Nice Drives: 2024 Mercedes GLA250 4matic

Mercedes has twin entry-level crossovers; the GLA and GLB. The latter is boxier, yielding a slightly roomier cabin and cargo area. The GLA, here tested in 250 form, is svelte and well-proportioned; new lights and bumper fascias added for this year make it even more attractive. In these eyes, it is more attractive than many competitors because of these traits. For those who need more room, the GLB has the answer.

The Mercedes’ interior is very well judged, stylistically and in terms of perceived quality. The dash design with its large, circular vents is bold and attractive and the materials feel appropriate for the price point. The bright twin-screen setup (now with a larger standard touchscreen) runs the latest Benz OS which can be customized to better match the owner’s tastes, responds well to voice inputs and includes wireless Apple and Android mirroring. The front has plenty of room, and the seats are supportive. The Benz’s driving position is well-judged, with good visibility and pleasing touchpoints. The rear bench is also quite commodious—not something that could be said of the previous generation GLA—and the cargo area is well-shaped and easily expanded with the fold-flat seats.

Another pleasant realization is that one doesn’t have to overspend on expensive options like leather (the standard MB-Tex is quite nice) to make the GLA250 an attractive place to spend time. While the Mercedes standard equipment does not include things like heated seats and steering wheel nor adaptive cruise control, pricing on these options is very reasonable—nor is one forced into “packages” of unwanted upgrades to get them. This means a well-equipped GLA250 costs little more than a mainstream compact crossover.

For 2024, mild-hybrid tech is added to the 2-liter turbocharged engine; its 221 horsepower is transferred to the 4matic AWD through an 8-speed auto adroitly; 0-60mph is tackled in the low 6-second range. In Sport mode, the GLA250 feels fleet of foot and it gets great fuel economy. Its steering is light but direct and the suspension tune is well-judged for a Mercedes’ mission: comfort first, with competence in corners as well. Refinement is good, though perhaps the BMW X1 is even quieter.

The Mercedes has lots of other competition; there’s Audi, Lexus and other longtime rivals, along with more recent entrants like the Mazda CX-50 in turbocharged form, now part of the near-premium segment. Yet the GLA250 manages to remain competitive on price and is very compelling in its own right. Its focus on speedy comfort and style backed by substance is very well executed and its size is well-judged, especially for urban use.

EPA Ratings: 24/32/27mpg

0-60mph: 6.3sec

Price as tested: $52,205

Rating: 4 Stars

Here is what Mercedes has to say.