The first-generation Mercedes GLA was introduced for model-year 2015, and competed with compact luxury machines like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 and Jaguar E-Pace.

Designed to be maneuverable, efficient, spirited and off-road capable, the GLA was the first Mercedes of its era to use the brand’s next-generation 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Alongside its utility model siblings like the GLK, ML, GL and G-class models, there was a total of five luxury Mercedes crossovers for shoppers to consider.

A highly rigid body structure and standard 2.0-litre turbo engine with 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque laid the foundation for a refined and responsive drive, with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and engine Start/Stop functionality improving efficiency and performance.

On the safety front, look for features like attention assist, collision prevention assist plus, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, the Mercedes Parktronic system, and plenty more. Both standard and AMG-tuned variants of the GLA were available, giving shoppers the choice between a well-rounded compact luxury crossover, and a high-performing version noted for its performance thrills.

Regardless of the model you’re considering, note that reviewers and owners note the GLA for its sporty performance, premium materials and generous list of standard safety tech, but some were left wishing for a softer ride, faster responses from the transmission, a quieter cabin, and a touch more cargo space.

Check the links below for additional reviews, specs, photos and news about the 2015-2020 Mercedes GLA, and read on for five tips to help you find the best used Mercedes GLA you can for the dollar.

2017 update

By model year 2017, Mercedes updated the GLA to better compete with its rapidly-evolving rivals. This year, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became available, alongside a new kick-to-open power tailgate. Equipment and packaging were optimized, and both the interior and exterior were updated to reflect a smoother, more modern style.

  • Apple CarPlay / Android Auto available
  • New styling
  • Revised equipment packaging

android, used guide: 2015-2020 mercedes-benz gla

Mercedes-Benz GLA, Edition1, AMG Line Photo by Mercedes-Benz

Sunroof shoes

Some owners have reported broken sunroof shoes — basically, a clip that allows the sunroof panel to ride along its motorized track.

On your test drive, be sure to open, close, and tilt the sunroof several times, noting that any straining, cracking sounds, crunching noises or failure of the sunroof to move in a smooth and quiet manner, could be signs of trouble.

Open the sunroof fully and check the track area for signs of glass or plastic debris, which could indicate a damaged part or previous repair. The sunroof shoes may fail while driving with the roof in its tilted position, and repair can be a lengthy and pricey proposition, say many owners, who report that the ceiling liner needs to be removed.

If the sunroof on the GLA you’re considering needs a repair or replacement, you’ll want to know about it before you buy to avoid expensive headaches; so, check carefully.

Here’s some more reading.

  • Crunching or cracking sounds can indicate trouble
  • Ensure smooth and quiet panel movement
  • Sunroof repairs can be expensive

android, used guide: 2015-2020 mercedes-benz gla

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Backup camera test

Some GLA owners have reported sporadic operation or complete failure of their backup cameras. Most have not. This is an important safety feature on the GLA you’re considering, so be sure to throughly check it before you buy.

Engage reverse gear several times on your test drive, confirming that the backup camera image feed appears almost instantly, every time you’re reversing. If that’s not the case, culprits may include an aftermarket licence plate frame that’s blocking the camera from popping out of its covered hiding spot, or corrosion or failure of one or more wires in the camera module’s wiring harness.

If you encounter this problem, there’s a handy reference here that can help with a DIY fix.

  • Test the camera multiple times
  • Confirm that the camera isn’t blocked
  • A wiring problem may be to blame

android, used guide: 2015-2020 mercedes-benz gla

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic

Transmission and driveline checkup

Few modern cars with automatic or dual-clutch transmissions are free of owners reporting driveability issues that require updated software or components to fix, and the GLA is no exception.

Some owners have reported transmissions that are slow to engage the selected gear, switch violently between reverse and drive, or hesitate or slam when shifting up or down while in motion. According to some owners, transmission refinement problems may become more apparent in situations where the vehicle is switched between drive and reverse in rapid succession, for instance, while making a three or five-point turn.

Find an empty parking lot and execute numerous multi-point turns, switching from drive to reverse several times. Be sure the vehicle is fully stopped before switching gears. If you notice inconsistent throttle response, slamming, or a jarring sensation when changing gears during this test, have a technician investigate or move to another unit. Buying a used GLA with an undiagnosed transmission problem is not advised.

While making multi-point turns, pay attention to the rear of the vehicle. If you notice a clicking sound or a tendency for the rear wheels to feel like they’re binding or skipping, there may be a problem with the AWD system or rear axle. Most owners do not report this problem. In some cases, a weak or improperly-sized battery can interfere with proper electronic operation of the rear axle, causing the previous issues.

  • Perform a series of multi-point turns
  • Jarring or slamming gearshifts can be bad news
  • A software update may be required
  • Pay attention to rear axle

android, used guide: 2015-2020 mercedes-benz gla

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 Photo by Handout /Mercedes-Benz

Full-throttle test

Where safe and appropriate, accelerate at full throttle from a low speed to highway cruising speed in the GLA you’re considering, and do it several times. During hard acceleration, some owners have reported a dramatic lurching or jerking sensation, often described as if the brakes were applied hard for a moment while the vehicle tries to accelerate.

If you notice a brief but aggressive loss of power during full throttle acceleration, the likely culprit is a bad crankshaft position sensor, which the owner community says isn’t terribly expensive or difficult to replace. Many owners who have experienced problems like this have had luck fixing them with a new crankshaft position sensor.

This problem seems to only occur at full throttle, and may not cause a check engine light to illuminate. If something feels off, it probably is. Have a technician investigate before you buy.

  • Perform a series of multi-point turns
  • Jarring or slamming gearshifts can be bad news
  • A software update may be required
  • Pay attention to rear axle

Final thought

These tips were designed for test driving shoppers to more easily identify problems reported by some owners. A careful and attentive test drive that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class copy of a second-hand Mercedes GLA.

Justin Pritchard

Justin Pritchard is a Sudbury, Ontario based automotive journalist and award-winning presenter, photographer, videographer and technical writer. Every week, Justin uses his keyboard, voice and cameras to share his latest automotive reviews and discoveries with his audience, via multiple Canadian television programs, print and online publications.

See More Articles From This Author

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