Overview

Mercedes-Benz is a heavy hitter in the family SUV market these days, with an ever-expanding roster of models to cover every conceivable need for new buyers. From the iconic to the enormous – the line-up is as strong as it is varied, but among the most popular models remains the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Brawny yet well-sized for UK roads, the GLA represents a relatively affordable entryway to the wider Mercedes SUV range, but as a small SUV, it’s up against some tough opposition.    

Even when sticking to the premium players, there’s bags of choice. Top targets for Mercedes-Benz (and therefore, your shopping list too) are the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Volvo XC40. Other rivals worth looking at are the Lexus UX, Jaguar E-Pace and small SUVs such as the Audi Q2 and BMW X2.

Being a consummate professional at offering the maximum number of variations on a theme, the GLA comes with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines, as well as six trim levels, opening with the Sport and topping out at the Exclusive. And that’s before we talk about the sporting AMG 35 and 45s.

It’s a well-equipped model in standard form, but stepping up the range adds some very desirable kit, such as a panoramic roof and fully adaptive LED headlights. To boost your monthlies a little more, there’s an optional Driving Assistance package available, which adds the best systems to help with your driving, such as adaptive cruise control.

So, the GLA has a huge number of premium rivals, but sets out to beat them by offering something for everyone. Click through our review to find out exactly how good it is and whether it can beat rivals. We’ll tell you if it’s good to drive, how spacious it is, what it’ll cost you and how plush it is inside.