Used 2019 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG GLA

The 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is the alter ego to the GLA250 subcompact SUV (see separate review). Where the regular GLA is a charming little crossover SUV that acts as the gateway to the German luxury brand’s SUV lineup, this variant from Mercedes’ AMG high-performance division is the wild-child brother. Though the AMG GLA45 looks similar to the standard model, it is built to be a blast. Key to that is its handcrafted, turbocharged 4-cylinder that packs 375 horsepower and enables a 4.3-second 0-60-mph time. This powerful SUV also gets upgraded hardware for better handling and braking, not to mention more luxurious interior features. All this performance comes at price. At over $53,000, the AMG GLA starts nearly 20 grand beyond the standard model.

The 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is similar in spirit to its CLA45 compact 4-door sibling, which uses the same engine. While that subcompact-coupe-shaped sedan can sprint to 60 mph a hair faster, the GLA has a higher seating position and the added practicality that comes with a sport-utility vehicle. Compared to other AMG models, the GLA45 feels youthful but at times a bit frenetic. Wringing 375 ponies from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is a loud affair, and for better or worse is linked to a turbocharged rush. Also for better or worse, this performance SUV begs you to be a deviant. We loved the initial rush of acceleration, but the Mercedes-AMG GLA45’s stiff suspension and boosted personality can take its toll if all you want is a comfortable commute. With its tidy size and shorter wheelbase, the AMG GLA45 can feel nervous at higher speeds.

As with the standard GLA subcompact-crossover SUV, the AMG version features a 2-row/5-passenger configuration that can best be described as cozy. Front-seat passengers are treated to supportive seats, but space — especially legroom — is seriously compromised at just 27.1 inches. While the AMG GLA’s main mission is performance, like the standard model it has more than a semblance of utility. Behind the rear seats is just over 17 cubic feet of cargo space, which is about the same as the trunk of a large sedan. Fold the rear seats, however, and it creates a usable 43.6 cubic feet. Genuine leather upholstery can be had in place of the faux MB-Tex upholstery, but it costs extra. Flashes of performance are evident in the red seatbelts, and for an even racier feel, Recaro performance front seats can be had.

The Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is similar in form to the base GLA250, but there are some giveaways to its high-performance nature. Among them are the GLA45’s aerodynamic lower bodywork, quad exhaust outlets and an AMG-specific grille. For 2019, 20-inch wheels are now standard, with 19-inch wheels remaining available as a no-cost option. If you want a more pronounced way of showcasing this crossover SUV’s performance chops, there’s the optional AMG aerodynamics package that bundles a rear wing spoiler, larger front splitter and other racer-esque aesthetic treatments. Two cool options are the LED logo projectors, which beam the Mercedes emblem onto the ground from the mirrors, and the illuminated Mercedes badge up front.

AMG DYNAMIC PLUS PACKAGE
Call this the "go-big-or-go-home" option on the AMG GLA. This package bundles even sportier suspension with 2-stage damping, limited-slip front differential, "race mode" in drive settings and a raised top speed to 167 mph.

THAT ENGINE
This is the primary reason you shell out roughly $20,000 beyond a standard GLA. The AMG variant packs the most powerful 4-cylinder currently in a production vehicle. Good for 375 horsepower, it enables the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GLA45 to do 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

In addition to the high-performance engine, all-wheel drive and hardware that ranges from upgraded brakes to sport exhaust, the 2019 AMG GLA45 includes 14-way-power driver’s seat with memory positioning, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, hands-free power tailgate, auto-dimming driver-side and rearview mirrors, and universal garage remote. On the infotainment front, this Mercedes performance SUV includes an 8-inch digital display and AM/FM/CD/HD Radio system with two USB ports and Bluetooth streaming. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration is available, but you’ll have to pay extra for either as a stand-alone option or via the Multimedia package. Safety features include blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a system that monitors for driver drowsiness. Also included is three years of the Mercedes me Connect Services, which lets you use your smartphone to control and monitor certain aspects of the vehicle.

Various AMG packages can enhance both the design and performance of the new GLA45. Other notable options include navigation, panoramic sunroof, a 450-watt Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, and leather interior. As mentioned, if you want Apple CarPlay or Android Auto phone integration — and you do — you’ll have to pay at least $350 extra. The Driver Assistance package bundles radar cruise control and active lane-keeping assist, while the Parking Assist package adds a 360-degree rearview camera system that helps you back into a space and parallel park. Also optional is an in-car Wi-Fi system.

The heart of the Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is a small but mighty, handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that makes 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This prodigious power is transmitted through a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission. Unlike the regular GLA in which front-wheel drive is standard and 4Matic all-wheel drive is optional, all AMG GLA versions have the 4Matic system, and an AMG-enhanced one at that with torque vectoring. As with more and more new cars, the AMG GLA uses an Eco Start/Stop system that shuts off the engine at idle, such as stoplights. If you find the restarts too abrupt or just don’t like the act of your engine stopping, the system can be defeated at the press of a button.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
375 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
350 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/28 mpg