We're glad the GLA 45 exists because it's proof that manufacturers can still make vehicles that are a little bit crazy. With 382 horsepower, sticky tires, powerful brakes and agile handling, this GLA is a genuine thrill machine. But all that awesome will cost you.Read full review
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
GLA 250's smooth ride and comfortable seats
Features one of today's best, most advanced infotainment systems
Mercedes badge at an affordable price
Exciting performance from the AMG GLA 45 model
Cons
Most of the GLA's advanced safety features are optional
Too much road noise for a luxury SUV
Cargo capacity is small compared to the Mercedes GLB
AMG GLA 45 ride quality may be too stiff for some buyers
What's new
Dashcam no longer available for AMG trims
Part of the second GLA generation introduced for 2021
Overview
Buyers seeking a starter Mercedes will find plenty to like in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA. For one thing, it starts at less than $40,000. Second, it's an SUV — sort of. The GLA is based on the A-Class sedan but stands a little taller with fake skid plates, gray body cladding and optional all-wheel drive. It has a higher ride height and larger cargo area than the sedan, but similar coupe-like style with its tapering roofline. If you push your budget a little farther, you can add Mercedes' advanced gauge cluster display, larger central touchscreen and a premium sound system.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.86 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
So is it an SUV or just a high-riding hatchback version of the A-Class? It doesn't matter. It delivers traditional Benz goodness — soft, compliant ride, excellent interior fit and finish, advanced in-car and infotainment tech — in a stylish compact package at a reasonable price. If this diminutive Benz doesn't push your buttons, there are several alternatives including the more cargo-friendly Audi Q3, more romping BMX X2 or the stylish Jaguar E-Pace. The Lexus UX and Volvo XC40 are also worthy options. Among these rivals, only the BMW offers a performance-tuned variant that can match the AMG-tuned versions of the GLA. If the GLA sounds like a good fit, be sure to read our Expert Rating below.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
We're glad the GLA 45 exists because it's proof that manufacturers can still make vehicles that are a little bit crazy. With 382 horsepower, sticky tires, powerful brakes and agile handling, this GLA is a genuine thrill machine. But all that awesome will cost you.
How does the AMG GLA 45 drive? Our test AMG GLA 45 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds at Edmunds' test track. Sticky summer tires, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, an adaptive suspension and powerful brakes ensure the GLA has the grip, handling chops and stopping power to match too. It feels eager to be pushed and engaging. This is less SUV, more curve-devouring hatchback.
The transmission tuning is our main disappointment. While crisp and responsive under spirited driving, shifting can be clunky and unrefined in most other scenarios. We found it mildly frustrating in daily driving.
Comfort
6.5/10
How comfortable is the AMG GLA 45? While most performance vehicles have to trade away comfort to some degree, we think the GLA 45 gives up a little too much. The biggest offense here is the ride quality. It didn't help the case that our test car came with the optional 21-inch wheels, which likely exacerbated the effect of a stiffer performance suspension.
Our second biggest complaint was the level of road noise permeating the cabin. It would be difficult to hold a conversation at normal speaking volumes on anything less than a smooth road surface. Also, the front seats can start to get uncomfortable after a couple of hours. They could provide more support during spirited driving too. Optional performance seats are available but weren't equipped on our car.
At least the dual-zone climate control is easy to use and keeps the cabin at comfortable temperatures.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? The ride height and sensibly shaped doors make it easy to get in and out of the GLA even in very tight spots. The wide adjustment range for the driver's seat and steering column should allow for most drivers to find their ideal seating position.
The Mercedes MBUX interface remains an example of how to do it right because it provides so many options for control. The primary controls are logically placed and easy to locate. You can also control much of what's on the screen by touchpad, touchscreen, steering wheel thumbpads or voice.
The cabin is surprisingly spacious and airy considering the GLA's sleeker profile. There's plenty of adult-sized space in the rear, with generous amounts of leg- and headroom. Visibility is another characteristic that we didn't expect would be good, but it is despite the GLA's body shape. The view out of the front as well as to the sides and rear is pretty unobstructed. An optional 360-degree view camera is available, though we didn't have one, and for the most part didn't need it.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $8,069 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,069 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG GLA 45 trim.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 pricing in Ashburn, VA
How’s the tech? The GLA sports some great tech features. What we like best is the onboard navigation, which is one of the best systems on the market. Mercedes' MBUX system is one of the easiest systems to use thanks to its many control options (touchscreen, trackpad, voice control and steering-wheel thumb controllers), and the voice commands are also top-notch. There are also an abundance of charging options for devices of both front and rear passengers.
The GLA, however, stumbles in the execution of its advanced driving aids. Mercedes usually does a good job in this area, but we found the lane keeping assistance less than useful. Adaptive cruise was also a bit too clever for its own good with all its predictive speed functions turned on (it slowed unhelpfully at unexpected times) so we had to disable those as well.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? Cargo capacity behind the rear seats is only 15.4 cubic feet, which is more in line with what we expect from a midsize sedan. It's accommodating but small compared to the cargo areas in the same SUV size class. The low liftover height does make loading heavy objects easier.
There are moderately sized bins and pockets for your small items. The cupholders feature some nifty spring-loaded tabs to better secure smaller beverages. A rubberized tray also does a good job of keeping your smartphone from sliding around. It also serves as a wireless charging pad if you pick that option. Need to install a child seat? There's a decent amount of space back there that should accommodate even a larger rear-facing infant seat without compromising front passenger space too much. The car seat tether and anchor points are easy to locate and access.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How economical is the AMG GLA 45? The GLA 45's four-cylinder is about as high-strung as they come, but it returned decent economy during our time with it. We got 22.9 mpg on our real-world evaluation route. That tells us that as long as you're not heavy-footed, matching its EPA estimate of 22 mpg combined (20 city/25 highway) should be achievable. Though there's nothing really to compare it against directly, we'd consider this decent efficiency for the level of performance.
Value
7/10
Is the AMG GLA 45 a good value? The GLA 45's as-new base starting price is somewhat reasonable, but by the time you add some options the value becomes questionable. The GLA just doesn't offer the versatility we'd expect for what it costs. As for build quality, the interior feels solid, but aspects of the cabin, including plastic pieces and cheaper-looking leather, fail to provide a wholly convincing picture of luxury.
The warranty is typical, with four years/50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage. Roadside assistance is covered for four years/50,000 miles, but Mercedes doesn't give you any complimentary maintenance like some other automakers do.
Wildcard
8.5/10
The GLA 45 delivers incredible speed, grip and nimbleness when you're out for a dose of driving thrills, but it's a few degrees less enjoyable if you're just wanting a comfy cruise. Our GLA test vehicle also came with bonus flair in the form of the optional aerodynamics package, which adds a somewhat silly-looking roof spoiler as well as aggressive-looking front bumper elements. No thanks. The good news is they're optional, so if you prefer a more understated look, you can have it and save some money in the process.
Which GLA-Class does Edmunds recommend?
If speed and performance are priorities, the AMG trims are the only way to go. Otherwise, get the GLA 250 with 4Matic. Even if you don't need all-wheel drive, the 4Matic comes with an off-road mode that helps control downhill speed and modulate power on slippery or snowy surfaces for better traction. It's also just a beat faster than the front-wheel-drive version. We'd add the Premium package for the larger displays, and Driver Assistance package (which requires the Multimedia package) for the additional driver aids. Even with all three of these packages, the price remains well under the base price for the AMG version.
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class models
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a small crossover SUV available in GLA 250, AMG GLA 35 and AMG GLA 45 trim levels. In performance terms, think of them as mild, medium and hot. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is optional on the GLA 250 and standard on the performance-tuned AMG variants. Standard features include:
GLA 250
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (221 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque)
Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
18-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights, foglights and taillights
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Heated exterior mirrors
Power liftgate
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Synthetic leather upholstery
Power-adjustable front sport seats with driver memory settings
The GLA also includes the following technology:
Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with twin 7-inch displays
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Mercedes Me connected services, including remote engine start (complimentary for one year, then a subscription is required)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Top Subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022 | Extra-Small & Easy to Drive – What's Not to Like?
NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, but since the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Subcompact SUVs have been gaining in popularity over the last few years. For people who don't need or want the space of a midsize SUV or for those who just want to save a few bucks, a subcompact SUV is a smart and economical choice. These extra-small SUVs maintain that elevated ride height and utility of their larger counterparts, but their smaller size means easier… parking and better gas mileage. What's not to like? In this video, Mark Takahashi runs down our choices for the best subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022. From the Subaru Crosstrek, the new Chevy Trailblazer and Hyundai Kona to the more luxurious BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40, Mark gives a breakdown of each pint-sized SUV. What do we like and dislike about each? What should you know about them? How do they rank in each category? Mark explains all. So whether you're a first-time driver, you have a small family or you're just looking for something fun to drive, we've got you covered in this video of the 2021 Top Subcompact SUVs.
The Q3 starts at a lower price and includes more standard equipment than the Mercedes GLA, including leather seats and all-wheel drive. The cargo area is also substantially larger, and the Q3's tech and infotainment measure up well with the GLA's. If only the Q3 were more fun to drive, delivered better fuel economy, and had a larger back seat, we could easily recommend it over the Mercedes GLA.
Similar to the Audi Q3, the BMW X2 offers plenty of cargo space. Also, like the Mercedes GLA, the X2 has adequate room for passengers in the back seat. The BMW's real draw is in its handling and dynamic performance. It's just fun to drive, more fun than the GLA. In exchange, you need to tolerate a firmer ride quality. The Benz, by comparison, prioritizes a softer ride that pays off in most daily driving situations. The GLA's cramped cargo area is a significant drawback compared to the X2, though.
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
The GLA doesn't offer much cargo space. The solution within the Mercedes-Benz family is the GLB. It sits on the same platform and uses the same powertrains as the GLA, but its taller roofline and boxy dimensions give it extra interior and cargo space. You can even get a third-row seat in the GLB. The GLB isn't quite as stylish as the GLA, but if that's not a priority, the GLB helps reclaim some utility.
Automatic collision notification system with an SOS emergency call button. Service is active for as long as you own the GLA.
Pre-Safe Sound
Standard feature that emits a special noise during a collision to protect your hearing during the impact.
Active Emergency Stop Assist
When using adaptive cruise control and lane centering systems, this feature detects an unresponsive driver and brings the GLA to a safe stop.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 GLA-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the GLA-Class has 19.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class:
Dashcam no longer available for AMG trims
Part of the second GLA generation introduced for 2021
To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the GLA-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the GLA-Class's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 GLA-Class and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 GLA-Class is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
The least-expensive 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $56,650.
Other versions include:
AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) which starts at $56,650
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, the next question is, which GLA-Class model is right for you? GLA-Class variants include AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM). For a full list of GLA-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
Related 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 info
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="1200" height="588" fill="none" preserveAspectRatio="none"%3E%3Cmask id="b" width="1200" height="588" x="0" y="0" maskUnits="userSpaceOnUse" style="mask-type:alpha"%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23a)" d="M896 513c116 45.015 222 64 304 75V0H0v501c40 36.024 154 76 340 76s344-146.269 556-64Z"/%3E%3C/mask%3E%3Cg mask="url(%23b)"%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23c)" d="M896 513c116 45.015 222 64 304 75V0H0v501c40 36.024 154 76 340 76s344-146.269 556-64Z"/%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23d)" fill-opacity=".15" d="M581.718 62.893c42.993 1.53 86.281 5.888 129.704 13.204 311.828 52.485 552.538 242.016 657.698 483.656-149.97-147.971-450.891-226.33-789.375-232.079-338.534.839-640.434 74.572-792.746 220.292 108.75-240.047 352.255-425.97 664.832-473.803a1041.548 1041.548 0 0 1 129.887-11.27Z"/%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23e)" fill-opacity=".5" d="M611.247 209.93a1458.84 1458.84 0 0 1 139.573 27.692c333.61 83.239 577.16 267.208 668.67 475.188-148.93-138.63-468.279-241.218-835.209-290.421-367.6-43.915-702.265-24.445-881.281 72.561 140.567-178.524 422.355-295.817 766.181-293.074 47.867.484 95.274 3.212 142.066 8.054Z"/%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23f)" d="M735.039 879.394c48.524-6.62 97.023-16.967 145.3-31.2C1227.03 746.059 1475.76 472.327 1564.28 145c-151.17 209.633-482.23 344.436-865.05 388.31C315.515 568.571-35.93 504.564-227 330.342-73.333 632.61 226.169 849.617 586.429 878.604c50.15 3.871 99.74 4.07 148.61.79Z" opacity=".3"/%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23g)" d="M694.222 783.712c50.956 12 103.317 20.27 156.946 24.578 385.102 31.013 738.232-146.76 952.062-439.434-231.22 151.216-613.24 158.795-1012.047 55.796C394.784 312.716 68.643 114.101-55.211-133c37.44 360.528 253.087 691.895 601.449 858.946 48.557 23.091 97.963 42.302 147.984 57.766Z" opacity=".9"/%3E%3Cpath fill="url(%23h)" fill-opacity=".5" d="M896 513c116 45.015 222 64 304 75V0H0v501c40 36.024 154 76 340 76s344-146.269 556-64Z"/%3E%3C/g%3E%3Cdefs%3E%3ClinearGradient id="a" x1="1005" x2="989.087" y1="23" y2="552.522" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop stop-color="%23007EE5"/%3E%3Cstop offset=".333" stop-color="%231561D4"/%3E%3Cstop offset="1" stop-color="%230A4AAB"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="c" x1="1005" x2="989.087" y1="23" y2="552.522" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop stop-color="%23007EE5"/%3E%3Cstop offset=".334" stop-color="%231561D4"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="d" x1="675.999" x2="879.999" y1="648.999" y2="120.999" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop stop-color="%23fff"/%3E%3Cstop offset="1" stop-color="%23fff" stop-opacity="0"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="e" x1="656.5" x2="637.602" y1="213" y2="622.259" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop offset=".115" stop-color="%23fff" stop-opacity="0"/%3E%3Cstop offset=".944" stop-color="%23017D8D"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="f" x1="398" x2="737" y1="599" y2="387" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop stop-color="%2300ABB5"/%3E%3Cstop offset="1" stop-color="%2300A0B5" stop-opacity="0"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="g" x1="1051.5" x2="271" y1="567" y2="575" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop stop-color="%230098C2"/%3E%3Cstop offset="1" stop-color="%23033E96" stop-opacity="0"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3ClinearGradient id="h" x1="1005" x2="986.038" y1="23" y2="587.43" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"%3E%3Cstop offset=".813" stop-opacity="0"/%3E%3Cstop offset=".972"/%3E%3C/linearGradient%3E%3C/defs%3E%3C/svg%3E)
