Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz GLA at a glance

The GLA is a monocoque crossover with a transverse engine, front-wheel drive as standard and 4MATIC all-wheel drive as an option. Its electric counterpart is the Mercedes-Benz EQA. More Mercedes-Benz models are listed in our Mercedes-Benz catalogue.

First generation: X156 (2013–2019)

The first GLA was built in Rastatt, Germany, as well as in China, India, Thailand and Brazil. It was offered with GLA 180, 200 and 250 petrol engines, GLA 200 d and 220 d diesels and the AMG GLA 45 with 265 kW (360 PS), later 280 kW (381 PS). Gearboxes were a six-speed manual and the seven-speed 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic, with front-wheel drive or 4MATIC. A facelift shown in Detroit in January 2017 added LED lights, a new grille and an 8-inch screen.

Second generation: H247 (2019–2026)

Exterior

The second GLA is taller and looks much less like a hatchback than its predecessor. Stepped surfaces, chrome and gloss-black details and large intakes that cool the engine and brakes give it a strong presence. The compact front sits low and slopes for good visibility. Two slim ridges run along the bonnet, leading to a slightly recessed grille with a fine mesh, a large three-pointed star and two chrome bars. Headlights are xenon on base versions and full LED on more expensive ones. The lower bumper's design varies by version, with a large intake, fog lamps and plastic and metal protective elements.

The side has gentle wavy surfacing, chrome window trim, gloss-black pillars and triangular gloss-black mirrors with indicators, plus plastic cladding around the lower body. Wheels range from 17 to 20 inches, including AMG-style designs, and ground clearance is an average 143 mm. Eight paint colours and 12 wheel designs are offered. The slightly sloping rear has a long spoiler with a brake-light strip, a large rear window, triangular tail lights, chrome badges, fog lamps, a gloss-black strip, a metal-look diffuser and two flattened exhaust outlets.

Interior

The interior uses quality fabrics, plastics, genuine leather and metal inserts. The larger body adds 22 mm of headroom and 116 mm of rear legroom. A new three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with touch controls faces a digital instrument display housed under one glass panel with the infotainment touchscreen. Base versions have a 7-inch screen; more expensive versions have a 10.25-inch display. The MBUX system offers high-quality graphics, voice recognition and augmented-reality navigation. Three round chrome-ringed vents evoke an aircraft cabin, and ambient lighting runs through the vents, dashboard and door panels. Below are physical buttons, wireless charging and connectivity sockets, followed by a high centre tunnel with storage, large cupholders and an armrest.

The GLA seats five on comfortable seats with fabric or leather upholstery; Energizing Seat Kinetics adjusts the seat position subtly to support the body, and heating and electric adjustment are optional. The boot holds 435 litres with a regular shape and wide opening; the 40/20/40 rear backrests fold flat, increasing it to 1,430 litres.

Engines and transmissions (H247)

Diesel versions (180 d, 200 d and 220 d 4MATIC) and the GLA 250 e plug-in hybrid, revealed in March 2020, were also offered. The 1.3-litre engine was developed with Renault and is also used in the Renault Clio and Arkana. Published figures give 0–100 km/h in 8.7 seconds, 210 km/h and about 5.9 l/100 km for the GLA 200.

The GLA 180 and 200 use the seven-speed 7G-DCT dual-clutch gearbox and front-wheel drive; most other versions use the eight-speed 8G-DCT, and no manual is offered. 4MATIC uses a multi-plate clutch that can send up to 50% of torque to the rear: Eco and Comfort modes split torque 80:20, Sport 70:30, and the Off-Road mode locks the clutch for a 50:50 split.

Chassis

The H247 uses the MFA2 platform with a transverse engine and a mostly steel body with high-strength grades. Suspension is independent at both ends, with MacPherson struts at the front, a multi-link rear and anti-roll bars. Variable-ratio electric power steering and disc brakes (ventilated at the front) with ABS, EBD and brake assist are fitted.

Safety and equipment

Automatic emergency braking is standard. Blind Spot Assist prevents lane changes when there is danger alongside and warns occupants about approaching traffic before they open a door. Equipment includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist, the Driver Assistance Package, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE, a parking package with surround cameras, Active Parking Assist, high-performance LED headlights, seven airbags and Adaptive Highbeam Assist. Typical equipment includes a digital instrument display, climate control, artificial-leather upholstery, LED lights, 18-inch alloys, heated steering wheel and front seats, and cruise control.

A facelift in March 2023 brought new lights, MBUX with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a standard dual 10.25-inch display.

Third generation (2026 onwards)

The third GLA was revealed on 29 July 2026 and combines electric and combustion versions under one name. Electric versions (GLA 200, 250+ and 350 4MATIC) come first, with up to 657 km of claimed range, a two-speed transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive; hybrids with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox follow in 2027.

Key specifications by generation

Strengths and weaknesses

Owners praise the GLA's modern looks, comfort, low fuel consumption, decent performance, build quality, materials, reliability and safety, and the 4MATIC versions' grip. Drawbacks include limited ground clearance, a high price and expensive servicing, no spare wheel, and restricted visibility through the low, shallow windscreen. Rivals include the BMW X1 and X2, Audi Q3, Mini Countryman, Volvo XC40, Range Rover Evoque and Lexus UX.