2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

header-image
Rating7.6
Write Review
$37,500 - $39,500
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on July 19, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Enthusiastic driving manner and aggressive acceleration.

Not as spacious as other rivals.

There are no significant changes expected for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and is expected to be a carryover.

Pleasant interior with two rows of comfortable seats.

For a premium SUV, there is too much road noise.

Part of the second GLA generation that was introduced in the year 2021.

User-friendly intuitive infotainment system.

The great majority of the GLA's sophisticated safety systems are optional.

Specs & Features

$37,500

price

221 hp @ 5500 rpm

horsepower

258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

torque

8-speed Auto-Shift Manual

transmission

2.0L 4cyl FWD 8AM

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Even a compact Mercedes-Benz goes big on luxury so if you are thinking of buying a new SUV and your budget is $40,000 then the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class SUV will be one of the most preferable choices to recommend in this class. Since its second generation, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is a significant upgrade over its somewhat subpar predecessor. Furthermore, it offers a suite of safety features, user-friendly technology, agile handling, and stylish design making the Mercedes a dreamy proposition.

Buying Advice

We would recommend the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic variant offers more than just all-wheel drive. The Off-Road engineering package from Mercedes, which offers an off-road driving mode with reduced throttle response and power delivery are standard on that model. In some circumstances, like plowing through deep snow, some drivers could find it helpful. We believe that the Premium option is essential since it includes the bigger 10.3-inch digital gauge display and 10.3-inch infotainment screen.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Mercedes is bringing back the GLA-Class as a carryover model for the model year 2023 since this little SUV had a makeover in 2021, thus it should mostly remain unchanged. There are two models offered in the GLA-Class the GLA 250 SUV, and the GLA 250 4Matic SUV while it is expected that it will continue to have the same pricing range as the current model offered on sale, the base trim starts at an MSRP of $36,400 that can go up to a maximum of $38,400. In this segment, it will always continue to compete against the likes of the Lexus NX 250, the Audi Q5, and the BMW X1.

Features
8.0/10

The Mercedes-Benz is a compact crossover SUV the GLA is offered in GLA 250 and GLA 250 4Matic SUV specification levels while the base trim comes standard with an FWD drivetrain whereas an optional AWD drivetrain is also available. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is expected to be a carryover model despite this, there are still many benefits to this vehicle, thus it shouldn't be disregarded. The base trim offers a suite of standard specifications and features including Aluminum roof rails, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps and taillamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, heated power side mirrors, 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, a power liftgate, and remote engine start.

Trims

GLA 250

GLA 250 4Matic

MSRP

$36,400 

$38,400

Key Features

18-inch alloy wheels

Add to or upgrade from GLA 250 trim

40/20/40-split folding/reclining rear seats

Off-Road engineering package

Heated power side mirrors

4MATIC all-wheel drive

7-inch digital instrument cluster

Downhill speed regulation (DSR)

Steering-wheel touch control buttons

4-wheel Electronic traction system (4-ETS)

Heightened style, wide-ranging appeal

Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX)

Rear-window wiper with auto-on in Reverse

Antitheft alarm system with remote panic feature

Since it is a carryover model the Mercedes Benz GLA is expected to have the same package options as the Mercedes GLA for sale which is as follows

AMG Line with Night Package @ $2,740 MSRP

  • 19-inch AMG twin 5-spoke wheels w/black accents.
  • Gloss Black exterior accent.
  • Brushed stainless steel pedals.
  • Chrome diamond-block grille.
  • Aluminum shift paddles.
  • Sport front seats and Sports steering wheel.

Premium Package @ $1,850 MSRP

  • 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display.
  • Auto-dimming driver-side and inside rearview mirrors.
  • Household-type 115V power outlet.
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster display.
  • Power-folding side mirrors.

Driver Assistance Package @ $1,700 MSRP

  • Active brake assist with Cross-Traffic function.
  • Active Distance Assist Distronic. 
  • Active emergency stop assist.

We Recommend

We would recommend the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic variant offers more than just all-wheel drive. The Off-Road engineering package from Mercedes, which offers an off-road driving mode with reduced throttle response and power delivery are standard on that model. In some circumstances, like plowing through deep snow, some drivers could find it helpful. We believe that the Premium option is essential since it includes the bigger 10.3-inch digital gauge display and 10.3-inch infotainment screen.

Release Date

It is unknown when the 2023 small SUV will be on sale because Mercedes has not provided a manufacturing schedule.

Fuel Economy
7.4/10

Since the Mercedes-Benz GLA is a carryover model and it is expected to have the same EPA estimates which provide a fuel efficiency of 24 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and 28 MPG combined. On the other hand, the AWD drivetrain offered on the GLA 250 4Matic offers a mileage of 23 MPG in the city, 32 MPG on the highway, and 26 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class offers a fuel tank capacity of 12.7 gallons.

Model

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

2022 Lexus NX 250

2022 Audi Q5

2022 BMW X1

MPG 

(City)

24 MPG

26 MPG

23 MPG

24 MPG

MPG (Highway)

34 MPG

33 MPG

29 MPG

33 MPG

MPG (Combined)

28 MPG

28 MPG

25 MPG

27 MPG

Fuel Tank Capacity

(Gallons)

12.7 gallons

14.5 gallons

18.5 gallons

16.1 gallons

Range, City/Highway/ Combined

(Miles)

304.8 / 431.8 / 355.6

377 / 478.5 / 406

425.5 / 536.5 / 462.5

386.4 / 531.3 / 434.7

The Lexus NX 250 offers a much better mileage of 26 MPG in the city, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has a better mileage of 34 MPG on the highway, while they both have an equal mileage of 28 MPG combined. On the other hand, the 2022 Audi Q5 outperforms its adversaries with a bigger fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons. Furthermore, the Lexus NX 250 2022 offers a range of 537 miles on the highway giving a hassle-free ride without worrying about refilling it at a gas station. While comparing the statistics, we can say that the Lexus NX 250 2022 has a much better fuel economy when compared to its competitors. 

Interior
7.4/10

The inside of the Mercedes-Benz GLA features a variable level of quality, including some remarkable materials and some low-grade surfaces. Even in relatively confined spaces, getting into and out of the GLA is simple because of the riding height and logically proportioned doors. With no sacrifice, you may choose between a more upright or reclined posture in the driver's seat thanks to its extensive adjustment ranges. Five passengers may be accommodated in the Mercedes-Benz GLA, and both rows offer plenty of room and comfort. The eight-way power-adjustable front seats with memory settings are included, as is a steering wheel coated in leather.

The trunk's storage capacity has risen compared to the previous model, and the back seats can be folded flat. The cargo floor is now level with the sill, which should make loading and unloading larger things into the trunk simpler. The cabin is wide enough for everyone to spread out comfortably in the front seats, and there is also a surprising amount of headroom and legroom.

Model

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

2022 Lexus NX 250

2022 Audi Q5

2022 BMW X1

Passenger Capacity

5

5

5

5

First Row (Head/ Shoulder/ Legroom)

(inches)

40.8 / 55.9 / 41.1

38.3 / 56.3 / 41

39.6 / 57.7 / 40.9

41.9 / 55.6 / 40.4

Second Row (Head/ Shoulder/ Legroom)

(inches)

38.1 / 54.8 / 38.4


 

38.5 / 54 / 36.1


 

39.3 / 56.5 / 38


 

39.4 / 55.2 / 37

Cargo capacity to the third row (cu-ft)

15.4 cu-ft

22.7 cu-ft

25.9 cu-ft

27.1 cu-ft

Cargo capacity to the second row (cu-ft)

15.4 cu-ft

22.7 cu-ft

25.9 cu-ft

27.1 cu-ft

Cargo capacity to the first row (cu-ft)

50.5 cu-ft

46.9 cu-ft

54.1 cu-ft

58.7 cu-ft

The BMW X1 has a 27.1 cu-ft of room behind the rear seats while the space behind the front seats expands to 58.7 cu-ft when you fold them down. The inside of the BMW X1 is superior to that of the typical subcompact SUV from a mainstream manufacturer, although its primary competitors from Audi and Mercedes-Benz are more opulent.

Some of its key interior features include

  • Power front seats with 3-position memory.
  • 40/20/40-split folding/reclining rear seats.
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control.
  • High-style, high-tech cabin.
  • 4-way manually adjustable steering column.
  • MB-Tex upholstery

How intuitive is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Infotainment system?

The GLA receives good accolades for its infotainment system and smartphone connection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. One of the simplest systems to operate, Mercedes' MBUX system offers a variety of control options while the voice instructions are precise but can take some time to interpret. Two 7.0-inch screens are standard on base versions, one for the infotainment system and one for the driver's gauge display while GPS, SiriusXM satellite radio, a head-up display, and a Burmester premium audio system are all options, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Some of its standard key infotainment features include

  • 7-inch digital instrument cluster.
  • 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display.
  • Steering-wheel Touch Control Buttons.
  • Four USB-C ports.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration.
  • Hands-free Bluetooth interface.

Exterior
7.4/10

The 2023 GLA-Class features a stylish appearance that includes a grille that is divided horizontally with a chrome bar, raised lines on the hood, and chrome inserts on the bumpers. The bodyside cladding, wheel wells, and rear bumper are all black. Mercedes even on its entry-level model successfully incorporates aircraft design throughout. The Mercedes tri-star is positioned in the middle of the GLA's face, while two wings span the mesh grille. It has the appearance of a hot hatch but in a higher riding vehicle while it has a sporty-sophisticated appearance. It is shorter in length and about four inches higher than the original to be even more agile. 

Model

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

2022 Lexus NX 250

2022 Audi Q5

2022 BMW X1

Curb Weight (lbs)

3,494 lbs

3,660 lbs

4,101 lbs

3,567 lbs

Length (inches)

173.6 inches

183.5 inches

184.3 inches

175.5 inches

Width, with mirrors

(inches)

72.2 inches

73.4 inches

74.5 inches

71.7 inches

Height

(inches)

63.5 inches

65.8 inches

65.5 inches

62.9 inches

Ground Clearance (inches)

NA

7.7 inches

8.2 inches

7.2 inches

Wheelbase (inches)

107.4 inches

105.9 inches

111-inch

105.1 inches

Front Track Width (inches)

63.2 inches

63.2 inches

63.6 inches

61.5 inches

Rear Track Width (inches)

63.2 inches

64-inch

63.3 inches

61.6 inches

The 2022 Audi Q5 has a much better wheelbase size measuring 111-inch which increases riding comfort and stability, especially at higher speeds it also offers more storage capacity and overall space between the axles so you feel fewer bumps. It also hosts a much better track width measuring 63.6 and 63.3 inches at the front and the rear which helps make the automobile more stable and decrease understeer. However, it compensates with its sheer curb weight of 4,101 lbs.

Some of its key exterior features include

  • Heightened style and wide-ranging appeal.
  • Aluminum roof rails.
  • Chrome load sill guard.
  • 18-inch wheels.
  • LED headlamps and taillamps.
  • LED front foglamps.

Safety

Mercedes equipped the 2023 GLA with an abundance of safety features, as expected. The list of features that are both standard and optional includes day/night and auto-dimming rearview mirrors, cruise control, the eCall Emergency System, Active Emergency Stop Assist, automatic active parking assist, rain-detecting windshield wipers, and a tracker system in case the car is stolen. Neither the NHTSA nor IIHS has rated the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

Some of its key safety features include

  • Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call service.
  • Blind spot assist.
  • Rearview camera.
  • 7 airbags.
  • Electronic stability program (ESP)
  • Antitheft alarm system with the remote panic feature.

Competition

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs 2022 Lexus NX 250

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is an alternative type of SUV with a roomy interior and storage capacity, ensuring that this fast SUV is also a highly useful vehicle. The Lexus NX 250 is a stylish SUV crossover that has a bit more ground clearance than the majority of other SUVs in this class. The GLA 250 draws attention anyplace young with sporting excellent looks and a sophisticated interior, whereas the 2022 NX 250's cabin has inferior materials that reduce the luxury sense of this automobile. The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is unquestionably a superior option as it has a lot of technology as standard and provides a ride that is noticeably better than the Lexus NX 250.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs 2022 Audi Q5

Although the Mercedes GLA is a fantastic vehicle, the Audi Q5 is just superior. The interior design, in particular, is the single area where the GLA outperforms the Audi Q5, although this is a matter of personal preference. The Q5, on the other hand, is larger, more appealing, more expensive, comfier, and more capacious. Additionally, it provides a more in-control driving stance with an improved all-around view. The Audi Q5 is unquestionably a superior vehicle if you can get one with a reasonable level of options for a reasonable price.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs 2022 BMW X1

One of the best premium subcompact SUVs is the BMW X1. It achieves that distinction in part because of its spacious cargo area and agile handling, as well as features that the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class also offers: a large second row, user-friendly electronics, and quick acceleration. The basic pricing of these rival crossovers is comparable, but the X1 lacks any more potent engine choices. 

Final Verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a $37,000 subcompact SUV with all the amenities that first-time luxury buyers expect, although the GLA provides a tonne of technology as an option, the cost can easily increase. Despite the fact that some rivals are more enjoyable to drive, the GLA stands out in the premium market because of its sophisticated appearance and convenient features.

Trims

    GLA 250
    $37,500 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl FWD 8AM
    • Horsepower: 221 hp @ 5500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.77 sec
    • Top Speed: 130 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 28 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$33,300- $39,500

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.6

Horsepower

221 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque

258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$36,600- $38,600

Gasoline

7.65

241 hp @ 4500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$45,000- $55,300

Gasoline

6.5

246 hp @ 5500 rpm

269 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$36,800- $42,500

Gasoline

6.6

184 hp @ 4800 rpm

221 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm

5

Read Review

$48,000

Gasoline

7.09

246 hp @ 5500 rpm

269 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$38,600

Gasoline

7.03

241 hp @ 4500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$36,295- $43,295

Gasoline

6.67

235 hp @ 5000 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.77 sec-130 mph
    2023 BMW X1

    Ranked #1

    5.7 sec14.4 sec149 mph
    2023 BMW X2

    Ranked #2

    6.6 sec15.1 sec130 mph
    7 sec14.8 sec143 mph
    7.2 sec15.6 sec135 mph
    7.7 sec--

    2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      24 mpg34 mpg28 mpg12.7 gal.317.5/431.8 mi.
      2023 BMW X1

      Ranked #1

      25 mpg34 mpg28 mpg14.3 gal.357.5/486.2 mi.
      2023 BMW X2

      Ranked #2

      24 mpg32 mpg27 mpg16.1 gal.-
      23 mpg30 mpg26 mpg15.9 gal.365.7/477 mi.
      2023 Audi Q3

      Ranked #4

      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg15.9 gal.349.8/461.1 mi.
      20 mpg26 mpg23 mpg17.7 gal.354/460.2 mi.

      2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        173.6 in.72.2 in.63.5 in.-107.4 in. -
        181.1 in.76.7 in.63.2 in.6.7 in.109.4 in. -
        2023 BMW X1

        Ranked #2

        177.2 in.72.6 in.64.6 in.8.1 in.106 in. -
        2023 Audi Q3

        Ranked #3

        176.6 in.72.8 in.62.9 in.-105.5 in. -
        173 in.74.7 in.64.9 in.8.8 in.105.6 in. -
        2023 BMW X2

        Ranked #6

        172.2 in.71.8 in.60.1 in.7.2 in.105.1 in. -

        2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          15.4 cu.ft.-50.5 cu.ft.
          2023 BMW X1

          Ranked #1

          25.7 cu.ft.101.2 cu.ft.57.2 cu.ft.
          21.6 cu.ft.-50.5 cu.ft.
          2023 BMW X2

          Ranked #3

          21.6 cu.ft.94.1 cu.ft.50.1 cu.ft.
          22.4 cu.ft.-49.5 cu.ft.
          22.5 cu.ft.100.6 cu.ft.48.9 cu.ft.

          2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            SourceCompare
            50.5 cu.ft.15.4 cu.ft.50.5 cu.ft.
            2023 Audi Q3

            Ranked #2

            48 cu.ft.23.7 cu.ft.48 cu.ft.
            50.5 cu.ft.21.6 cu.ft.50.5 cu.ft.
            2023 BMW X1

            Ranked #4

            57.2 cu.ft.25.7 cu.ft.57.2 cu.ft.
            2023 BMW X2

            Ranked #5

            50.1 cu.ft.21.6 cu.ft.50.1 cu.ft.
            49.5 cu.ft.22.4 cu.ft.49.5 cu.ft.

            2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1500 lbs.1114 lbs.3494 lbs.
              2023 Audi Q3

              Ranked #1

              4400 lbs.1091 lbs.3902 lbs.
              3968 lbs.1325 lbs.3935 lbs.
              3968 lbs.1430 lbs.3925 lbs.
              3500 lbs.1300 lbs.3660 lbs.
              2023 BMW X1

              Ranked #4

              3499 lbs.994 lbs.3750 lbs.

              Top Mercedes-Benz Cars

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 16 mpg

              0-60 : 4.24 sec

              #1

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S Coupe

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.91 sec

              #2

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 S

              Horsepower : 603 hp @ 5750 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 3.3 sec

              #3

              2023 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class

              Horsepower : 496 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 4.7 sec

              #4

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53

              Horsepower : 429 hp @ 6100 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 5.1 sec

              #5

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 Coupe

              Horsepower : 429 hp @ 6100 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 4.86 sec

              #6

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53

              Horsepower : 429 hp @ 6100 rpm

              MPG Combined : 24 mpg

              0-60 : 3.9 sec

              #7

              2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 53

              Horsepower : 429 hp @ 6100 rpm

              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 4.1 sec

              #8

              2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

              Horsepower : 429 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 23 mpg

              0-60 : 4.7 sec

              #9

              2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

              Horsepower : 416 hp @ 5250 rpm

              MPG Combined : 14 mpg

              0-60 : 5.4 sec

              #10