2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

If you want to stand out in a crowd or experience the world of luxury vehicles, you might want to consider the purchase of a 2021 Mercedes GLA. Designed by a brand that knows how much luxury and comfort mean to drivers, Mercedes went all out in the development of its GLA-series SUV. Practical, yet classy, this model has plenty of room for passengers and storage. Yet, it also boasts upscale accents that grab your attention.

The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA-series SUV certainly has a few competitors in its respective market, but it stands its ground well against those that want to advance over it. Continuing to add new attributes and innovative accents year after year, this SUV is ahead of its time in functionality and futuristic detailing. It is certainly a model to keep your eye on when you are on the hunt for a new SUV, and we will show you why we think this luxury model would make a good addition to your family.

What's New for 2021?

Made for a more mature type of driver, the Mercedes Benz GLA SUV is always evolving to encompass the latest designs and most innovative features. In its 2021 version, the Mercedes Benz GLA gained 3.6-inches in height and 1.2-inches in width. Also with a wider wheelbase, passengers in the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA also gained some legroom and cargo space, which is quite handy.

Within the cabin there have also been some changes to the Mercedes Benz GLA SUV. Even more modern and shiny than ever, this SUV also employs the signature MBUX infotainment system of the Mercedes brand. Augmented reality navigation is now available, too.

It's also important to note the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA SUV has seen some changes under the hood. A new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine adds 13 horsepower to the GLA's previous model year motor. Not only does this GLA model year look better than ever before, but it is also more powerful, too.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class – The Pros

1. A modern 40/20/40 rear seat split

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offers unbeatable versatility with its 40/20/40 rear seat split configuration. Passengers have the freedom to easily configure seating and cargo, allowing them to accommodate a variety of needs in an instant - making it ideal for everything from running everyday errands to longer road trips.

2. An 8-speed DCT gearbox that smooths out your ride

Not many SUVs offer this gearbox setup. With eight available speeds, you can seamlessly shift through gears as you acceleration in this SUV, which results in a ride that is smoother and more efficient.

3. An available AMG line that adds sporty appeal

If you like eye-catching aesthetics and an athletic look, the Mercedes Benz AMG GLA is the SUV model for you. With contrast stitching, colorful interior lighting, and 20-inch wheels, you can define your Mercedes as much as you want.

4. Dual-zone, double-filtered automatic climate control.

Enjoy the utmost comfort and healthy air quality in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA with its intuitive dual-zone automatic climate control. Personalized temperatures allow you to set yours, while your passenger can have their own! By monitoring ambient conditions, this system automatically adjusts temperature settings and fan speed for maximum relaxation while double filtration keeps hazardous particles like dust, pollen and odors out of the cabin altogether - giving both driver and passengers peace of mind when it comes to health & well-being.

5. A signature Mercedes Benz User Experience infotainment system setup.

Unseen in competitors, this brand-specific feature offers all the latest user-friendly tech to drivers and passengers in the front. An intuitive speech interface makes it surprisingly easy to learn and use.

6. Available Mercedes Benz navigation with live footage for guidance help.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offers a truly intuitive navigation experience with its advanced Augmented Reality (AR) Navigation. Featuring the MBUX infotainment system, this feature takes live footage from your front-facing camera and overlays contextual arrows and directions for easy guidance on streets or landmarks alike - giving you an immersive driving journey that leaves no room for confusion! You'll also benefit from features like turn-by-turn instructions, traffic updates and points of interest when paired with traditional map-based navigation.

7. An innovative 64-color ambient lighting system

Ambient lighting is a treat in most vehicles, but the Mercedes Benz GLA SUV takes it to a new level with a setup that includes 64 lighting options. To access this, you will have to opt for the upgrade with larger display screens, too.

8. Rain-sensing windshield wipers that make your drive safer.

Have you ever struggled with finding your windshield wiper control in a downpour? The GLA offers automatic windshield wipers that activate when they sense rain. You can control the speed, but just having this feature helps during heavy rain conditions.

9. Experience a modern twin-screen setup.

MBUX infotainment system offers a state-of-the art driving experience, featuring two displays in 7 or 10.25 inch sizes that provide personalized access to navigation, audio and phone connectivity settings. Natural language voice control makes accessing these controls simple for everyone - plus compatibility with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto creates an intuitive user interface perfect for customizing your ideal cabin atmosphere.

10. Heightened technology for every control.

We expect some high-tech features in the new Mercedes Benz GLA, but this SUV goes above and beyond our expectations. A 12-speaker Burmester sound system, four USB-C ports, and HD radio are all available for this model.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class – The Cons

It's difficult to find something not to love about the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA. Yet, if we had to change something about this luxury SUV, there are a few aspects we would choose first.

1. A complex MBUX system.

The MBUX system is like an advanced tech haven for modern drivers! It allows users to traverse the infotainment interface with ease and intuitiveness, which makes life simpler. No matter what your background may be - experienced or novice technology user- you'll find a way around this complex yet accessible system in no time. However, it can be quite complex to those who aren't used to advanced tech navigation.

2. Small cargo area than rivals.

Even though the 2021 version of the GLA gained some extra cargo space, it is still smaller than what competitors have to offer.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

As a leader in the luxury SUV market, there is a bit of competition among similar models. Some of the most active competitors include the BMW X2 and the Audi Q2. Classy SUVs are hot on the market right now, and the GLA leads the way for luxury while these two rivals are more practical.

2021 Mercedes GLA vs 2021 BMW X2

On the outside, the differences between the 2021 Mercedes GLA and 2021 BMW X2 are obvious. The GLA is more svelte, which the X2 is chunkier and bolder. The AMG GLA sport line competes aggressively with the X2 M Sport trim in their design elements, as well. On the inside, the 2021 Mercedes GLA is modern and stunning, while the 2021 BMW X2's cabin could use some work and updating.

Under the hood, the 2021 Mercedes GLA excels by offering a standard turbocharged engine and a hybrid option compared to the 2021 BMW X2's hybrid engine layout. Fuel economy between these two are relatively the same, as well. Going head to head in many areas, the 2021 Mercedes GLA edges over the 2021 BMW X2 in many aspects. With some updates the BMW X2 would be a fierce rival.

2021 Mercedes GLA vs 2021 Audi Q2

From their entry-level engine designs, the 2021 Mercedes GLA and the 2021 Audi Q2 separate themselves. While the GLA offers a hybrid option, there aren't even any plans the Q2 to take on this design attempt. Like the BMW X2's dated cabin, the 2021 Audi Q2 could use some enhancements.

The 2021 GLA is certainly recognizable as a Mercedes model, but it is a little more reserved than other vehicles from this brand. It is still certainly more prominent and bolder in its styling than the 2021 Q2. Overall, the better option between these two competitors is still the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, overall the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLA-Series SUV is a great option for those looking for convenience and luxury. The enhancements to the height, width, and wheelbase have greatly improved legroom as well as cargo space. It also offers luxury amenities such as an AMG trim line option, 64 ambient lighting colors and a 12 speakers burmester sound system. However, some may find the MBUX infotainment system complex to use initially due to augmented reality navigation features. Though the cargo area is smaller than most competitors’ models, this vehicle still provides excellent value with its luxurious features. This will make it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable car that meets their needs without compromising on style or comfort.