Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes GLA video review

We test the new Mercedes GLA on and off-road, and try out the powerful GLA 45 AMG version

Mercedes GLA video

The Mercedes GLA might be referred to as a small SUV, but really it looks more like a larger, more comfortable version of the A-Class. It's taller than the hatchback it's based on, but is actually much smaller than the Audi Q3.

The GLA's comfortable and refined ride rights our main complaint about the fidgety and sometimes uncomfortable A-Class.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It's not at the expense of handling either. There’s more bodyroll than the A-Class, but not enough to stop you having fun, and the steering is sharp too.

We'd go for the diesel versions, which do lose some refinement, but the improved running costs do sweeten the deal somewhat. The Automatic gearbox is pretty good, but you might want to think about going for the manual instead.

Although most customers will go for the standard petrol and diesel models and never take it off-road, for those wanting something extra it does have another couple of strings in its bow.

Later this year you’ll be able to buy a special off-road pack for the GLA , which adds a few basic off-loading features to help traverse muddy fields or bumpy dirt tracks.

If you prefer something quicker, AMG has worked its magic, too. Like the A45 and CLA 45, the GLA 45 AMG features a 355bhp 2.0 turbocharged engine. It's a bit slower to 60 thanks to the higher weight, but in reality you’ll never really feel the difference.

In the end apart from a comfier ride and basic of-road ability, the Mercedes GLA is mainly about the extra space - the boot is 40% bigger than that of the A-Class. Forget was Mercedes say, think of it less as an SUV and more as an A-Class estate.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Volvo XC40 alternatives: New and used substitutes for the stylish Swedish SUV
Volvo XC40 alternatives - header image

Volvo XC40 alternatives: New and used substitutes for the stylish Swedish SUV

The Volvo XC40 is a superb family SUV, but what if you want something different? We’ve come up with six great new and used alternative choices
Features
1 Feb 2025
Mercedes GLA vs Alfa Romeo Tonale 2024 twin test: premium plug-in hybrids go head-to-head
Mercedes GLA and Alfa Romeo Tonale - front tracking

Mercedes GLA vs Alfa Romeo Tonale 2024 twin test: premium plug-in hybrids go head-to-head

Updates to the Mercedes GLA include a longer range for the plug-in hybrid version – does that put it ahead of the Alfa Romeo Tonale?
Car group tests
9 Mar 2024

Most Popular

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options
Renault Clio design render - front

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options

Renault’s sixth-generation Clio hatchback will get a clean look and hi-tech kit, and our exclusive images show what it could look like
News
12 Feb 2025
The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027
Fiat Panda Cross - front static

The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027

Fiat will build a new city-sized Pandina based on the new 500 platform, bringing a proper, petrol powered A-segment city car to market as early as 202…
News
12 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: retro Renault 5 for £232 per month, plus four years to enjoy it
Renault 5 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: retro Renault 5 for £232 per month, plus four years to enjoy it

The reborn Renault 5 is one of the most feverishly anticipated cars in a long time, and at such a low price, our Deal of the Day for 8 February is a p…
News
8 Feb 2025

Find a car with the experts