2021 Mercedes GLA in-depth review - is Merc’s smallest SUV finally the real deal?

The second-generation Mercedes GLA boasts a more traditional SUV look than the old model. It’s taller and wider than before, with a plush, digital interior and an excellent array of engines, including a frugal PHEV powertrain. But is it worth considering over the regular A-Class hatchback? Richard Ingram puts it to the test to find out.

Follow us:

Carbuyer makes car buying simple. We're the only automotive brand that's approved by the Plain English Campaign, delivering you clear, concise and easy to understand information about the things that really matter when you're choosing - and buying - your next car.

[carbuyer]

Would you pick the Mercedes GLA over an A-Class?

[jonathantaylor]

"There isn't a pure EV version of the GLA, yet..."
Er, really...?
The EQA was available to order from this month with deliveries in the summer. :-)

[Morganpo]

I did enjoy Nicola and Richard combined rewiew together, hopefully you do this more often. 👍👍👍

[VincentAmari]

I prpefer rear wheel or 4WD, and wonder why don't they give AWD option for the petrol non AMG versions?

[richardpowell]

I have the previous GLA, 200d 4matic. Totally satisfied and think it looks nicer than the latest version which, agreed, has a more SUV look.

[thomasv.schafenberg]

Sorry, wrong information. The 1, 3 liter petrol engine is NOT from Renault, but build by Mercedes in its engine factory in Koelleda, Germany.
Only the engine block is made by Renault in cooperation with Mercedes. Inform yourself better, before you tell stories.

[gilloppy]

I was so excited when ordered the GLA AMG premium plus in early February and expected to get it in May and have just been told that because of production problems they cant give me any idea when they will even start making it let alone deliver it 😭

[chrisswildlife]

I had pretty high expectations with this car. Mat Watson said that you can hardly feel the bumps at all. But when I test drove it, I was quite disappointed. It was bumpy, loud road noise, and rattling sounds in the back. The A-Class I test drove was much better.

[warwickhamzah]

Does gLA 200 have the cheapest maintenance and repair cost?

[polskif]

Hi I have watched a lot of reviews on the gla but none let you know how quick the climate control heats up I live in Scotland and its cold 95%of the year haha

[aideencrawley]

Can you get the gla hybrid with a toe bar to hold a bike rack or small trailer?

[martinnowak]

Has it got this odd hand break like in A Class?

[malph]

Aaaaarrrgh! Square wheel arches why? They look horrendous!.

[sanjivat]

Does it have blind spot monitoring as std.? Or option ?

[jamieclarke]

Great review, can't wait for the next video.

[nikky]

I am so glad to see Nicola.. thought she wouldn't appear at all.. 💗

[georgedaville]

Why have Mercedes defaulted to just making all car interiors black? I hate black interiors. It seems a competent car, but it is one of many in an ever expanding plethora of SUV's. I will be sticking with my Jaguar E Pace, and have change in my pocket, and a light interior!!!

[georgedowns]

I thought you were switching presenters every week. What is going on?

[patbreitkopf]

Namaste Ola Källenius, TODAY IN ÖHRINGEN!

[Bambotb]

Why would a G wagon be better than this ?