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.
Two new performance models join the 2018 GLC-Class Coupe lineup: the AMG GLC 63 and AMG GLC 63 S. Mercedes has also renamed most of the GLC's options packages to better convey the features added. Heated wipers are now standard, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can now be added with the Smartphone Integration package.
PROS Elegant and premium interior design Excellent balance between agile handling and a comfortable ride Abundant driver safety aids work great Four- and six-cylinder engines are fuel-efficient for the class
CONS Hard to brake smoothly Rear headroom isn't great, especially in the middle Infotainment controls aren't always easy to use Less useful cargo area than in regular GLC
Mercedes-AMG peppers performance and spicy styling into its coupe/crossover casserole. The powertrain platter includes a 362-hp twin-turbo V-6 or twin-turbo V-8s pumping out 469 or 503 ponies. All engines pair with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
Pros Porsche 911 quick, grippy handling, strong brakes, V-8 rumble.
Cons Stiff ride, noisy tires, feels big and heavy from behind the wheel.
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class captivates crossover types with its lush cabin and its plush ride; there’s AMG power on tap if you must.
Pros Cabinet-grade interior (agency or furniture) Choose your body Choose your engine Burmester audio thrills Doesn’t cut short on technology
Cons Expensive safety options It’s not a Coupe, it’s just less useful Numb steering (GLC 300) Rivals have diesel, plug-ins