The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class blends hatchback with crossover, with better than mixed results.
Pros Quick on its feet Turbo engines are a blast Hatchback practicality Very good fuel economy GLA45 AMG earns its initials
Cons Tight rear seats A $60,000 GLA45 AMG? That escalated quickly Interior can seem plasticky
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class ranked #4 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Impressive infotainment system and features Thrilling AMG model
Cons Inefficient base transmission Cramped back seat
2018 GLA-class amount to little more than a light freshening. Newly optional LED headlamps flank a restyled grille with crossbars that feature rectangular punctures like those on the larger GLS-class SUV. A revised front bumper with more-prominent fog lamps, revised LED taillights, and new wheel designs round out the exterior tweaks. Inside, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen replaces last year’s 7.0-incher; additional chrome brightwork adorns the door panels and the center console; and new, more legible black-faced gauges replace the 2017’s gray-faced units.
Pros Quick reflexes and acceleration, all-weather capability, stylish inside and out.
Cons Cramped cabin, turbo lag around town, ride can be overly firm at times.
With a claimed top speed of 187 mph, Bentley boasts that the Bentayga is the fastest SUV in the world. The claim is made possible by a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W-12 that makes a mighty 600 hp; an eight-speed automatic drives all four wheels. A 542-hp 4.0-liter V-8 is also available. The interior can be configured to seat four or five, and only the finest leather will cosset those lucky posteriors. Options include 22-inch wheels, rear-entertainment tablets, and a 1950-watt, 20 speaker audio system.
Pros V-8 burble, tidier handling, less expensive yet still decadent.
Cons Still heavy, V-8 doesn’t enhance its looks, cool tech costs extra.
The 2018 Bentley Bentayga takes what you think you know about physics, comfort, and speed, and quickly sets a new highwater-mark for each.
Pros Decadent interior Supreme speed from W-12 Fastest SUV on the planet Abundant options Beautifully crafted interior and exterior
Cons Another level of expensive Unbelievably thirsty at the pump Smaller interior than you may be expecting All colors don’t look good
