What Is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a subcompact luxury SUV with seating for five and a choice of turbocharged four-cylinder engines, paired with a new-for-2024 mild-hybrid system and front- or all-wheel drive. The most powerful drivetrain is reserved for the AMG GLA 35, which delivers 302 horsepower and comes solely with AWD. As for the regular GLA 250, it has a 221-hp, 2.0-liter hybrid turbo-four. All GLAs use an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Performance is peppy, and fuel economy is solid for a small SUV. While the GLA’s sleek shape limits its overall practicality, it remains a refined and stylish alternative to rivals like the BMW X1, Volvo XC40, Audi Q3 and Lexus UX.
What’s New on the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
All GLA trims get styling updates, including a new grille and LED lighting front and rear. The GLA’s list of standard equipment grows longer, too, now including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mercedes says the new 48-volt mild-hybrid system can add 13 hp under certain driving conditions and makes the powertrain’s stop-start function smoother. The 382-hp AMG GLA 45 trim has been discontinued, leaving the AMG GLA 35 as the sole high-performance GLA for now.
What Features in the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- Synthetic leather seating surfaces
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Power liftgate
- 64-color ambient interior lighting
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Five USB-C ports
- Six-speaker audio system
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot warning
- Crosswind Assist
- Rain-sensing wipers
Available features include:
- Leather seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- 12-speaker Burmester audio system
- AMG Performance all-wheel-drive system
- Sport exhaust
Should I Buy the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is an attractive and highly maneuverable pick among premium small SUVs. If rock-crawling abilities and loads of cargo space are your top priorities, however, you’ll want to look elsewhere. Its size makes the GLA easy to place exactly where you want it, and its turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder engines provide plenty of character. The AMG variant amps up the GLA’s performance, but it also demands a hefty price premium over the GLA 250.
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