220
