History/Overview
Mercedes-Benz introduced the GLA-Class in 2015 as the entry point to its vast array of sport utility models. The GLA received a mid-cycle refresh in 2018.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2020, Benz has discontinued the high-performance AMG GLA 45 variant. That leaves the GLA 250 as the sole offering. It gains as standard an Avantgarde package that was optional last year; it includes a number of desirable items like a panoramic sunroof, blind spot monitoring, a power tailgate, and automatic climate control.
Available Trims
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which comes matched with a seven-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
Standard Features
On the outside, the GLA 250 comes standard with 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights and daytime running lights, an electric parking brake, rain-sensing wipers, heated windshield washers, fog lights, a hands-free power tailgate, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, and power-folding side mirrors.
Inside, the GLA is fitted with a 4.5-inch gauge cluster display, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, push-button engine start, Artico upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, power driver's seat adjustment, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, a six-speaker stereo, an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and Bluetooth.
Safety features include attention assist, blind spot monitoring, forward collision detection with active brake assist, and tire pressure loss warning.
Key Options
Among the GLA's options is navigation, a 12-speaker stereo, and sport and night packages that add 19-inch wheels and different exterior treatments.
Fuel Economy
As of this writing, Mercedes hadn't published fuel consumption figures for its 2020 models, but those for the GLA should be similar, if not identical, to those for the 2019 version, at 10.1/7.6 L/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class competes for buyers with the Audi Q3, BMW's X1 and X2, the Lexus UX, Cadillac's XT4, and the Volvo XC40.