The Mercedes GLA is a great choice if you want something big enough for a family, but not unwieldy.
And it’s one of the more attainable Merc models, without skimping on a premium interior and lots of great tech. No wonder it’s so popular…
If you see yourself behind the wheel of a Mercedes GLA, here’s how to pick your ideal version.
Mercedes GLA models
The Mercedes GLA is based on the A-Class hatchback, but adds extra space for passengers and luggage, plus a higher driving position for a more confident view down the road. All GLAs are five-seat, five-door SUVs with roof rails and rugged-looking plastic cladding around the wheel arches.
Four-wheel drive is available on high-spec diesel models, or on the fiery AMG versions. You’ll spot these four-wheel-drive GLAs thanks to the 4Matic badging.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
The first AMG is badged 35. It was introduced as a halfway point between the normal GLA range and the red-hot poker that is the GLA 45 S. The 2.0-litre petrol engine produces 306hp, enabling a 0-62mph time of just 5.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S
This turns the GLA from a sensible compact SUV into a serious performance car. Here, the 2.0-litre engine churns out an astonishing 421hp, and it breaks the 62mph mark in a scarcely believable 4.3 seconds. But the GLA 45 S has the costs to go with its stupendous performance – a new one costs £75,000 and you’ll manage no more than 28mpg.
Mercedes EQA
The Mercedes EQA is an electric car that’s based on the GLA. It’s Mercedes’ gateway electric car, but still boasts a high-end interior and a maximum quoted range of 346 miles.
Read our Mercedes EQA review or shop used Mercedes EQA cars for sale
Mercedes GLA trim levels
- Sport – cheapest GLA comes with plenty of standard equipment, including LED headlights, parking assistance, a powered bootlid and, now, two large screens
- Sport Executive – basically brings changed wheels and blind-spot monitoring
- AMG Line Executive – the first of the sporty-styled AMG Line models, with lovely red-trimmed suede seats
- AMG Line Premium – combines the athletic looks with a growing list of standard equipment
- AMG Line Premium Plus – top-spec GLA gets luxuries such as a panoramic sunroof
- Exclusive Edition – a trim level that mixes some aspects of the Sport and AMG Line trim levels, only available with the plug-in hybrid engine
Mercedes GLA by year
Second generation – 2020-present
- Latest GLA with more space and a more convincing SUV look than older one
- Model code – H247
- Facelifted in 2023
- Introduced plug-in hybrid and second AMG model
- Automatic only
First generation – 2014-2020
- Combined A-Class qualities with a crossover look
- Model code – X156
- Facelifted in 2017
- Mixes traditional analogue controls with modern technology
What’s the best Mercedes GLA model?
For its increased practicality and more theatrical interior, we think the best Mercedes GLA model is the latest one. It’s quite expensive as a new car so we’d pick one that’s several years old, and then you’ve got a good selection of trim levels to pick from.
Most buyers will be better off with the two-wheel-drive versions. The petrol engine are ideal if you cover a low-to-medium annual mileage, while diesel is better for regular long journeys or towing duties. The plug-in hybrid offers an electric range of almost 40 miles with a petrol engine as a backup for longer trips.
Read our Mercedes GLA review or shop used Mercedes GLA cars for sale.
