CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £18,300

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2014-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Premium looks, inside and out	Competent but ordinary to drive when rivals offer more
Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating	Rear-seat space is tight
The GLA45 is very quick	Slow-witted dual-clutch auto transmission

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2014-2019) is a premium compact SUV that combines A-Class practicality with SUV styling and raised ride height. Launched to rival the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, it offers a comfortable driving position, solid build quality and a premium interior with good standard equipment. The 2017 facelift brought refreshed styling, revised engines and upgraded technology including LED headlights and improved smartphone connectivity. Boot space of 481 litres suits everyday family duties, though rear-seat space is tight and the swooping roofline makes access awkward for taller passengers.

On the road, the GLA is competent and easy to drive with well-managed body roll and predictable handling. Diesel engines, particularly the GLA 220 CDI, deliver strong mid-range performance, whilst 4Matic four-wheel-drive versions provide better traction in poor weather. However, diesel engines can sound gruff under acceleration, and larger alloy wheels combined with AMG Line suspension create a firm ride on poor roads. Wind and road noise are more noticeable than in some rivals. Running costs are reasonable, with diesel models offering strong fuel economy on longer journeys. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is an entertaining performance variant with hot-hatch pace, though it's significantly more expensive to run.

Best for: Buyers seeking premium badge appeal, a stylish compact SUV with comfortable long-distance capability, and those interested in the high-performance GLA 45 variant.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising rear-seat space, the finest driving dynamics, or expecting superior practicality to traditional SUVs. The firm ride on larger wheels may also disappoint those seeking maximum comfort on poor roads.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the GLA if: You value premium badge appeal, seek a stylish compact SUV with comfortable long-distance capability, or are interested in the high-performance GLA 45 variant.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise rear-seat space, the finest driving dynamics, superior practicality, or maximum comfort on poor roads.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2014-2019) occupies a unique position in the premium compact SUV market, offering stylish design and premium appeal. However, it falls short compared to rivals like the Audi Q3 for driving dynamics and the MINI Countryman for user satisfaction. The GLA's tight rear-seat space and firm ride on larger wheels are notable drawbacks, whilst its competent but unremarkable driving experience means it doesn't match the best in its class. That said, it remains a desirable choice for those prioritising premium badge appeal and long-distance comfort, with the GLA 45 offering genuine performance credentials.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.