Considering a pre-owned luxury compact SUV? The 2020 Mercedes Gla has garnered attention for its blend of Mercedes-Benz refinement in a smaller, more accessible package. If you’re looking at a 2020 Mercedes GLA, you’ve likely encountered attractive pricing, making it a compelling option in the used car market. However, before you make a decision, it’s crucial to delve deeper than just the price tag. Let’s break down what to consider when evaluating a 2020 Mercedes GLA, ensuring you drive away with a vehicle that meets your needs and expectations.
One of the first things that might draw you to a 2020 GLA is its value proposition in the used market. It’s common to find these models at prices that reflect depreciation, making luxury car ownership more attainable. Many owners, like those sharing their experiences online, express general satisfaction with their 2020 GLA. This positive sentiment is a good starting point, but it’s essential to look at the specifics of any particular vehicle you’re considering.
When examining a specific 2020 Mercedes GLA, pay close attention to its optional features. Not all GLAs are created equal, and the original configuration significantly impacts its features and overall appeal. Some commonly desired features that might be missing on certain models include a sunroof, parking sensors, and LED headlights. While these might seem like minor omissions, they can affect your daily driving experience and the car’s overall modern aesthetic. For instance, LED headlights significantly enhance nighttime visibility and contribute to a more contemporary look. Retrofitting LED headlights to a GLA not originally equipped with them is generally not a straightforward or cost-effective process. While you might be able to replace the standard bulbs with LED alternatives, the integrated LED headlight units are a different system altogether.
Another aspect to consider is the trim level and interior appointments. The absence of the AMG-line package often indicates that the vehicle is equipped with MB-Tex/ARTICO leatherette upholstery rather than genuine leather seats. MB-Tex, Mercedes-Benz’s leatherette, is a high-quality synthetic material that many owners actually prefer for its durability and ease of cleaning. It’s less prone to wear and tear compared to genuine Napa leather, which can show creases and wear on the bolsters relatively quickly. Understanding the upholstery material is important for both comfort and long-term maintenance.
A critical step before purchasing any used car, especially a luxury vehicle like the 2020 Mercedes GLA, is a thorough in-person inspection. A lower price could sometimes indicate underlying issues, so it’s crucial to investigate potential reasons for a reduced price. Always obtain a CarFax or similar vehicle history report to check for accidents, damage, or title issues. Visually inspect the car for signs of previous repairs, such as mismatched paint shades, misaligned body panels, or uneven reflections in the paint, which could suggest substandard bodywork.
Be cautious if the seller describes a 2020 Mercedes GLA as “fully loaded.” Luxury cars have numerous optional features, and what one person considers “fully loaded” can vary. Beyond the sunroof, parking sensors, and LED headlights, other optional features for the 2020 GLA include metallic paint, a 360° camera system, upgraded alloy wheels, and keyless entry with push-button start. Standard models will have the base alloy wheels and lack the chrome strip on the door handles that signifies Keyless-Go. If the door handles lack this chrome accent, you’ll need to use the key fob for both entry and starting the engine.
Finally, discrepancies in vehicle identification numbers (VINs) should raise immediate red flags. If a VIN decoder indicates the car is a 2021 model when it’s being advertised as a 2020 Mercedes GLA, this is a significant issue. It could point to VIN fraud or a VIN swap, potentially concealing a problematic vehicle history, such as theft, salvage title, or rebuilt status. Always verify the VIN using multiple reputable decoders and cross-reference it with the car’s documentation.
In conclusion, a 2020 Mercedes GLA can be an excellent choice in the used car market, offering luxury and practicality at a potentially attractive price point. If a particular GLA checks out upon thorough personal inspection and vehicle history review, and the missing options are not deal-breakers for you, then it could represent a solid purchase. However, be diligent in your research and inspection to ensure you’re making an informed decision and avoiding potential pitfalls when buying a used luxury vehicle.
