2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its luxurious vehicles, as well as its premium pricing. If you like the luxury aspect but can't afford the premium version, consider the 2026 GLA 250. This small SUV is the least expensive vehicle in the carmaker's lineup yet offers similar levels of refinement and technology as the brand's larger and more expensive models. It also serves as a gateway to the pricier offerings once you've experienced the brand's overall excellence. As a subcompact, it's the smallest Mercedes-Benz SUV and a sleeker counterpart to the boxier GLB.

While the entry-level GLA 250 should easily satisfy most drivers, you might be drawn to the AMG GLA 35 if you want something spicier. It comes with a more powerful engine plus suspension and steering enhancements to make it more stable and fun to drive around corners. On the downside, the GLA's ride quality is decidedly stiff and choppy (especially if you opt for larger wheels), and the stickier tires result in noticeably more road noise. We typically reserve these sporty models for select drivers, but in this case, it may make more sense to upgrade to the larger GLC's AMG variants.

The related Mercedes-Benz GLB has a more utilitarian slant, with its boxier shape, which translates to a larger cargo capacity and slightly more rear passenger space. It's a more practical alternative to the sportier-looking GLA. We also recommend the BMW X1. It's a more well-rounded choice that emphasizes overall performance. Audi will introduce an all-new Q3 for 2026, and we'll have to see how it compares to these rivals.