2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Pros: Comfortable ride; good interior room within tidy exterior dimensions; lots of high-tech infotainment and safety features are available

Cons: Some complicated controls; many desirable features are optional—and significantly drive up the reasonable base prices

CG Says: Mercedes-Benz’s smallest SUV is redesigned for 2021, gaining fresh styling, improved interior space, and Mercedes’ latest high-tech features. The 2021 GLA rides on a new platform that is wider and slightly shorter than before, with a longer wheelbase and a taller roofline for notably improved passenger space (rear legroom grows by 4.5 inches). The GLA 250 is powered by a 221-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter cylinder; the high-performance AMG models also have 2.0-liter turbo engines, but they are tuned to produce 302 hp in the GLA 35 and 382 hp in the GLA 45. The lone transmission on all GLAs is an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. The GLA 250 is offered with front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive; both AMG models are AWD-only. Available safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alert with bicycle detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, evasive steering assist, lane-keep assist, speed limit assist, safe exit assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The all-new second-generation GLA is a big step above its predecessor, which put style and handling above practicality and didn’t feel particularly upscale for a Mercedes. The new GLA has more interior room, a more luxurious feel, and a more comfortable ride that makes it a more livable vehicle for everyday use.