CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,100
Average Price: Around £19,000

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2020-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Muscular and athletic styling	Mercedes has an iffy reputation for reliability
Sharp to drive	The 45 S is very expensive to fuel
Superb infotainment system	Headroom is a little tight in the back

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2020-present) is a vastly superior offering to its predecessor, delivering a genuinely desirable compact SUV that merits success based on its qualities rather than marketing appeal alone. The styling is now plausibly SUV rather than a jacked-up hatchback, with chunkier dimensions translating into more interior space and a bigger, more versatile boot. Cabin quality rivals the best in its class, whilst the elevated driving position and generous luxury kit fitted to all versions help create a premium feel. The superb infotainment system is particularly captivating, with its slick interface appealing to tech enthusiasts and general users alike.

The driving experience is significantly more competitive than before, with a comfortable ride that handles fairly sharply despite some fidgetiness at low speeds. The engine range spans from sensible to sensational, with most delivering respectable economy. Diesel variants suit high-mileage drivers, returning around 50-53mpg, whilst petrol engines achieve 37-41mpg. The plug-in hybrid offers excellent efficiency for urban driving. However, running costs are steep, with premium pricing, high insurance groups, and significant road tax implications for higher-spec models. Mercedes' reliability reputation also warrants consideration.

Best for: Buyers seeking a premium compact SUV with cutting-edge technology, sharp handling, and stylish design; those prioritising infotainment and cabin quality over outright practicality.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers concerned about reliability; those needing maximum rear headroom; drivers of the high-performance 45 S variant seeking economical fuel consumption.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the GLA-Class if: You seek a premium compact SUV with cutting-edge technology, sharp handling, and stylish design; you prioritise infotainment and cabin quality over outright practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You are budget-conscious and concerned about reliability; you need maximum rear headroom; you are considering the high-performance 45 S variant and seek economical fuel consumption.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (2020-present) is a genuinely desirable compact SUV that competes strongly against the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40. Whilst it matches rivals on expert ratings, the Volvo XC40 edges ahead with superior user ratings and value scores. The GLA distinguishes itself through its captivating infotainment system, muscular styling, and sharp handling characteristics. However, premium pricing and Mercedes' reliability reputation mean it's best suited to buyers prioritising technology and design over budget considerations. For those willing to invest in a premium compact SUV experience, the GLA delivers compelling qualities that justify its position in this competitive segment.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Review

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