Mercedes-Benz GLA X156

GLA in brief

The GLA has been in production since 2013 and comes in two generations. Both are based on the same-generation A-Class, so the tech, engines, and much of the interior are shared. Most cars are front-wheel drive, while 4MATIC versions have all-wheel drive.

The GLA appeals to those who value the Mercedes badge, a quality interior, and easy access, but don't need a large SUV. It's primarily a city and daily commuter car: the boot and rear seat space are more in line with a compact hatchback than a large SUV.

X156 and H247 — how they differ

The first-generation X156 (2013–2019) is essentially a jacked-up A-Class hatchback with protective cladding. It's lower and more reminiscent of a small car than an SUV, and the 2017 facelift brought new bumpers, headlights, and a slightly refreshed interior. Today, it's the cheapest GLA, but often with high mileage.

The second-generation H247 (from 2020) is taller and roomier, with a higher driving position, and inside, there's the MBUX infotainment system with two screens and voice control. It's significantly more modern and safer, so for many buyers, it's the better choice if the budget allows.

2023 facelift: revised front headlights and grille, updated infotainment software, and petrol engines receive a 48V mild-hybrid system. Pre-facelift models are still more common in the used market.

Engines and gearboxes

The X156 is most commonly found with the GLA 180 and GLA 200 petrol engines (1.6 l), the more powerful GLA 250 (2.0 l), and the diesel GLA 180 d, 200 d, and 220 d. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 sport model had around 360–380 hp and all-wheel drive.

The H247 is primarily based on the GLA 180 and GLA 200 with a 1.3 l turbocharged petrol engine, the GLA 250 with a 2.0 l engine, the plug-in hybrid GLA 250 e, and the 2.0 l diesel GLA 180 d, 200 d, and 220 d. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 (around 306 hp) and GLA 45 S (around 420 hp) sport models come with all-wheel drive.

Both generations most often feature a dual-clutch automatic gearbox — 7G-DCT or 8G-DCT. A manual gearbox was only offered with some of the less powerful engines and is rarely found in the used market.

What to check when buying a used GLA

The dual-clutch gearbox should shift smoothly: juddering when pulling away, clunks, or hesitation when driving slowly in traffic can indicate a need for gearbox or control unit repair. Ask if the gearbox oil has been changed and its software updated.

Diesel cars that have done a lot of city driving should have their particulate filters (DPF) checked, and H247 diesels should also have their AdBlue systems inspected: warnings on the instrument cluster about these systems often indicate more expensive repairs. For the plug-in hybrid GLA 250 e, check that charging works and how much electricity is actually being used.

Review the service history and condition based on the technical inspection records. For the H247, check that all MBUX functions, cameras, and parking sensors are working, and for large wheels with low-profile tyres, ensure there are no curb damage marks.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; Mercedes-Benz often added extra packages, so cars with the same name can differ significantly.

Comparison of H247 generation trims

Most buyers will be best served by the Progressive or AMG Line with the GLA 200 or GLA 200 d engine. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 is worth considering only if performance is your top priority, as it's more expensive to maintain.

Frequently asked questions