Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with luxury, but affordability isn’t typically the first word that comes to mind. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV offers a surprising entry point into the prestigious German brand without sacrificing the quality and sophistication you expect. In a booming market of luxury subcompact SUVs, the GLA stands out not just for its features, but also for its accessible price, making Mercedes-Benz ownership a reality for a broader audience.
While anticipation builds for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA model, it’s worth exploring the current 2023 GLA to understand why it’s often considered the most budget-friendly Mercedes option. Let’s delve into what makes the GLA tick, its key features, and the level of luxury you can expect from Mercedes-Benz’s value-conscious SUV.
To ensure you receive the most reliable and current information, the data presented in this article is compiled from official manufacturer sources and reputable automotive authorities, including the EPA.
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Exploring the Value in the Mercedes-Benz GLA Trim Lineup
For those seeking the most affordable Mercedes-Benz in 2024, the current GLA models present a compelling case. As we approach the arrival of the 2024 GLA, the existing models offer exceptional value within the luxury subcompact SUV segment. They pack a wealth of features at a price point that’s hard to beat in its class.
GLA Trim Levels: Your Entry Points to Affordable Mercedes Luxury
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| GLA 250 | $37,500 |
| GLA 250 4Matic | $39,500 |
| AMG GLA 35 | $49,500 |
| AMG GLA 45 | $56,650 |
(Pricing sourced from Mercedes-Benz)
Among the four available trims, the GLA 250 and GLA 250 4Matic stand out as the most budget-conscious choices. While the AMG variants offer enhanced performance and sporty features, our focus here is on identifying the most affordable Mercedes-Benz option. Starting at an MSRP of $37,500, the GLA 250 competes admirably with other luxury subcompact SUVs like the BMW X1, BMW X2, and Audi Q3, positioning itself as a highly competitive and cheap Mercedes option in the luxury market.
Maximizing Value with the GLA 250 Options
The decision often comes down to choosing between the GLA 250 and the GLA 250 4Matic. The $2,000 price difference between the two primarily reflects the inclusion of Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system in the latter. However, the 4Matic variant also includes Mercedes’ Off-Road Engineering package, adding features like an off-road driving mode, which can be surprisingly useful in various driving conditions. If all-wheel drive isn’t a necessity for you, the standard GLA 250 offers even greater savings, making it the cheapest Mercedes-Benz SUV and an excellent value proposition.
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2024 Mercedes-GLA Performance: Efficient and Capable
The automotive industry is undeniably shifting towards hybrid and electric powertrains, moving away from purely gasoline engines. While electrification is exciting, traditional gas-powered cars remain widely accessible and preferred by many. While details on the 2024 GLA are still emerging, Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to electrification is clear. For those who appreciate the straightforward nature of gasoline power, the current GLA represents a smart choice. Notably, the current four-cylinder engine incorporates mild-hybrid technology, providing a temporary 13 horsepower boost via a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing both efficiency and performance. This makes the current GLA a potentially appealing option before Mercedes fully transitions its GLA models to hybrid or electric.
GLA Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four with mild-hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 221 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Driveline | FWD or AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.8 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 MPH |
(Specifications sourced from Mercedes-Benz)
The GLA isn’t designed to be a performance SUV, but its power delivery is refined, and the eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes. Its 0-60 mph time is perfectly adequate for daily driving, and it accelerates to highway speeds effortlessly. For those seeking a slight performance edge, the GLA 4Matic shaves a bit off the 0-60 mph time, achieving it in 6.6 seconds. While the difference might be subtle, it’s a factor to consider for those who prioritize quicker acceleration in their cheap Mercedes SUV.
GLA Fuel Economy: Balancing Performance and Efficiency
| Trim | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| GLA 250 | 26 MPG | 36 MPG | 30 MPG |
| GLA 250 4Matic | 25 MPG | 35 MPG | 28 MPG |
(Data sourced from the EPA)
Fuel economy is an important consideration for budget-conscious buyers, and the Mercedes-Benz GLA offers reasonable, though not class-leading, figures. According to EPA estimates, the GLA’s fuel economy is average compared to its competitors. The numbers indicate that the GLA performs better on highways than in city driving in terms of fuel efficiency. If maximizing fuel economy is a top priority while sticking to a budget, this is a factor to keep in mind when considering the cheapest Mercedes SUV options.
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Mercedes GLA Interior: Premium Comfort Without the Premium Price Tag
Mercedes-Benz consistently excels in interior design and quality, and the GLA upholds this reputation, even as the cheapest Mercedes SUV. The brand prioritizes premium materials and a refined experience for both drivers and passengers, and the GLA is no exception. The current generation GLA reflects Mercedes’ responsiveness to customer feedback, addressing previous concerns and enhancing interior space and comfort.
GLA Interior Comfort and Cargo Space: Practical Luxury
A common critique of the previous GLA generation was its smaller interior dimensions. Mercedes-Benz addressed this directly, resulting in a more spacious and comfortable cabin in the current model. The materials throughout the interior are consistent with Mercedes-Benz’s high standards, and the overall design is both elegant and functional.
Cargo space is also well-considered. Mercedes has thoughtfully designed the cargo area with a flush floor and sill, simplifying the loading and unloading of heavy items. The rear seats now fold completely flat, creating a seamless extension of the cargo floor for maximum space when needed, adding to the practicality of this cheapest Mercedes SUV.
GLA Technology Features: Modern and User-Friendly
The GLA features Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, a system that offers a blend of touchscreen, voice command, and touchpad controls via the center console. Standard models come with two 7.0-inch displays, one for infotainment and one for the driver’s instrument cluster. Upgradable to dual 10.3-inch displays, while not the expansive MBUX Hyperscreen found in flagship Mercedes models, it provides a comprehensive and modern tech interface.
Optional Interior Enhancements:
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Fully adjustable rear seats
- 64-color LED ambient lighting
The Premium Package further enhances the GLA’s value, adding features like Keyless Go, hands-free access, a household power outlet, and the upgraded 10.3-inch displays, making it a worthwhile consideration for those looking to maximize features in their cheap Mercedes.
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Driver Assistance in the GLA: Features Behind a Paywall
One area where cost-saving isn’t as prominent is in optional extras. Like many luxury brands, Mercedes-Benz places a premium on features not included as standard. In the GLA’s case, this includes a significant amount of driver assistance technology. While the base price makes it the cheapest Mercedes, adding these packages can quickly increase the overall cost.
GLA Safety Technology Packages
| Package | Price |
|---|---|
| Driver Assistance Package | $1,700 |
| Parking Assistance Package | $1,090 |
(Pricing sourced from Mercedes-Benz)
The Driver Assistance Package, a significant additional expense, includes advanced features like Active Distance Assist, blind spot monitoring, collision detection and avoidance, and evasive steering assist. While these are valuable safety technologies, many are becoming increasingly standard in new vehicles, leading some to expect them as standard in a Mercedes-Benz, even the cheapest model.
The Parking Assistance Package adds a surround-view system and PARKTRONIC, which provides automated parking capabilities. While these features enhance convenience, their added cost might not be justifiable for all buyers seeking an affordable Mercedes.
GLA: Affordable Entry to Mercedes-Benz
The GLA offers a high-quality interior and a range of comfort-focused features, all at a relatively accessible starting price, positioning it as the cheapest Mercedes-Benz. This makes Mercedes luxury attainable to a wider range of buyers. However, it’s important to note that some desirable driver-assistance and technology features are offered as optional packages, which can increase the final price.
Despite this, for those who prioritize traditional gas-powered engines and a luxurious experience without the highest-end tech frills, the GLA remains a compelling option. If you’re looking for a value-oriented luxury SUV and desire the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand, the GLA could be the ideal and cheapest Mercedes for you in 2024.
