Mercedes is bringing back the GLA-Class for the 2023 model year as a carryover. As this compact SUV just got a redesign in 2021, it should remain mostly the same. That doesn’t mean this vehicle should be overlooked, however, as there is still plenty to offer.
The 2023 GLA-Class has a stylized look that consists of a grille that is split horizontally with a chrome bar, raised lines on the hood, and chrome inserts on the bumpers, while the bodyside cladding, wheel well, and rear bumper are all black. On the inside, it seats five, with a 40-20-40 split bench second row. With these rear seats folded, the cargo area expands from 15.4 cubic feet to 50.5 cubic feet. The front seats are 8-way power-adjustable and heated. The upholstery comes available with leatherette or simulated suede trim which matches the door trim. The floor is carpeted and the dashboard can have an aluminum, wood, or carbon fiber insert.
For tech, the base trim of the GLA comes with two 7-inch displays that can be upgraded to 10.3-inches. The vehicle has an MBUX radio, a 6- or 12-speaker audio system with a 590W amp, three power outlets, internet access, and an express open/close sunroof.
There’s only one powertrain option that Mercedes has given the new GLA and that is a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. This produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy for this is an estimated 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
Unsurprisingly, Mercedes has given the 2023 GLA plenty of safety equipment. The list of standard and available feature includes day/night and auto-dimming rearview mirrors, cruise control, ties to secure cargo, a tire mobility kit, dual-zone climate control, child-lock rear doors, eCall Emergency System, Active Emergency Stop Assist, automatic active parking assist, augmented reality for navigation, rain-detecting windshield wipers, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, rear-seat passenger sensor, and a tracker system if the car gets lost or stolen.
