Overview
The GLA-class SUV is the sexy sibling of the slightly more practical GLB-class. What the sleek GLA loses in cabin and cargo space it makes up for with better styling, which means it’s a better option for those who favor form over function in their SUVs. The stylish, modern-looking interior is beautifully appointed in high-end materials. The GLA’s 221-horsepower turbo-four engine delivers ample power to the front or all four wheels and is complemented by the subcompact crossover’s composed handling. If you’re after a GLA that will light up your synapses with its performance, head in the direction of the insanely powerful AMG GLA45. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a fashion-forward mode of transport with ample space and a healthy dose of luxury and refinement, the GLA-class should suit your wants and needs.
What’s new for 2024?
Mercedes has revived the GLA-Class for the 2024 model year, giving it a facelift with higher-output LED headlights as well as updated taillights. Under the hood, the GLA-Class gets a hybrid-assist system, which helps the engine operate more efficiently but doesn’t necessarily increase performance. Other enhancements include the new standard 10.3-inch infotainment display with the latest software, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the High Beam Assist, Parking Package, Mirror Package and Keyless Go Package are now all standard equipment.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
While anyone buying a GLA250 isn’t likely to explore the trails, choosing the 4Matic model adds more than just all-wheel drive. Mercedes makes the Off-Road Engineering package standard on that model, which offers an off-road driving mode that reduces throttle response and power delivery. Some drivers may find this useful in certain situations, such as plowing through heavy snow. We’d also be inclined to add the optional Burmester surround sound system, as we appreciate a quality audio experience during road trips.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
The 2024 GLA-Class is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 221 horsepower and is assisted by hybrid technology. The turbo-four is also mated to an eight-speed automatic that transmits power to the front or all four wheels. While we haven’t yet driven the GLA with the new hybrid tech, we expect the performance figures to remain the same. On our test track, a previous model-year All-Wheel Drive GLA250 4Matic managed a 60-mph time of 6.3 seconds—adequate but far from fast than many EV SUVs. That result is actually slower than the previous generation model, which is a 5.7-Second Result in the same test. Although the GLA250 isn’t intended as a sporting SUV, its handling is composed, and its suspension is compliant enough on rough stretches of road to avoid being unwieldy.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA has not yet published 2024 GLA-class estimates. We expect the figures to improve with the addition of the hybrid-assist system. For context, the 2023 GLA250 was rated at 24 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. Fuel economy for the all-wheel drive GLA250 4Matic was estimated at 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 26 mpg city. We haven’t had a chance to test drive the new GLA250 on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test route, but we’ll update this story with the results when we do. For more information on the fuel economy of the GLA-class, see EPA website,
Interior, Comfort & Cargo
One of the main complaints about the previous generation GLA-class was its cramped interior. Mercedes rectified that with the current generation model. Rear seat passengers are treated to nearly five inches of extra legroom, as well as increased room for shoulders and elbows. This helps the GLA-class compete more directly with key rivals such as Audi Q3, bmw x1And Volvo XC40, Interior materials look upscale, and the layout of controls and climate-control vents are similar to what we see on the GLB-Class, with a column-mounted shifter, center-console-mounted infotainment controller and circular vents along the dashboard. Cargo capacity is ample and increases with the rear seats folded flat, and the cargo floor is flush with the sill, which should make sliding heavy items in and out of the trunk easy. In our testing, the GLA250 fit six of our carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat.
Infotainment & Connectivity
Every 2024 GLA is equipped with two 10.3-inch displays, one for the driver’s gauge display and the other for the infotainment system. It’s a slightly refined setup that has been rolled out across the entire Mercedes lineup Mixed reviews from our editors, The system can be manipulated either via the touchscreen, using voice commands, or using the touchpad controller on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard while navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, a heads-up display and a Burmester premium audio system are all optional.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Automatic emergency braking and high-beam assist are standard across the range, but are more advanced driver-assistance features Features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist will need to be added as an optional driver assistance package. For more information on the crash-test results of the GLA-class, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHSWebsites. Key security features include:
- Standard Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control available with lane-keeping feature
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes offers a basic warranty package with coverage of up to four years or 50,000 miles. Lexus NX Offers longer warranty terms while others, while other rivals such as bmw And this Volvo Offer longer contracts for complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- no complimentary scheduled maintenance
More Features and Specifications