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 2018 Porsche Macan is unchanged.We like the balance of price and performance you get in the Macan S. It has more capability than you'll likely ever need, yet it is still tame enough for daily driving. As for options, the Premium Package Plus is a good place to start since it adds a nice grouping of desirable equipment without getting too fancy with the customization possibilities.
PROS Quick acceleration regardless of engine choice Most athletic and engaging to drive SUV in its segment Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride Long list of options means you can customize every last detail
CONS Must pay for numerous stand-alone options to get full-featured cabin Less rear-seat and cargo space than segment competitors
The 2018 Porsche Macan ranked #4 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Porsche Macan has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Outstanding acceleration Nimble handling and quiet ride Posh interior User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Subpar fuel economy Undersized cargo hold More expensive than most rivals
The 2018 Porsche Macan is the performance pick among compact crossovers because of course it is. Purists may scoff, but we don’t much care.
Pros Breathtaking speed from a small crossover Plenty of optional goodies GTS model hits a performance sweet spot Fit and finish is perfectly Porsche
Cons Gets expensive in a hurry Oddly shaped cargo area Did we mention it can crest six figures? No manual transmission. Don’t even ask. Back seats aren’t really all that spacious
