2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

History/Overview

Mercedes-Benz introduced the GLA-Class in 2015 as its then-new entry in a subcompact luxury crossover class that has since grown to become popular with consumers and profitable for automakers.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2021, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class enters its second generation with an all-new design.

Available Trims

Mercedes-Benz offers the GLA-Class in GLA 250, AMG GLA 35, and AMG GLA 45 trim levels. Common to all is a 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine, with each successive model getting more power and performance. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed transmission are standard in all trims.

Standard Features

GLA 250 comes with 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, aluminum roof rails, LED head- and taillights, rain-sensing wipers with heated washers, power-adjustable/heated front seats, automatic A/C, artico upholstery, heated/power side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview and driver’s side mirrors, 7.0-inch infotainment and driver info displays, and Bluetooth with audio streaming.

AMG GLA 35 trim brings sport-tuned exhaust, brake, suspension, and transmission shift systems. It also gets 19-inch wheels, AMG body styling, a Nappa leather sport steering wheel, sport seats, ambient interior lighting, artico/dinamica upholstery, power-folding side mirrors, 10.25-inch infotainment and driver info displays, and voice controls.

AMG GLA 45 gains leather upholstery.

Key Options

GLA 250 can be had with a sport pack that makes it look like its faster AMG counterparts.

A tech package adds upgraded headlights with automatic high beams and radar cruise control. The premium package brings the larger display screens, voice controls, a power tailgate, passive keyless entry, ambient cabin lighting, and smartphone integration with wireless charging. A navigation package brings that feature, plus other connected services.

An advanced driver assist pack contains safety features that lend the GLA-Class semi-autonomous driving capability.

AMG models can be ordered with a driver’s package with 20-inch wheels and more aggressive powertrain tuning; the AMG GLA 45 offers a track pack with a race drive mode and composite brakes.

Fuel Economy

Mercedes-Benz’s fuel consumption estimates for the GLA-Class are 9.8/7.2 L/100 km (city/highway) for the GLA 250, 10.4/8.1 L/100 km for AMG GLA 35 models, and 11.6/8.8 in AMG GLA 45 trim.

Competition

The GLA-Class faces competition primarily from its German counterparts, the BMW X1 and X2, and Audi Q3. But it also goes up against the Lexus UX, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Volvo XC40, and Cadillac XT4.