Verdict
B
← Mercedes-Benz GLA · 2014-present · Two Generations (2014-present)
Mercedes-Benz GLA Two Generations (2014-present)
Two gens. AMG GLA 45 is the halo (375-387 hp 2.0L turbo). MBUX from 2nd gen.
BHP
208-387 bhp
0–60
4.1 s
Top speed
168 mph
MPG
27.0 mpg
New
$14,000-$58,000
Two generations. 1st gen (X156, 2014-2020): launched on Mercedes' MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform shared with A-Class / B-Class / CLA. GLA 250 (2.0L turbo I4, 208 hp / 258 lb-ft, 7-speed DCT, FWD or 4MATIC AWD). The headliner was the AMG GLA 45 (2.0L turbo I4, 355 hp launch / 375 hp facelift / 295 lb-ft, AWD-only, 7-speed DCT) — at launch the most powerful production 4-cylinder ever made. 2017 facelift sharpened styling. 2nd gen (H247, 2021-present): redesigned on MFA2 platform with taller / more upright SUV proportions, less coupe-like. GLA 250 (2.0L turbo I4, 221 hp / 258 lb-ft, 8-speed DCT). AMG split into two trims: AMG GLA 35 (2.0L turbo I4, 302 hp / 295 lb-ft) and AMG GLA 45 (2.0L turbo I4, 382 hp launch then 387 hp post-2024 facelift / 354 lb-ft). All AMG variants AWD-only. MBUX infotainment standard with twin 7- or 10.25-inch displays, 'Hey Mercedes' voice. 2024 mid-cycle facelift refreshed front fascia, added new MBUX generation. Cabin space and rear-seat room remain tight by segment — Mercedes prioritizes style over packaging. Built mostly at Rastatt, Germany.
Strengths
- AMG GLA 45 (387 hp from 2.0L turbo) — class-leading power
- MBUX with 'Hey Mercedes' (2nd gen)
- Star badge value retention
- AMG 4MATIC+ AWD on hot variants
- 8-speed DCT (2nd gen) shifts well
Weaknesses
- Rear seat tight for the segment
- Cargo space below BMW X1 / XC40
- Front-drive base feels less premium than rivals
- 1st gen DCT clunky at low speeds
- AMG GLA 45 ride punishing on bad surfaces
Notable tech
- MBUX twin-display dashboard (2nd gen)
- 'Hey Mercedes' voice assistant
- AMG 4MATIC+ AWD with drift mode
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G
- Augmented reality navigation (2nd gen)
- AMG Track Pace data logger
- Driving Assistance package
Common issues
- DCT mechatronic actuator wear
- 1.3L OM608 engine timing chain (rare US)
- AMG GLA 45 turbo wastegate rattle
- MBUX touchscreen lag (early 2nd gen)
- Coolant pump failures (M260/M270)
- Sunroof rattle / drainage
- Front lower control arm bushings
Used-market budget
$26,000
1st gen GLA 250 $14-22k, AMG GLA 45 $24-36k. 2nd gen GLA 250 $26-34k, AMG GLA 35 $34-44k, AMG GLA 45 $44-58k. AMG variants hold value notably better than base.