A budget Benz? That hasn't worked out well for the luxury automaker in the past (see: C 230 Kompressor). But the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA is different. Based on a platform used to build small cars for Europe, the GLA combines performance and Mercedes luxury at the price of an average family sedan.

The GLA 250 starts with a 208-horsepower four-cylinder engine and adds standard features such as a power liftgate, a folding seatback with a center pass-through, and three performance modes that optimize engine and transmission settings for different conditions. Front-wheel drive is standard and an available all-wheel-drive model (GLA 250 4Matic) adds some off-road-specific functions.

Infotainment includes an 8-inch display and Bluetooth, with the option of adding navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot (the latter through a subscription service). You'll also need to check the options boxes if you want driver aids such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

Most Benzes lean toward stately power and control, but the GLA is one of the more fun and raucous models in the Mercedes lineup. This is especially true of the AMG GLA 45 top trim, which offers 375 hp, standard all-wheel drive and performance on another level compared to its rivals.

But a new "budget Benz" isn't without compromise. The GLA rides rougher than a traditional Mercedes, and there's a general dearth of headroom, legroom and cargo space. The GLA 250's transmission also isn't very smooth and responds slowly to requests for more power. A high price relative to the GLA's competitors doesn't help either. Similar BMW and Audi models, while not much roomier, offer more refinement for the same price or less.

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class configurations

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA is offered in three trim levels: GLA 250, GLA 250 4Matic and AMG GLA 45. The GLA 250 comes with a 208-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a decent features list that includes power-adjustable front seats, a power liftgate, Bluetooth and a 7-inch central display. The GLA 250 4Matic version adds all-wheel drive and hill descent control. The AMG GLA 45 shares the same basic feature set but with a more powerful engine and other high-performance upgrades.

The GLA 250 starts with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (208 hp, 258 pound-feet of torque), a seven-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Key standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, power-adjustable driver's seat, three performance driving modes, imitation-leather upholstery, and a 60/40-split folding rear seatback with a center pass-through.

Tech features include an 8-inch central display with a dial-and-button control array, Bluetooth and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an SD card reader and two USB ports. Certain features of Mercedes' Mbrace telematics system (including a Wi-Fi hotspot and concierge services) are available on a subscription basis.

The all-wheel-drive GLA 250 4Matic model adds some all-weather and light off-road capability with hill descent control and an off-road status monitor that analyzes steering angle, tilt angle and grade percentage.

Several option packages are available for the GLA 250. The Premium package bundles blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats, and hands-free liftgate open and close. The Multimedia package includes a navigation system, voice controls, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and real-time satellite traffic and weather information.

Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are available in the Driver Assistance package, and a new Parking Assistance package adds a surround-view camera and a self-parking system.

The AMG Line Exterior package offers a high-performance look with 19-inch AMG wheels, AMG body styling and a black headliner. The Night package further enhances this look with black wheels, trim and side mirror caps.

Stand-alone options include several package items — blind-spot monitoring, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats, for example — as well as upgrades that include a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, leather upholstery, ambient cabin lighting and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The AMG GLA 45 comes with all-wheel drive and the GLA 250's standard features, but with significantly more power (375 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque) from the same engine. It's further distinguished with 19-inch wheels, a sport exhaust, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded brakes, LED headlights, and a power passenger seat. The GLA 45's options largely mirror those of the GLA 250, but there are a couple of exclusive additions.

The AMG Dynamic Plus package includes adaptive dampers, a limited-slip differential, a Race driving mode and a higher top speed. The AMG Aerodynamics package offers a gloss-black rear spoiler and body kit. A handful of other packages offer aesthetic enhancements inside and out.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | AWD).

Driving

8.0

The GLA 250 uniquely blends straight-line performance and sharp handling with an elevated ground clearance for rutted roads or the occasional field you might drive through. It's like a powerful Subaru XV Crosstrek. Unfortunately, the throttle and transmission don't respond as quickly as we'd like.

Acceleration

8.0

The GLA made the 0-60 mph sprint in 6.8 seconds, which is much quicker than an Audi Q3 and about equal to slightly larger luxury SUVs. The 208-hp turbo four-cylinder feels energetic, but acceleration around town is hampered by the sluggish throttle and transmission.

Braking

8.5

The SUV came to a stop from 60 mph in 105 feet, which is excellent even for a vehicle with summer tires. After repeated stops, distances stayed short, but pedal response diminished.

Steering

8.5

The GLA's steering is nicely weighted whether driving around town or being pushed on a mountain road. It errs on the lighter side, but it's precise and linear with sharp turn-in. You can feel the road through the steering wheel.

Handling

9.0

The GLA doesn't handle like an SUV. It feels more like a nimble hatchback, thanks to well-managed body lean, plenty of tire grip and a well-tuned stability control system. There's less tugging on the steering wheel in the all-wheel-drive GLA 45.

Drivability

5.0

Severe gas pedal lag in the default E mode along with a slow-to-engage seven-speed transmission equals a car that is frustrating to drive at low speeds. Selecting S or manual mode is slightly better, but these are reasons to avoid this car.

Off-road

8.0

Eight inches of ground clearance is more than most small SUVs or hatchbacks have. All-wheel drive includes hill descent control, an off-road transmission mode and special COMAND displays (wheel angle and compass). AWD sends up to 50 percent of torque to rear wheels.

Comfort

6.5

The GLA's suspension, wheels and tires send far more impact harshness into the cabin during around-town driving than we've come to expect from luxury cars. The poor ride quality is a big reason why the GLA fails to earn a higher rating.

Seat comfort

7.5

The GLA's seats offer nice side bolstering and, despite being quite cushy, provide good long-distance support. Mercedes' MB-Tex faux leather looks and feels like the real thing and breathes decently. The driver's seat could use more thigh support.

Ride comfort

5.0

The GLA is flat-out unpleasant in a city filled with potholes, expansion joints and uneven concrete pavement. Low speeds are not its friend, but as speeds rise, the highway ride is well-damped and comfortable over distances.

Noise & vibration

7.0

There's some elevated wind noise around the large side mirrors. The GLA certainly isn't the usual Mercedes vault, but it nevertheless has the sort of serenity expected of a luxury-branded car.

Interior

6.5

Though we appreciate Mercedes' intuitive COMAND electronics interface, the GLA's interior is otherwise compromised functionally. Space and visibility are the same as in a compact hatchback, but you're paying a price that's closer to that of a luxury compact SUV.

Ease of use

8.5

The GLA's interior is deceptively simple and remarkably easy to use, with a large infotainment screen, clear gauges, and an easy knob- and button-based climate control system. The gear-selector stalk is a love-it-or-hate-it item.

Getting in/getting out

7.0

If you struggle with the climb up into an SUV's higher seat, the GLA's lower stance may appeal to you. The lower height means loading kids in the back is similar to loading them in a car.

Roominess

5.5

The back seat has minimal legroom compared to an SUV's, and the optional panoramic sunroof significantly hinders headroom. The rear seat doesn't recline or slide. Tall occupants up front may feel as if their heads are up against the ceiling.

Visibility

5.5

If you're looking for that tall, commanding view indicative of an SUV, look elsewhere. The GLA's seating position is low, the windshield pillars are aggressively raked, and the rear quarter view is compromised. Good thing a rearview camera comes standard.

Quality

6.5

Everything you touch — stalks, switches and steering wheel — comes from Mercedes' high-quality parts bin. Yet the trim pieces are harder and more plastic-feeling than in other Mercedes models and similarly priced SUVs.

Utility

It might look like an active lifestyle car or play one on TV, but you can't pack a lot of activity into the GLA. The tidy cargo space can accommodate a couple pieces of luggage or outdoor gear, and with all-wheel drive you could wheel to a remote camping site but pack wisely.

Technology

There's a decent bit of tech even at the base level, including an 8-inch display, Bluetooth, a six-speaker sound system, and a five-year trial of Mbrace Connect telematics services, which includes an optional Wi-Fi hotspot. Satellite radio, navigation and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system are options.

Audio & navigation

Voice-controlled navigation comes in the optional Multimedia package. There's also an optional Garmin Map Pilot SD card-based system. A six-speaker sound system is standard; a 12-speaker Harman Kardon upgrade is optional.

Smartphone integration

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered as part of the optional Multimedia package.

Driver aids

The most common driver aids are offered but they're tied up in different option bundles. A rearview camera and automatic emergency braking are standard, but blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise and parking assist come in separate packages.

Voice control

Navigation with voice control comes with the Multimedia package, which also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto platforms for voice commands.

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$53,350

MPG

22 city / 28 hwy

Seats 5

7-speed automated manual

Gas

375 hp @ 6000 rpm

See all 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite GLA-Class safety features:

Active Brake Assist: Uses radar to detect vehicles and objects ahead and applies automated braking if necessary.
Distance Pilot Distronic: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead of you when the cruise control is set on the highway.
Lane Keeping Assist: Monitors road markings and helps detect unintended lane drifting. Alerts driver by vibrating the steering wheel.

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Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs. the competition

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Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs. BMW X1

BMW, Mercedes' traditional rival in every class, offers its compelling subcompact X1 with a strong, responsive turbocharged engine and sharp handling to challenge the GLA. And like the GLA, the X1 rides atop a sport-type suspension that isn't especially smooth or particularly quiet. The X1 beats out the GLA for overall passenger space and cargo room, which is something to consider if you'll be regularly driving more than yourself and a front passenger. If you seek high performance, however, the Mercedes is the only choice. The X1 offers nothing that comes close to the AMG GLA 45.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class & BMW X1 features

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs. Audi Q3

The GLA has its work cut out for it with the new Q3, which has been redesigned with much-needed updates. The Q3's infotainment system is fully updated (now, finally, with USB ports) and includes a 10-inch display and a Wi-Fi connection. The Q3 has also grown a bit. It's just 3 inches, but it's enough to add room in the formerly cramped rear seat as well as some extra cargo space. There's also now a more powerful turbo four-cylinder engine and suspension changes that promise a smoother ride, perhaps even smoother than the GLA's. We'll need to wait until a full test to find out.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class & Audi Q3 features

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs. Lexus UX

The UX is the newest entry to the luxury subcompact class. Like its German rivals, the UX distills its brand's traditional standards into a small package. Loaded with style and several standard features that are optional on other models (leather upholstery, for example), the UX makes a good alternative to the sportier nature of the Audi, BMW and Mercedes. That said, the UX drives and handles with more athleticism than most Lexus models, especially (and ironically) the available hybrid model. The hybrid model itself gives the UX an edge in this class since no one else offers one, and we think it's actually the best UX to buy.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class & Lexus UX features

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More about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA proves that even Mercedes isn't immune to temptation. With the market for compact crossover SUVs exploding, and the thirst for prestige brands growing as well, Mercedes needed an entry in the compact crossover niche, so the GLA was born.

The "A" in GLA indicates that this is a member of Mercedes' smallest-size class. And it hints, accurately, that much of the GLA's engineering is shared with the smallest four-door the company sells in the United States, the CLA sedan.

Budget-friendliness may be an odd concept for American Mercedes buyers, but the company has contended in many smaller vehicle classes in Europe and elsewhere for decades. The GLA still carries hints of Mercedes overengineering even if it doesn't show up on the bottom line of the window sticker. Well, at least before options are added.

Shaped something like a well-worn Converse Chuck Taylor, the GLA possesses familiar Mercedes styling cues, including a giant three-pointed star in the middle of its grille. Unfortunately, those floppy-shoe stylings cover a relatively tiny passenger compartment. Headroom, legroom and shoulder room are all tightly limited. And cargo room sits between not-very-much and negligible.

The GLA comes in two distinct models. The one that's advertised with a low, Honda-like starting price is the GLA 250, powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at a modest 208 horsepower that drives the front wheels through a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. A version of Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is also available.

Well above the GLA 250 is the AMG GLA 45 that comes from Mercedes' in-house tuning shop. Using the same basic engine but with the turbo wick turned to "insane," the 2.0-liter four slams out an astonishing 355 hp. It's enough, Mercedes says, to rocket the all-wheel-drive AMG GLA 45 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. It's louder and ruder than the GLA 250, and the suspension can be punishingly stiff. But if having the quickest small crossover matters to you, here it is.

Both GLAs handle well and ride firm. The expected Mercedes refinement simply isn't there, but fuel economy is about average. The basic GLA 250 is EPA-rated at 29 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway). The AMG GLA 45 knocks out 26 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).

Making sense of the subcompact crossover market is tough, but you can count on Edmunds to clear things up for you and get you a great deal.

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 Overview

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 is offered in the following styles: AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM).

What do people think of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 GLA-Class AMG GLA 45.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 featuring deep dives into trim levels including AMG GLA 45, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Read our full review of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 here.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 and all available trim types: AMG GLA 45. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45

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Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class configurations

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Features & Specs

Safety

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2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 for Sale

Get more for your trade-in

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 Overview

What do people think of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45?

Which 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45s are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

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Should I lease or buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?

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