The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA four-door luxury compact SUV has arrived with the automaker’s latest technology, styling and comfort level. With a roomier interior and slightly more powerful engine, the GLA is now on par with the recently introduced Mercedes CLA sedan in terms of luxury, if not size. For those looking for a hot hatch masquerading as an SUV, the AMG GLA45 delivers an impressive amount of power and handling. 

The standard turbo 2.0-liter inline-four engine produces 221 horsepower, while more adventurous drivers can upgrade to the AMG-tuned 302-horsepower GLA35 or 382- horsepower GLA45.  Mercedes-Benz

In its eighth generation, the new 2021 GLA squashes many of the comfort issues that plagued the previous generation with a comprehensive redesign. The interior offers more front-seat headroom and rear-seat legroom with slightly more trunk cargo space. The redesigned front end, while subtle, exudes a more aggressive stance. The GLA is available in three powertrain configurations: GLA 250, GLA35, and GLA45. 

The front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive 4Matic GLA 250 are powered by a turbo 2.0-liter inline-four engine with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that produces 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The AMG-tuned GLA35 starts at $48,600 and ups that power to 302 horsepower with 295 pound-feet of torque, while the top-end AMG GLA45 starting at $55,550 creates a mighty 382 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Both ship with AWD and a sport-tuned suspension as standard kit. 

For those looking for AMG styling without the additional power, the AMG line with 19-inch AMG twin-spoke wheels and AMG badging is an additional $2,600. The AMG line with Night Package with black accents on the wheels and exterior is available for an additional $3,000. 

As anticipated, the power of the GLA45 with its low-end exhaust note, gratifying acceleration, and sport seats makes for the most engaging GLA experience. Still, the standard GLA 250 offers zippy acceleration and smooth handling in a comfortable package that makes both city and highway driving pleasant. 

Interior upgrades include an optional 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment display for an additional $1,750.  Mercedes-Benz

Other than the base-level vinyl seats, the entry-level GLA exudes Mercedes luxury thanks to its redesigned interior. Materials feel appropriate for this price point. The inclusion of the standard seven-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system with its “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant delivers a luxury and tech-savvy experience. The system supports both Apple’s CarPlay and Android and includes four USB-C ports. The premium package increases the size of the MBUX display to 10.25-inches and adds keyless entry for an additional $1,750. 

As with most compact SUVs, the GLA is more about height than cargo space. This generation is nearly four inches taller than its predecessor while coming in at 0.6-inches shorter. The result is 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space and 50.5 cubic square feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. That’s less than the BMW X1 on both counts and less trunk space than the Audi Q3. It does best the Audi in overall cargo capacity, however. 

The increased height also results in enough headroom both in the front and back seats for tall drivers, and what the vehicle lacks in trunk capacity it makes up for with enough legroom front and back for passengers to sit comfortably. 

Cargo room behind the front seats is 50.5 cubic square feet placing its capacity between the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.  Mercedes-Benz

Protecting occupants overall, the GLA comes standard with active brake, blind-spot monitoring, crosswind assist, and attention assist. More robust safety and driver assistance features are available for $1,700. The GLA has not been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.