“A great personal vehicle for driving solo, a fun car to drive regarding performance or handling, enough features to be enjoyable and safe, flexibility with storage and access to that storage, ease of entry and enough comfort for carrying extra passengers”
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA received a mid-cycle refresh, led by redesigned front and rear styling and updated cabin displays. Its 375-hp engine and other performance hardware carried over without major changes.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA
1st generation (X156), mid-cycle refresh year
Mercedes-AMG positions the GLA 45 as a compact performance SUV with the speed and handling character of a high-powered hatchback. Its defining appeal is the combination of a hand-built turbo engine, quick dual-clutch transmission, performance-focused AWD, and useful rear hatch in a small footprint. It is aimed at drivers who value acceleration and sharp road manners more than traditional SUV ride height or cargo space.
The sole GLA 45 4MATIC trim is a small performance SUV with a hand-built 375-hp turbo four-cylinder engine, a quick-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, and performance all-wheel drive. AMG suspension, brakes, exhaust, and bodywork give it a sportier character, while four doors, a rear hatch, and an 8-inch central display support everyday use.
What changed, by category
Styling
Mercedes reshaped the front and rear bumpers and revised the grille, headlamps, and rear diffuser.
Tech
The standard central display grew from 7 inches to 8 inches, the instrument cluster received new dials and graphics, and remote start became standard.
Safety
The rearview camera became standard equipment.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 375 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 43.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.1 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Park Assist | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| 360 Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Roof Rails | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Remote Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA compared with the 2017 model?
The 2018 AMG GLA received refreshed front and rear styling, an 8-inch standard central display in place of the previous 7-inch screen, updated instrument graphics, a standard rearview camera, and standard remote start.
Was the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA fully redesigned?
No. The 2018 AMG GLA received a mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign, so its underlying structure and main performance hardware carried over.
Did the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA gain more power?
No. The 2018 AMG GLA retained its 375-hp 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and performance all-wheel-drive system.
Does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA have a larger screen than the 2017 model?
Yes. The 2018 AMG GLA has a standard 8-inch central display, replacing the 7-inch screen used for 2017.
Is a rearview camera standard on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA?
Yes. The rearview camera became standard equipment on the 2018 AMG GLA after being optional for 2017.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA.
4.4
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA
(12 reviews)
“It is a good mix of sportiness and functional utility. With the solid quality I expect from Mercedes.”
“This is an enthusiast's car. not for the light of heart. If you want to feel the Beast within. this is your ride”