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.
With more personality than most small crossovers, the Fiat 500X is definitely worth a look.Fiat has a real chance to win over American buyers with the 500X, which is certainly its most mainstream offering here—perhaps ever. With the 500X, Fiat finally has a mainstream vehicle with widespread appeal. It's a compact crossover SUV that shares running gear with the Jeep Renegade. Rivals include the Honda HR-V, Buick Encore and Chevy Trax, and the Mazda CX-3.
Pros Tidy exterior styling Just right proportions Above average ride and handling More characterful than most rivals
Cons Automatic gearbox can be touchy Sunroof steals head room, especially in back Small infotainment screens Not an off roader
The number of available trims has decreased from five to three, and options packages have been consolidated and renamed. Otherwise, the 2017 Fiat 500X is unchanged.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin with easy-to-use tech controls Reasonably priced Offers safety features not usually available in this class.
Cons So-so fuel economy Confused and clunky automatic transmission Meager cargo room.
The 2017 FIAT 500X ranks 10 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Fiat 500X may have supermodel looks compared to its subcompact SUV rivals, but this chic SUV ranks toward the back of the pack for its unrefined engines, few standard features, and low predicted reliability rating.
Pros Upmarket interior Very maneuverable Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Lackluster engines Few standard features
