Overview
The GLA-class SUV is the horny sibling of the marginally extra sensible GLB-class. What the sleeker GLA loses in cabin and cargo house it makes up for with enhanced styling, which suggests it’s the higher selection for individuals who favor type over perform of their SUV. The trendy, modern-looking inside is handsomely appointed in upscale supplies. The GLA’s 221-horsepower turbo-four engine delivers ample energy to both the entrance or all 4 wheels and is complemented by the subcompact crossover’s composed dealing with. In case you’re after a GLA that can gentle up your synapses with its efficiency, then head within the route of the vastly extra highly effective AMG GLA45. If, however, you’re searching for a fashion-forward mode of transport with adequate house and a wholesome dose of luxurious and refinement, then the GLA-class ought to fit your desires and desires elegantly.
What’s New for 2024?
Mercedes has revitalized the GLA-class for the 2024 mannequin 12 months, giving it a brand new face with high-output LED headlights in addition to a newly sculpted hind finish with up to date taillights. Below hood, the GLA-class will get a hybrid-assist system, which ought to assist the engine function extra effectively however doesn’t essentially improve efficiency. Different enhancements embrace a newly customary 10.3-inch infotainment show with the newest software program plus wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Moreover, excessive beam help, the Parking package deal, Mirror package deal and Keyless GO package deal are all now customary tools.
Pricing and Which One to Purchase
GLA250
$40,000 (est)
$42,000 (est)
Whereas nobody who buys a GLA250 is prone to discover the paths, choosing the 4Matic mannequin provides extra than simply all-wheel drive. Mercedes makes the Off-Street Engineering package deal customary on that mannequin, which offers an off-road driving mode that decreases throttle response and energy supply. Some drivers could discover it helpful in sure conditions, similar to plowing by way of heavy snow. We’d be inclined so as to add the non-compulsory Burmester encompass sound system, too, as we respect having a high quality audio expertise throughout street journeys.
Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency
The 2024 GLA-class is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 221 horsepower and is assisted by hybrid expertise. The turbo-four can also be paired with an eight-speed computerized that transmits energy to the entrance or all 4 wheels. Whereas we haven’t but pushed a GLA with the brand new hybrid tech, we anticipate efficiency figures to stay the identical. At our take a look at monitor, a earlier model-year all-wheel drive GLA250 4Matic managed a 60-mph time of 6.3 seconds—ample however removed from quick in comparison with many EV SUVs. That consequence is definitely slower than the last-generation mannequin, which managed a 5.7-second end in the identical take a look at. Though the GLA250 is just not meant as a sporting SUV, its dealing with consists, and its suspension is compliant sufficient over tough stretches of street to keep away from being uncouth.
Gas Economic system and Actual-World MPG
The EPA has not printed estimates for the 2024 GLA-class but. We anticipate figures to enhance given the addition of the hybrid-assist system. For reference, the 2023 GLA250 was rated at 24 mpg within the metropolis, 34 mpg on the freeway, and 28 mpg mixed. The all-wheel drive GLA250 4Matic’s gas economic system estimates had been 23 mpg metropolis, 32 mpg freeway, and 26 mpg metropolis. We have not had an opportunity to check the brand new GLA250 on our 200-mile freeway fuel-economy take a look at route, however once we do we are going to replace this story with the outcomes. For extra details about the GLA-class’s gas economic system, go to the EPA’s web site.
Inside, Consolation, and Cargo
One of many chief complaints concerning the previous-generation GLA-class was its cramped inside. Mercedes rectified that with the current-generation mannequin. Rear-seat passengers are handled to virtually 5 inches of extra legroom, in addition to elevated house for shoulders and elbows. This helps the GLA-class compete extra straight with key rivals such because the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40. Inside supplies look upscale, and the structure of controls and climate-control vents is just like what we see on the GLB-class, with a column-mounted shifter, center-console-mounted infotainment controller, and round vents alongside the dashboard. Cargo capability is adequate and grows with the rear seats folded flat, and the cargo flooring is flush with that of the sill, which ought to make sliding bulkier gadgets out and in of the trunk simpler. In our testing, the GLA250 match six of our carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Each 2024 GLA is supplied with two 10.3-inch shows, one for the motive force’s gauge show and one for the infotainment system. This can be a barely refined setup has been rolled out all through the Mercedes lineup to blended opinions from our editors. The system may be manipulated both through the touchscreen, utilizing voice instructions, or by using the touchpad controller on the middle console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are customary whereas navigation, SiriusXM satellite tv for pc radio, a head-up show, and a Burmester premium audio system are all non-compulsory.
Security and Driver-Help Options
Automated emergency braking and high-beam help are customary throughout the vary, however extra superior driver-assistance options similar to adaptive cruise management and lane-keeping help would require including the non-compulsory Driver Help package deal. For extra details about the GLA-class’s crash-test outcomes, go to the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance coverage Institute for Freeway Security (IIHS) web sites. Key security options embrace:
Customary automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Obtainable lane-departure warning with lane-keeping help Obtainable adaptive cruise management with a lane-centering function
Guarantee and Upkeep Protection
Mercedes presents a fundamental guarantee package deal, with protection stretching 4 years or 50,000 miles. The Lexus NX presents longer guarantee phrases whereas others, whereas different rivals such because the BMW and the Volvo supply prolonged contracts for complimentary scheduled upkeep.
Restricted guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles Powertrain guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled upkeep
Extra Options and Specs