Everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz GLA

• Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good car? 
• Who is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good car for?
• Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good first car?
• Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good family car?
• Is there a Hybrid Mercedes-Benz GLA?
• What’s it like to drive? 
• Reviewer’s opinion
• What does it look like?
• What is the Mercedes-Benz GLA like inside? 
• Tech features
• Price and specs
• Which is the cheapest Mercedes-Benz GLA?
• How much does it cost?
• Similar Cars to the Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers a more affordable way of getting behind the wheel of a crossover SUV that wears the coveted three-pointed star. This accommodating crossover appeals to both young and old alike and may be all the car you ever need.

In this article:

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good car? 

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is the smallest, most compact crossover SUV on offer from Mercedes-Benz. It’s best to think of the GLA as the SUV version of the A-Class and in fact, the styling and appointments are rather similar between the two. The first GLA was released locally in 2014 and the second generation dropped in November 2020 for the 2021 model year.

Who is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good car for?

If you’re an individual who places emphasis on style, quality, and presence, the Mercedes-Benz GLA will tick all the right boxes. Proudly wearing the three-pointed star, the GLA is ideal for those wishing to make a statement about their quality of life. Compact proportions and practicality also make the GLA a hit with the smaller, younger family.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good first car?

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a compact crossover SUV and as such is not difficult to drive. It’s equipped with numerous convenience features and safety systems to make it appealing to new drivers. The high purchase price is the only detraction from buying a GLA as a first car. Experienced drivers buying for the first time may want to ensure that a used GLA has the balance of the warranty and maintenance plan to ensure that the ownership experience isn’t more expensive than anticipated.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA a good family car?

The GLA offers ample seating for 4 adults and presents a 520/525-litre boot when the rear hatch is opened. The aforementioned safety systems also help provide peace of mind and we see no reason why you shouldn’t consider a Mercedes-Benz GLA as a family car.

Is there a Hybrid Mercedes-Benz GLA?

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is only available with the choice of petrol or diesel engines, neither of which are supplemented by a hybrid drivetrain system. The electric equivalent of the GLA is the EQA.

View the latest used Mercedes-Benz GLA for sale in South Africa

What’s it like to drive? 

Reviewer’s opinion

“Of greater importance for a car of this type is ride comfort, a hurdle which the GLA 200d clears with reasonable ease. In spite of the AMG Line suspension bits and optional 20-inch tyres fitted to this test car, the springs and dampers are well-matched to dismiss most road imperfections with a minimum of fuss. It’s still compromised in comparison to non-AMG Line-equipped cars, however, so comfort-biased buyers would be much happier with the suspension fitted to the base GLA.”

– AutoTrader

What does it look like?

Exterior

Interior

What is the Mercedes-Benz GLA like inside? 

Despite its compact dimensions, the GLA carries a spacious cabin that shouldn’t feel too small or claustrophobic for taller individuals. Taller drivers will be able to find a comfortable driving position but this may come at the expense of rear-seat legroom. Interior trimming may perhaps not be of the same level that one would find in a higher-tier model but the GLA makes no secret of the fact that it is a premium offering, giving you ample leather and sufficient polished surfaces.

Style

The overall design of the GLA belies is compact size, it’s only once one gets closer that its true size is revealed and as such, the GLA appears – from the outside – to be a large, imposing SUV. Short overhangs and a raised ride height lend to the perception of its off-road prowess while tasteful creases and coupe-like sculpting give it a sporty appeal.

Tech features

• Two 7-inch displays (10.25-inch displays optional)
• Configurable MBUX operating system
• “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant
• Driver Assistance Package (optional)
• Car Wash mode

Price and specs

Which is the cheapest Mercedes-Benz GLA?

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz GLA starts from as little as R816 376 before options and can extend to R880 618 for a base-spec AMG Line version.

Search the latest New and Used Mercedes-Benz GLA deals in South Africa

How much does it cost?

*Pricing correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice.

Competitors

Similar Cars to the Mercedes-Benz GLA

BMW X1

Audi Q3

Volvo XC40

Chad LückhoffWith over 18 years of motorsport commentary and a passion for 90s Japanese Sports Cars, Chad Lückhoff is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. His experience as the Technical Editor of the country’s top tuning magazine means that it’s the nuts and bolts of motoring that tickles his fancy. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 7-years.View News & Reviews

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