2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Part of the German automaker's ambitious lineup expansion program that's kicked into high gear over the past decade or so, the fairly new Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class compact SUV enters its third year in production with only minimal updates. Since its introduction, the GLA has proved popular with buyers, especially younger ones, so there was no need for a more extensive refresh at this time. Expect that to happen in the next year or two. For now, Mercedes makes some tweaks to the headlights and taillights, but other than that, the 2017 GLA remains unchanged, continuing to display dashing good looks enhanced by a competent blend of features, performance, and luxury.
Developed by the German automaker as its answer to such competitive vehicles as the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Volkswagen Tiguan, the GLA in some ways resembles an upscale version of Subaru's Outback. It has the same raised stance, the same muscular and aggressive nature, and the same long, low roofline tapering to the rear hatch. In fact, in another era, the GLA might have been called a souped-up wagon, although it thoroughly updates that concept with a futuristic design, contemporary proportions, and a sleek profile. Consider it, if you will, a 21st-century wagon, although Mercedes prefers the terms crossover vehicle or compact SUV. No matter what you call it, the GLA works as an overall package, with just enough power, luxury, ruggedness, and versatility to fill a number of needs for upscale buyers on a budget.
The GLA shares its underpinnings with the CLA Coupe, which provides it with its performance cred, nimble handling, and overall stability. The GLA also shares its nomenclature with the CLA, which designates both as part of the automaker's A Class. As such, the GLA occupies the entry-level position in its SUV model category, which includes the larger, more powerful GLC, GLE, GLS, and G (the original Gelandewagen, the basis for all the Mercedes SUVs that followed). In addition, like the CLA, the GLA sits on a small footprint, which doesn't allow for a spacious interior, especially when compared to its competitors. But it does offer a luxury-oriented cabin with plenty of high-tech features, a turbocharged powerplant, decent fuel economy, and available all-wheel drive.
Part of the GLA's attractiveness remains its sleek exterior design, including its prominent nose, large wheel wells, and low cabin, as well as the aerodynamic swoops and contours up front and along the sides. The stylish design gives the GLA a windswept look, as if it can cut easily through the air. The automaker's updates to the headlights and taillights for 2017 should enhance that look in a subtle way. Standard exterior features remain the same for 2017 and include the dynamic twin-louver grille, front foglights, chrome roof rails, roof spoiler, and 18-inch wheels.
As in previous years, the 5-door GLA comes in three trims. The base GLA250 combines a relatively affordable price point with a strong list of standard features, including a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat, leatherette upholstery, anthracite interior trim, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a split/folding rear seat, and a power liftgate. All GLAs also come equipped with a dual-level dashboard with five air vents, a three-spoke sport steering wheel, and push-button start. Options include leather upholstery and heated front seats.
The front-wheel-drive GLA250 derives its power from a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's good enough to drive the GLA250 from 0-60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. The engine links to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode and shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. The powerplant includes an ECO start/stop system, which helps improve efficiency. Fuel-economy numbers for the base GLA check in at fairly respectable 25 mpg city/35 highway/29 combined. Premium gas is required.
Stepping up a notch, the GLA250 4Matic adds the automaker's permanent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which features variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles and helps improve grip and agility by sending up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels when needed. Powered by the same turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and 7-speed transmission, it makes the sprint to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and posts fuel economy numbers of 23/29/25. The GLA250 4Matic also adds Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) as a standard feature for off-roading. Activated by a control button on the center console, it assists the driver in maintaining a safe pace on steep downhill slopes by making adjustments to the engine, transmission, and braking when necessary.
Both the GLA250 and GLA250 4Matic come standard with the automaker's COMAND infotainment system, as well as its Driver Select system. Updated in 2016, the COMAND system includes a 7-inch color display, a rotary controller, Bluetooth, dual USB audio ports, a CD player, and a rear-view camera, as well as the new Driver Select system, which enables drivers to choose from various driving modes and driver-assistance functions. On the GLA250 4Matic, the system also includes an off-road display, which indicates the steering angle, roll angle, gradient percent, and other information. Options include navigation with a larger 8-inch display, satellite radio, in-car WiFi hotspot capability, and a Harmon/Kardon Surround Sound audio system.
At the top of the lineup, the AMG GLA45 continues to impress, thanks to its upgraded AMG 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant, which pumps up hp to 375 and torque to 350 lb-ft, while reducing the 0-60 time to 4.3 seconds. Mercedes sweetens the deal with a wide range of AMG enhancements, including an AMG-tuned SpeedShift 7-speed automatic transmission, AMG performance 4Matic AWD, and an AMG sport suspension, sport exhaust system, and high-performance braking system. It also features the ECO start/stop system and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Fuel-economy numbers for the AMG GLA45 check in at 23/29/25.
Outside, the GLA45 receives a number of AMG-designed upgrades, including unique body styling, a unique double-crosswing grille, and a restyled front apron. It rides on 19-inch AMG wheels. Inside, it includes upgraded heated front sport seats and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
Although it offers seating for five in two rows and pampers with its luxury-oriented cabin, the GLA can become cramped at times, especially for large families, when car pooling, or when hauling around sports equipment, furniture, or even numerous shopping bags. Rear-seat passengers, especially taller ones, will find tight legroom and headroom, although those in the front have a little more space. Cargo area behind the rear seat measures 17.2 cubic feet, which expands to 43.6 cubic feet with the flat-folding rear seats folded down. The front passenger seat also folds flat to add flexibility.
While AWD-equipped GLAs aren't hard-core off-roaders, they manage fairly well when traveling off paved surfaces. A driver-selectable off-road transmission mode makes adjustments to shift points and engine characteristics for light off-road duty. In addition, all GLAs come equipped with a wide range of safety and driver assistance functions, including Collision Prevention Assist, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, and a 4-wheel Electronic Traction system. Ten airbags also come standard.
Despite its relatively small cabin, the GLA has a lot going for it, including its athletic profile and entry-level luxury price point. Overall, the GLA represents a solid value and gives daily commuters a handsome and luxury-oriented ride that won't break the bank account.
User reviews for 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Kerry B
Mar 23, 2024
I have owned a GLA 250. The design of the car is classy, and the 4 cylinder turbo propels the car down the road. But the car feels as if it has no springs - it rides like a brick. The interior is very small and feels cramped. Cargo capacity is woeful. I would not own another one.Mar 23, 2024
by Pedro L
Apr 18, 2022
Compact car very versatile and is long trip capable Apr 18, 2022
by Shawn F
Mar 14, 2022
Drives well. Great for someone who wants SUV feel but smallerMar 14, 2022
User rating:
by Kerry B
Mar 23, 2024
I have owned a GLA 250. The design of the car is classy, and the 4 cylinder turbo propels the car down the road. But the car feels as if it has no springs - it rides like a brick. The interior is very small and feels cramped. Cargo capacity is woeful. I would not own another one.Mar 23, 2024
by Pedro L
Apr 18, 2022
Compact car very versatile and is long trip capable Apr 18, 2022
by Shawn F
Mar 14, 2022
Drives well. Great for someone who wants SUV feel but smallerMar 14, 2022
by CASSANDRA S
Feb 08, 2021
No back-up camera. No nav system. Awkward configuration of control s. Not intuitive Feb 08, 2021
by Shahid A
Nov 30, 2020
It’s good suv very nice price too? Very cool price Nov 30, 2020
by David P
May 20, 2020
Gorgeous car with excellent ride that beats the Mercedes reputation fir safety and reliability May 20, 2020
by Nicholas V
Mar 19, 2020
Features OK for the price, but NOT in keeping with the MB badge.Mar 19, 2020
What users have asked
Key Not Detected
I have a 2017 GLA250 Mercedes with about 10,000 miles. I have been getting a message "key not detected" while driving and when I try to start the car. I took bot keys to the dealer to have them checked and new batteries put in them. About a week later, my car would not start and the same message appeared. I tried both keys and neither worked. The tow driver (who Mercedes sent) asked me to unload the center console, so he could rub the key on the bottom of the console to try to get it to start! It worked. I took the car to the dealer and they are claiming one of the keys was malfunctioning. After this happened my car lost satellite radio and Apple Car Play. I am worried a faulty key is not the problem since the car would not respond to either keys and I lost access to already programed services. Help?
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2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA Pricing
Original MSRP
$32,850 to $49,900Price range
$14,032 to $15,551Average price on CG
$14,032YoY price change
$15,551 to $14,032Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · HD radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.6 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: aluminium · Dash trim: aluminum · Door trim: aluminum · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: rear · Cargo cover: hard · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: rear · Memorized settings: side mirrors · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Rear power outlet: 12V · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: phone · Storage: in-floor · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 14
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 4.60
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: chrome surround · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: roofline spoiler · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: power adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment screen size: 8 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Instrument cluster screen size: 4.5 in. · Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rails: chrome
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Automatic emergency braking: front · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off · Pre-Collision Warning System: visual warning
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: reclining · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: auto-on in reverse
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.6 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: aluminium · Dash trim: aluminum · Door trim: aluminum · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: front · Cargo cover: hard · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Memorized settings: liftgate · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Rear power outlet: 12V · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: phone · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 14
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 4.60 · Locking differential: rear
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: chrome surround · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: roofline spoiler · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: power operated · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Facebook · Infotainment screen size: 8 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Instrument cluster screen size: 4.5 in. · Warnings and reminders: maintenance reminder
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rails: chrome
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Automatic emergency braking: front · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Pre-Collision Warning System: visual warning
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · HD radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 13.8 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.0 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: aluminium · Dash trim: aluminum · Door trim: aluminum · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: aluminum · Shift knob trim: aluminum · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: rear · Cargo cover: hard · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: rear · Memorized settings: passenger seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Rear power outlet: 12V · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Storage: cargo net · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 14
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 4.13 · Locking differential: center
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: chrome surround · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: roofline spoiler · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment screen size: 8 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Instrument cluster screen size: 4.5 in. · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rails: chrome
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Automatic emergency braking: front · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off · Pre-Collision Warning System: visual warning
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: with safety reverse · Rear wiper: auto-on in reverse