2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45

　　

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class AMG GLA 45 Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　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 zzdcar, 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.

　　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 $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$212/mo  for GLA-Class AMG GLA 45

　　GLA-Class AMG GLA 45

　　AMG GLA 45 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) (Most Popular) - $56,650 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　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.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar 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

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the AMG GLA 45 drive? Our test AMG GLA 45 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds at zzdcar' 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.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below