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Mercedes GLA GLA 200 AMG Line Executive 5dr Auto Review

Why the overall winner won

Best small SUV

Best family car

Best small electric car

Best luxury car

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This engine could well be the sweet spot of the range. We haven't sampled it in the GLA yet but it’s our pick of the A-Class lineup, providing effortless oomph for relaxed cruising.

GLA 200

Hatchback

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

AMG Line trim mostly focuses on making the GLA look sportier, bringing 19in AMG-branded alloy wheels, a bodykit, darkened privacy glass, sports seats, metal pedals and a three-spoke sports steering wheel. Unless you really love what it does to the car’s appearance, though, we wouldn’t bother.

AMG Line

GLA 200 AMG Line Executive 5dr Auto

gla-200-amg-line-executive-5dr-auto

Driver and passenger head and side airbags

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android auto

Mercedes me connect including emergency call system, accident recovery, breakdown management and maintenance

LED high performance headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights

Childproof locks manually operated for rear doors and electrically operated for rear power windows

Remote central locking and crash sensor with emergency opening function

Alarm system with immobiliser and interior protection -Thatcham category 1

Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicators

Interior lighting with light and sight pack - GLA

Mercedes GLA

Classy, comfortable and well equipped, the Mercedes GLA is one of the better prestige family SUVs, but some rivals are cheaper and more practical.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Comfortable ride </li> <li>Feature-filled infotainment </li> <li>Space for child seats </li> <li>Robust build quality </li> <li>Practical storage spaces </li> <li>A boot fit for a family holiday </li> <li>Fuel-efficient engines</li></ul>

While we define a small SUV&nbsp;as something&nbsp;less than 4.3 metres long and a large SUV as measuring more than 4.5 metres, family SUVs tread the middle ground.

As the name suggests, the vast majority are&nbsp;designed for family duties rather than serious off-roading, so practicality is paramount. However, that&nbsp;shouldn't come at the expense of a decent drive; the best examples combine tidy handling with smooth engines&nbsp;and a ride that's comfortable&nbsp;enough to ensure the kids aren't left feeling queasy.

The Seat Ateca and&nbsp;Skoda Karoq should definitely be on your shortlist. But if you have a bit more to spend,&nbsp;the Range Rover Evoque is another strong option. If money is a concern, then the Dacia Duster provides comfortable, spacious and well-equipped transportation for an affordable price.

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Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

Mercedes GLA GLA 200 AMG Line Executive 5dr Auto Review

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41.5

495

litres

153

g/km

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