Mercedes-Benz GLA

Compact SUV / crossover · 2014 to present

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a compact SUV that has been sold in the UK since 2014, giving buyers a raised-ride-height alternative to the A-Class hatchback. The original X156 generation ran until 2020, when it was replaced by the current H247 model, which adopted a taller, more conventional SUV silhouette rather than the sloped-roof crossover look of the first version. UK buyers can choose from petrol and diesel engines across most of the range, with a GLA 250e plug-in hybrid also offered for those wanting lower benefit-in-kind costs or short electric-only journeys. Trim levels follow typical Mercedes naming such as Sport, AMG Line and AMG Line Premium, with four-wheel-drive 4MATIC versions available on higher-powered variants. The GLA competes with rivals like the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Volvo XC40, and is commonly found as a used buy with full main-dealer service history.

Fuel and powertrain options

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel Plug-in hybrid

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the Mercedes-Benz GLA. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Check front suspension bushes and subframe mounts for wear or corrosion, as compact SUVs can suffer from knocking noises over time
Inspect tyres for uneven wear across the tread, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues on raised-ride-height models
Test all dashboard warning lights and infotainment functions, since electrical or software faults have been noted on some examples
Examine brake discs and pads for scoring or corrosion, particularly on cars used mainly for shorter urban journeys
On diesel models, check the exhaust and DPF system for warning lights or excessive smoke, especially after short-trip use

Frequently asked questions

What body styles and fuel types does the Mercedes-Benz GLA come in?

The GLA is sold as a five-door compact SUV with petrol, diesel and, from the second generation, a plug-in hybrid option. Four-wheel-drive 4MATIC versions are available on certain higher-powered variants.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLA still available new in the UK?

Yes, the current GLA generation remains on sale in the UK, so it can be bought new or sought out as a nearly-new used example from main dealers.

What should I look out for when checking a used GLA's MOT history?

Review the full DVSA MOT history online for patterns of recurring advisories, particularly around suspension, brakes or tyres, and check that mileage readings are consistent year on year.

Are reliability figures or fault rates available for the GLA?

We do not publish invented reliability statistics here. For accurate, vehicle-specific information, always check the official DVSA MOT history and gov.uk vehicle records for the car in question.

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