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.
The 2018 Jeep Compass ranked #13 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Jeep Compass has a score of 7.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros User-friendly infotainment system Good value for an off-road SUV Cargo storage is convenient and versatile
Cons Low predicted reliability rating Below-average cargo room Lethargic engine
Coming off last year's redesign, the 2018 Jeep Compass is unchanged.The newest Compass is more comfortable to drive and can be fitted with Jeep's latest in-car technology features such as the easy-to-operate Uconnect infotainment system.
PROS Roomy interior for such a small vehicle Trailhawk version is highly capable off-road
CONS Hard to find a truly comfortable seat position Four-cylinder engine's weak power delivery
The 2018 Jeep Compass makes some compromises in size and power, but its Trailhawk model hits the crossover-SUV sweet spot.
Pros Tough Trailhawk model Clever Cherokee-like shape Lots of trim choice Up-to-date infotainment Comfortable ride quality and good handling
Cons 4-cylinder is overwhelmed here Cabin feels narrow Seats need better padding Mediocre visibility No adaptive cruise control
