The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class ranks 2 out of 5 Luxury Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV offers compact-car-like agility and fuel economy in an upscale package. However, there’s little passenger and storage space – even for a subcompact – and its ride isn't as cushioned as many of its rivals.
Pros Powerful engines Outstanding handling Lavish interior Class-leading reliability score
Cons Poor cargo capacity Small back seats
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a small, luxury compact 'ute that prioritizes "looks" over "feels," or in other words, it's probably perfect for a lot of shoppers. Mercedes' smallest crossover—if you can call it that—returns this year to challenge our ideas of compact SUVs, performance, and rear seat head room. Offered as a base front-drive GLA250, all-wheel drive GLA250, or top Mercedes-AMG GLA45, the GLA class may follow Mercedes' nomenclature as an SUV, but it's in a class all its own.
Pros Impressive dynamic driving Lots of turbo fun Sporty and small for two Decent fuel economy Great options ...
Cons but they're pricey $60,000 for a subcompact hatch? Cramped rear seat
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality is available for both 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class versions this year. Mercedes says the instrument panel has been mildly redesigned, and the 8-inch display screen is thinner than before. The new AMG Dinamica package adds faux-suede upholstery to the GLA 45's steering wheel and dashboard.
Pros Sporty handling and performance even in the base model AMG GLA 45's long list of available technology and safety features.
Cons Ride quality is firm to the point some might object Road and wind noise is in abundance Automatic transmission can operate awkwardly in stop-and-go situations Less cargo capacity than its rivals.
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 ranks 16 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The new-for-2017 Cadillac XT5 has a well-built cabin and spacious rear seats. It also has a long list of features, including several driver assistance options. However, many class rivals have more impressive engines, and the XT5's handling ability draws mixed reviews.
Pros First-rate cabin materials Spacious rear seats Excellent safety ratings
Cons Uninspiring engine
The new 2017 Cadillac XT5 combines a large interior with a pleasing ride, plentiful outward visibility and a striking design. If you're shopping in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, the XT5 is worth a look.
Pros Pleasing ride and handling Generous interior space Excellent forward visibility.
Cons Only one engine choice Tech interface can frustrate All-wheel drive not available in base trim.
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is an evolutionary improvement over the SRX in most ways, but it’s part of a larger leap for Cadillac. The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is the successor to the GM luxury brand's smallest SUV, the SRX. New this model year, it's a design that lays some heavy bets on lighter-weight construction, a library-themed interior, and other upscale cues that Cadillac hopes will lure away buyers from the likes of the Audi Q5 and Benz GLC.
Pros Fine details everywhere inside Suite of fuel-efficiency and safety tech Easy drivability, perky powertrain Softer, less chiseled look than SRX
Cons Rear seat still a bit tight across Lacks the sport-sedan pedigree of some rivals No hybrid in the lineup CarPlay outshines Cadillac's own CUE
