Though Mercedes-Benz calls it an SUV, the GLA is every bit a hatchback, and its sportier variants more than earn their “hot-hatch” title. Now a few years into its second generation, Mercedes updates the GLA with a fresh exterior design, improved infotainment, and a mild-hybrid powertrain. The AMG-tuned GLA 35 also gets a mild-hybrid system, along with a few interior updates.
The standard GLA comes with one powertrain option and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 gets a hotted-up version of that powertrain and standard AWD. All 2024 Mercedes GLA variants will arrive on dealers’ lots later in 2023.
The GLA’s tidy hatchback shape gets a slight update for 2024 with a new grille design and an updated hood. The grille features a prominent horizontal fixture, while the lower bumper features vertical louvers. Mercedes refreshed the GLA’s bumper and headlights, and the hood features sporty power bulge shapes. A new Starling Blue Metallic paint color and three new wheel designs are available in sizes between 18 and 20 inches.
The new GLA’s cabin gets more subtle changes, including a new digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen. A Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel comes standard, and a heated steering wheel is available with the AMG Line package for the first time. Buyers can choose between black and beige interior colors. At the same time, the AMG Line package brings synthetic leather and suede upholstery with four available color choices, including black, brown, grey/black, and red/black.
The AMG GLA 35 gets an updated steering wheel with drive-mode selection buttons. New sport seats come wrapped in grey/black synthetic leather or red/black leather, and AMG Performance seats are available.
Mercedes equips the standard GLA with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It has a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that can temporarily boost output by up to 13 hp. It also enables engine-off coasting in limited situations and can help supply power to the vehicle’s 12-volt system. An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) sends power to the front or all four wheels.
The AMG GLA 35 gets a massaged version of that engine, producing 302 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. An 8-speed DCT and sport-tuned AWD come standard, and Mercedes claims a 5.1-second zero-to-60-mph time for the GLA 35. AMG cars’ names change depending on the powertrain. In previous years, Mercedes-AMG offered a GLA 45 with a hand-built 4-cylinder engine, similar to older 63-series models of the C-Class and E-Class cars. The GLA 35 and all other 35-series cars carry “AMG-enhanced” engines that produce more power than the entry-level powertrains but are not hand-built.
Safety equipment in the 2024 GLA carries over from the previous model, which means a surprisingly generous list of standard features. Mercedes equips automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, a driver monitoring system, forward-collision warning, LED exterior lighting, rear cross-traffic warning, and a rearview camera. An available driver-assistance package brings active versions of many safety features and adaptive cruise control.
The previous GLA came standard with small 7-inch displays that buyers could upgrade with 10.25-inch units. Mercedes moves up to the larger size for standard equipment in 2024 and installs the latest version of its MBUX infotainment system. The driver can switch between display modes that include classic, sporty, and discreet, which minimizes distraction. Wireless
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the GLA gets additional USB inputs for 2024.
Buyers looking at the GLA may also consider the BMW X1, which isn’t as sporty but has better tech and features. The Volvo XC40 is a fantastic alternative that offers more standard features and a less flashy but more practical interior. The Mazda CX-50 is a new SUV that brings an upscale experience and the brand’s typically engaging driving experience at a much lower starting price.
Mercedes-Benz is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of March 17, 2023, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to JDPower.com, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.
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