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Mercedes-Benz GLA 2024 review

SUV Petrol

Mercedes-Benz GLA 2024 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is the entry point to the three-pointed star's SUV range, and for many UK buyers it is the perfect first step into premium motoring. Based on the same platform as the A-Class, it wraps compact-car practicality in a taller, more commanding body with a genuinely luxurious cabin. The GLA 200 petrol, with its 1.3-litre turbo making 163PS, suits town and suburban driving perfectly, while the GLA 220 d diesel is the pick for longer journeys with its relaxed gait and strong economy. Mercedes' MBUX twin-screen setup remains one of the slickest infotainment systems in the class, and the interior trim quality shames mainstream rivals. Boot space of 435 litres is respectable rather than class-leading, and rear legroom is fine for adults on shorter trips. Rivals such as the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Range Rover Evoque all offer their own charms, but few match the GLA's sense of occasion at this price. It is ideal for buyers who want the badge, the tech and the comfort without stepping up to a much larger car.

UK price from: £38,000

Specifications

Engine	1.3 turbo petrol
Power	163PS
0-60 mph	8.7 seconds
Top speed	130mph
Fuel economy	39.8mpg
CO2	161g/km
Boot space	435 litres
Length	4,410mm
Transmission	7-speed DCT auto
Drive	Front-wheel drive

Features

MBUX dual 10.25-inch widescreen displays
Hey Mercedes voice assistant
Active Brake Assist
Reversing camera
Artico man-made leather upholstery
LED High Performance headlights
Power tailgate
Wireless smartphone integration

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads	£74.99	Fits GLA 200; wear sensor included
Oil filter	£11.99	Spin-on filter for 1.3 turbo
Air filter	£17.99	Panel filter, replace at 20k miles
Wiper blades (pair)	£22.99	26in/19in aero fitment
12V battery	£139.99	EFB type for mild-hybrid stop-start
Number plate bulb set	£7.99	LED upgrade bulbs, road legal

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

Genuinely luxurious interior
Slick MBUX infotainment
Comfortable and easy to drive
Strong brand appeal and residuals

Cons

Boot is smaller than key rivals
Rear space is tight for tall adults
Some cheap-feeling lower plastics
Diesel costs more to buy

Frequently asked questions

Is the Mercedes GLA a good family car?

The GLA works well for small families, with easy child-seat access and a 435-litre boot that copes with a pushchair. Taller teenagers may find rear legroom tight, so larger families should look at the GLB or GLC instead.

Is the GLA 200 powerful enough?

The 163PS 1.3 turbo in the GLA 200 feels perfectly adequate around town and on A-roads, with 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds. It only feels strained when fully loaded on steep motorway inclines.

What is MBUX?

MBUX is Mercedes' infotainment system with twin widescreen displays, Hey Mercedes voice control and over-the-air updates. It is one of the slickest systems in the class and a highlight of the GLA's cabin.

Petrol or diesel GLA?

The GLA 200 petrol suits most buyers with its lower price and refined town manners. Pick the GLA 220 d diesel only if you regularly cover long distances, where its economy and relaxed cruising pay off.