The 2021 Mercedes-benz Gla-class marks a significant leap forward from its predecessor, transforming itself into a truly compelling option in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment. For those in the market for a vehicle that blends Mercedes-Benz prestige with the practicality of an SUV, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class warrants serious consideration. This redesigned model addresses previous shortcomings, offering enhanced driving dynamics, a more refined interior, and cutting-edge technology, all while retaining an accessible price point for the brand.
While the first generation GLA-Class, introduced in 2015, left some critics wanting more in terms of driving engagement and practicality, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class emerges as a mature and well-rounded contender. This second-generation model is not just an incremental update; it’s a comprehensive overhaul that elevates the GLA-Class to a new level of desirability. It successfully captures the essence of the Mercedes-Benz brand in a smaller, more urban-friendly package.
Image showcasing the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class in an outdoor setting, emphasizing its modern design and compact SUV proportions.
Driving Performance of the 2021 GLA-Class
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class offers a driving experience that is both refined and capable, particularly in the GLA 250 guise, the most commonly chosen model. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the GLA 250 provides ample power for daily driving and confident highway merging. The engine produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, delivered smoothly through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
During performance testing, the front-wheel-drive 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 250 achieved a 0-60 mph sprint in a respectable 6.8 seconds. This figure is competitive within the extra-small luxury SUV class, indicating that the GLA-Class offers sufficient acceleration for most driving situations. While the engine and transmission generally operate seamlessly, some drivers may notice slight engine vibrations during the automatic stop-start system engagement. Additionally, the transmission can exhibit a minor delay when demanding rapid acceleration, a characteristic typical of dual-clutch systems prioritizing fuel efficiency.
Handling in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is assured and stable, inspiring confidence when navigating corners and winding roads. However, the braking performance revealed a less impressive aspect. In panic-braking tests from 60 mph, the GLA 250 required 138 feet to come to a complete stop. This braking distance is longer than average for its segment and even exceeds some larger vehicles. This longer stopping distance is likely attributed to the standard tires, which prioritize low rolling resistance for fuel economy rather than ultimate grip. Nevertheless, the brakes feel smooth and progressive in regular, everyday driving scenarios.
Comfort and Refinement Inside the 2021 GLA-Class
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class prioritizes passenger comfort, especially in the standard configuration. The seats, upholstered in MB-Tex simulated leather, are designed for both support and breathability, ensuring comfort even on longer journeys. The front seats offer a wide range of adjustments, including extendable thigh supports, accommodating drivers of various sizes. For enhanced luxury, optional multi-contour seats with heating and ventilation are available.
Ride quality in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is generally commendable, effectively absorbing road imperfections and delivering a composed experience. While larger undulations may introduce some body motion, the suspension system strikes a good balance between handling agility and ride comfort. A notable drawback, however, is the presence of road noise, which can become intrusive on rougher road surfaces. The engine noise is well-suppressed under normal driving conditions, but it can become more noticeable and somewhat strained during hard acceleration.
Interior Design and Technology of the 2021 GLA-Class
The interior of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class represents a significant upgrade in both design and material quality compared to the previous generation. The cabin shares design cues with the A-Class sedan, featuring stylish air vents and meticulously crafted controls on the center console. The perceived space within the cabin is notably improved, particularly in terms of headroom. The higher seating position and redesigned windscreen contribute to a more commanding view of the road, enhancing the overall driving experience for both the driver and front passenger.
Ingress and egress in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class are convenient, thanks to the elevated ride height and well-proportioned doors, even in tight parking spaces. The driver-centric cockpit layout places primary controls within easy reach and visibility. Secondary functions are primarily managed through the infotainment system, which is intuitive and quickly mastered. Despite its sleek exterior profile, the GLA-Class offers a surprisingly spacious and airy cabin, with adequate room for adults in the rear seats. Visibility is excellent in all directions, aiding both safety and parking maneuvers.
Technologically, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class excels, particularly with its MBUX infotainment system. This system is recognized as one of the most user-friendly and advanced available today, offering multiple control interfaces, including touchscreen, touchpad, voice control (“Hey, Mercedes”), and steering wheel-mounted controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, further enhancing connectivity. Voice command functionality is accurate, although processing times can occasionally be slightly delayed. A point of contention is the limited array of standard advanced safety features. While frontal collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring are included, many other driver-assistance technologies are relegated to optional packages, which is less generous compared to some mainstream brands that offer a more comprehensive suite of safety features as standard.
Storage Capacity and Practicality of the 2021 GLA-Class
In terms of storage, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class offers a cargo area of 15.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. This capacity is comparable to a midsize sedan and is functional for everyday needs, but it is smaller than some competitors in the extra-small luxury SUV segment and notably less than the Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV. The low cargo floor lift-over height does facilitate easier loading of heavier items. Interior storage solutions include moderately sized bins and pockets, and the cupholders feature innovative spring-loaded tabs for securing various container sizes. A rubberized tray is designed to hold a smartphone and optionally integrates a wireless charging pad. For families with young children, the rear seats can accommodate rear-facing infant seats without compromising front passenger space, and the car seat anchors are easily accessible.
Fuel Efficiency and Value of the 2021 GLA-Class
Fuel economy is a strong point for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. The front-wheel-drive GLA 250 achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg combined (25 city/34 highway). Real-world testing has validated these figures, with observed fuel economy reaching 31.2 mpg on mixed driving routes. Compared to rivals such as the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40, the GLA 250 demonstrates slightly better fuel efficiency.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class presents a reasonable entry price into the Mercedes-Benz brand. However, to equip the GLA-Class with desirable features, opting for option packages is often necessary, which can elevate the final price. Despite a starting price that is competitive, careful selection of options is advisable to maintain value. Build quality is consistent with Mercedes-Benz standards, although the interior incorporates more hard plastic elements than some might expect at this price point. However, these materials are well-textured and positioned in less frequently touched areas. The overall quality represents a clear improvement over the previous GLA-Class generation. Warranty coverage is standard for the luxury segment, with four years or 50,000 miles for both bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage, along with roadside assistance for the same duration. Mercedes-Benz does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike some competitors.
Overall Impression and Recommendation for the 2021 GLA-Class
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class effectively embodies the essence of its larger sibling, the GLC SUV, in a more compact and accessible form. For buyers who prioritize luxury and technology in a smaller SUV without requiring the additional seating of the GLB or the larger footprint of the GLC, the GLA-Class is a compelling choice. While not explicitly designed for exhilarating driving dynamics, it excels in delivering comfort and refinement, aligning with core Mercedes-Benz brand values.
For most buyers, the base GLA 250 model offers an ideal balance of performance and features. It is highly recommended to consider adding the Driver Assistance package to gain access to advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. The Premium package, which includes larger touchscreen displays, is also a worthwhile enhancement, elevating the technological sophistication of the cabin.
In conclusion, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class overcomes the limitations of its predecessor to become a strong contender in the extra-small luxury SUV category. It delivers a refined driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and a wealth of technology, making it a smart choice for those seeking a premium compact SUV.
Image showcasing the Mercedes-Benz brand identity, subtly reinforcing the luxury and heritage associated with the 2021 GLA-Class.
