Summary
The Mercedes GLA 2025 is a premium compact luxury SUV that blends modern design, smart technology, and efficient performance. It comes with two engine options – a petrol-powered GLA 200 and a diesel-powered GLA 220d. Higher trims also offer Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, making it a versatile SUV for both city and highway use. For Indian buyers who want a premium badge in a compact, city-friendly size, the Mercedes GLA is one of the most stylish and practical choices in its class.
Quick Specs – Mercedes GLA (India, 2025)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.3-litre turbo petrol (GLA 200) • 1.9-litre turbo diesel (GLA 220d) |
| Power | Petrol: 161 bhp • Diesel: 188 bhp |
| Torque (Diesel) | ~400 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT / 8-speed Torque Converter (market dependent) |
| Drivetrain | FWD (GLA 200) • 4MATIC AWD (GLA 220d 4MATIC) |
| Boot Space | 420–435 litres (depending on variant) |
| Ground Clearance | ~183 mm |
| Dimensions | Length: ~4,410 mm • Wheelbase: ~2,729 mm |
| Price (Ex-showroom India) | ₹50–57 lakh (approximate) |
Introduction – Mercedes’ Smallest Luxury SUV in India
The Mercedes GLA has always been the gateway SUV into the Mercedes-Benz brand in India. Sitting below the GLC, this compact SUV is designed for urban buyers who want premium comfort without the hassle of maneuvering a bulky car in city traffic. The 2025 Mercedes GLA comes with updated styling, advanced technology, and two capable engine options that suit different driving needs.
In this review, we break down the Mercedes GLA in detail for Indian buyers. From design and interiors to performance, ride comfort, features, safety, and ownership costs – here’s everything you need to know before buying the GLA in 2025.
Exterior Design – Stylish, Bold, and Compact
A Modern Mercedes Look
The 2025 Mercedes GLA carries the brand’s signature SUV design language. It has a bold front grille with the large Mercedes star logo, sleek LED headlamps, and muscular body creases. The styling is sharp yet elegant, making it look premium from every angle.
Compact and Practical Size for Indian Roads
Unlike larger luxury SUVs, the GLA is compact enough to weave through Indian city traffic and fit into tight parking spots. At the same time, its raised ride height and SUV stance give it presence on the road. The ~183 mm ground clearance ensures that speed breakers and rough patches are not a big problem.
LED Lights and Road Presence
The SUV comes with LED headlamps and DRLs that not only look stylish but also provide excellent visibility during night drives. At the rear, slim LED tail lamps give the GLA a modern and sporty appeal.
Everyday Usability in Design
Roof rails, practical bumpers, and neatly designed alloy wheels make the GLA both functional and attractive. It strikes the right balance between being an urban SUV and a luxury lifestyle vehicle.
Interior and Features – Premium Cabin with Smart Tech
First Impressions Inside
Step inside the Mercedes GLA and you are welcomed by a premium, well-built cabin. The materials are soft-touch, the fit and finish are solid, and the dashboard looks modern. Mercedes has kept the cabin design clean and classy, with a mix of leather, chrome, and gloss elements.
Seating and Comfort
The driver and front passenger seats are supportive and provide excellent comfort during long journeys. Rear passengers get decent legroom, thanks to the extended wheelbase. While two adults can sit comfortably at the back, three may feel a bit tight on long drives.
Infotainment with MBUX System
The GLA features Mercedes’ advanced MBUX infotainment system, which is one of the highlights of the SUV. The system supports voice commands with the “Hey Mercedes” feature, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and connected car technology. The central touchscreen is intuitive and easy to use, making it convenient for both tech-savvy and casual users.
Practicality and Boot Space
With a boot capacity of around 420–435 litres, the GLA is practical enough for family luggage, grocery shopping, or weekend trips. The rear seats can fold down to expand cargo space when required, making it flexible for Indian families.
Also Read BMW X3 Review: Premium Luxury SUV with Performance and Style
Performance and Engine Options – Petrol vs Diesel
GLA 200 Petrol – Smooth and Urban-Friendly
The petrol variant is powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine that produces 161 bhp. It is refined and responsive, making it perfect for daily urban commutes. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the petrol GLA feels smooth in traffic and agile in the city.
GLA 220d Diesel – Powerful and Highway Ready
The diesel variant is the GLA 220d, which comes with a 1.9-litre engine producing around 188 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. This engine is punchy and offers strong mid-range power, making it excellent for long highway runs and overtaking. It also comes with the option of Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which adds grip and confidence on hilly terrains and slippery roads.
Transmission and Driving Modes
Both engines come with smooth automatic transmissions. The petrol uses a 7-speed DCT, while the diesel may feature an 8-speed torque converter in some markets. Driving modes such as Comfort, Eco, and Sport allow drivers to customize performance as per road and mood.
Ride and Handling – Balanced for Indian Conditions
Comfort on City Roads
The GLA is tuned for comfort, which is an advantage on Indian roads. Potholes and speed bumps are handled with ease, and passengers remain comfortable even on broken patches.
Stability on Highways
On expressways, the GLA feels stable and planted. At high speeds, body roll is well controlled, giving drivers confidence during lane changes and long-distance driving.
Steering and Braking
The steering is light in the city and weighs up nicely on highways. Brakes are responsive and backed by electronic safety aids like ABS and ESC, ensuring safe stops even in emergencies.
Technology and Safety – Modern Features for Peace of Mind
Infotainment and Connectivity
The MBUX system remains one of the best in the luxury SUV space. With wireless phone integration, voice assistant, navigation, and connected features, it brings a futuristic touch to the cabin.
Driver Assistance and ADAS Features
Depending on the variant, the GLA comes with advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These make highway driving safer and reduce driver fatigue.
Safety Equipment
Multiple airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and a strong body structure ensure passenger safety. Mercedes’ reputation for safety carries over to the GLA, making it a trustworthy choice for families.
Ownership and Value – What Indian Buyers Should Know
Price and Variants
In India, the Mercedes GLA 2025 is priced between ₹50–57 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and features chosen. On-road prices will vary by city due to taxes and insurance.
Fuel Efficiency
The petrol variant delivers mileage suited to city use, while the diesel variant offers better fuel economy on highways. Indian buyers who drive long distances will find the diesel more cost-efficient in the long run.
Maintenance and Service
Mercedes offers service packages and extended warranty options in India. Service quality is excellent in metros, but buyers should be prepared for higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream brands.
Resale Value
Mercedes cars generally enjoy strong resale value, especially if well maintained. A GLA with full service history and in good condition will hold its value better than many rivals.
Rivals and Competition
The Mercedes GLA competes with the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40 in the compact luxury SUV segment. While the BMW X1 focuses on sportiness and the Volvo XC40 emphasizes safety, the GLA’s strength lies in its stylish design, premium interiors, and tech-loaded MBUX system.
Conclusion – Should You Buy the Mercedes GLA?
The Mercedes GLA 2025 is a stylish and practical compact luxury SUV for Indian buyers. It combines premium interiors, smart technology, and versatile engine choices. The petrol GLA 200 is perfect for city dwellers who want refinement and easy driving, while the diesel GLA 220d with 4MATIC is best for highway lovers and those living in hilly areas.
While ownership costs are higher compared to mainstream SUVs, the GLA delivers the badge value, comfort, and technology that buyers expect from a Mercedes. For professionals, small families, and urban buyers who want a luxury SUV that is compact yet premium, the Mercedes GLA is a strong and sensible choice.
FAQs – Mercedes GLA 2025 India
Q1. What engine options does the Mercedes GLA offer in India?
The GLA is offered with a 1.3-litre turbo petrol (GLA 200) and a 1.9-litre turbo diesel (GLA 220d). The diesel variant also offers 4MATIC AWD.
Q2. What is the boot space of the Mercedes GLA?
The GLA offers around 420–435 litres of boot space, with foldable rear seats for added flexibility.
Q3. How much does the Mercedes GLA cost in India?
Ex-showroom prices range from ₹50–57 lakh, depending on the variant.
Q4. Is the GLA suitable for Indian roads?
Yes. The GLA’s compact size, ~183 mm ground clearance, and premium suspension tuning make it well-suited for Indian cities and highways.
Q5. Which rivals should I compare it with?
The Mercedes GLA’s closest rivals are the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40.
