2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Review

　　

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Review

byMark TakahashiCorrespondent

　　Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the zzdcar YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.

　　The Mercedes-Benz GLA was one of the first subcompact luxury SUVs to arrive in America when it debuted for the 2015 model year. For 2020, it still has some appealing attributes, such as an attractive base price and pleasing performance. But there are also some significant drawbacks that you'll need to consider.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 250 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) 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 $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$166/mo  for GLA-Class GLA 250

　　GLA-Class GLA 250

　　GLA 250 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) - $34,250 MSRPGLA 250 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) (Most Popular) - $36,250 MSRP

　　vs

　　$166/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　First and foremost is the GLA's stiff ride quality that can be intrusive on rough pavement. It's jarring for any vehicle and is especially troubling for a Mercedes. The GLA is also a bit tricky to drive in traffic; the engine can be slow and inconsistent to respond when you want to accelerate. Then there's the GLA's interior, which isn't particularly luxurious or roomy.

　　There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Mercedes will likely introduce an all-new GLA in the next year or two, and we expect it to be significantly improved. But if you can't wait, we recommend checking out some rival SUVs that are newer and more appealing overall such as the BMW X1, the Mini Countryman and the Volvo XC40.

　　

Which GLA-Class does zzdcar recommend?

There's not a whole lot to decide upon other than which optional features to get. To make the most of the GLA's luxury badge, we suggest adding the Premium package to get heated front seats and blind-spot monitoring. The Multimedia package is also a worthwhile option because of its voice-controlled navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

　　

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class models

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA is offered in two trim levels: GLA 250 and the all-wheel-drive GLA 250 4Matic.

　　Standard feature highlights include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (208 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque), a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a power liftgate, a power-adjustable driver's seat and simulated leather upholstery. You also get an 8-inch central infotainment display and a six-speaker audio system.

　　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 and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

　　Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are available in the Driver Assistance package, and a Parking Assistance package adds a surround-view camera and a self-parking system. Notable stand-alone options include a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, leather upholstery and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

　　

2020 GLA-Class Highlights

Trim: GLA 250GLA 250 4MATICGLA 250

　　

Base MSRP	$34,250
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$166/month
Seating	5 seats
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles