Which used Mercedes GLA should you buy?

The Mercedes GLA SUV is based on the Mercedes A-Class hatchback, and has genuine presence thanks to its chunky looks and raised ride height.

It’s a purely road-focused vehicle in spite of its off-road styling cues, although there are versions available with four-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive 4MATIC variants simply offer the reassurance of extra grip on wet, snowy or muddy roads.

As you may expect from a Mercedes model line, the Mercedes GLA comes with plenty of engine, gearbox and specification choices. You’ll find 138PS 200d and 172PS 220d diesels that are both versions of the same 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine, plus the Mercedes GLA 200 which has a 158PS 1.6-litre petrol engine and the 214PS 2.0-litre petrol Mercedes GLA 250.

Those after a sportier machine can drool over the high-performance 386PS Mercedes GLA 45 AMG edition, too, but there are relatively few used examples around.

Although diesels have become unfashionable in recent times – and were dropped from the Mercedes GLA range in 2019 – they still make sense for drivers looking to cut their fuel costs. In fact, you can expect up to 55mpg from a reasonably carefully driven diesel Mercedes GLA. With most having automatic transmissions, they are relaxing to drive too.

Petrol engines are smoother but less frugal, so make the most sense if you don’t drive many miles. 

The car itself is relatively roomy with plenty of space for passengers and their luggage. Three adults on the back seat will be a squeeze though, and more traditionally boxy SUVs are typically a bit more spacious.

Read our full Mercedes GLA review

What used Mercedes GLA trim levels are available?

As ever with Mercedes, there’s a wide variety of trim levels, although the differences between some are relatively minor. Read on as we guide you through three of the most important ones.

Mercedes GLA SE

The Mercedes GLA SE is an entry-level model, which is reasonably well equipped. Bear in mind, though, that it won’t have sat-nav unless the car was upgraded with one of the numerous option packs Mercedes made available. Check the specification of any Mercedes GLA SE model you’re considering carefully, therefore, to ensure it has what you need.

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Leather upholstery
• Manual air-conditioning
• Eight-inch media system

Mercedes GLA Sport

The Mercedes GLA Sport model was kitted out with a series of visual upgrades over Mercedes GLA SE models. Highlights included:

• Larger alloy wheels
• Roof rails
• Tinted windows
• Automatic windscreen wipers
• Climate control

Mercedes GLA AMG Line

The range-topping Mercedes GLA AMG Line specification brings a bit of extra opulence with a comprehensive spec list. The Mercedes GLA AMG Line Premium and Mercedes GLA AMG Line Executive versions broadened things out further. While the Mercedes GLA AMG Line came with big wheels, the car rides most comfortably on the 17-inch rims that were part of the standard Mercedes GLA SE trim. If comfort is a high priority for you, this is worth taking into account.

• Leather sports seats
• Stainless steel pedals
• 19-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres

Is a used Mercedes GLA a good buy?

There’s loads of choice when it comes to high-riding, off-roader-inspired hatchbacks, but the Mercedes GLA is among the most desirable.

The combination of a desirable badge and competitive new prices meant it was an instant hit when launched, and that’s great news for anyone looking for a second-hand Mercedes GLA bargain, as there are plenty of used versions to choose from.