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£17,995
Take a Mk3 A-Class hatchback, tweak the styling, give it a touch more height and you're left with this – the Mercedes-Benz GLA. It's a small hatchback-based crossover that's the brand's first foray into the compact end of the market, with rivals cars such as the Audi Q2 and BMW X2. Taller, more SUV-like rivals include the Volvo XC40, pricier versions of the MINI Countryman and less expensive models within the Range Rover Evoque line-up. It's not as tall as some of its rivals and even compared with the A-Class you don't sit a great deal higher up in the GLA. It feels broadly similar to drive, too, which may place the Mercedes at a disadvantage for those buyers seeking something more obviously SUV-like.Usefully, the GLA has a bigger boot and a wider opening than the A-Class, with an extra 140 litres of space, although it's not really a car you'd describe as being super-practical. Gains in passenger headroom over its hatchback sibling are fairly negligible and the relatively low roof means it's not particularly easier to get in and out of.What the GLA is, however, is more comfortable and refined than the A-Class, albeit not anywhere near as cosseting as its rivals. It's quiet on the road – although engine noise from the diesels ekes into the cabin.Among its premium rivals (think BMW X2 and Audi Q2), the GLA boasts a competitive amount of equipment. However, cheaper rivals – such as the Toyota C-HR – come with noticeably more kit for the same money.With the 200 d and 250 d diesel engines discontinued in April 2019, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is now available with three petrols – GLA 180, GLA 200 and GLA 250 4Matic. We reckon the punchier, latter two engines are the ones to go for as the entry-level petrol can feel strained at times. A seven-speed DCT automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are also available, with both coming as standard on the GLA 250 4Matic. On the road, the GLA is more comfortable and refined than the A-Class, albeit not anywhere near as cosseting as
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