“It is a good mix of sportiness and functional utility. With the solid quality I expect from Mercedes.”
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA received a light mid-cycle refresh, not a full redesign. The main change was updated styling, supported by more standard convenience technology.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA
1st generation (US 2015-2020), mid-cycle refresh year.
Mercedes positioned the GLA as a city-friendly luxury SUV with more sporty feel than traditional small crossovers. The brochure leans on urban agility, weekend-trip usefulness, and Mercedes design, while reviewers consistently note that it drives more like a tall hatchback than a conventional SUV. For most shoppers, the GLA’s appeal is its compact size, strong turbo power, upscale cabin feel, and easier maneuverability compared with roomier but less playful rivals.
The GLA 250 is a small luxury SUV with a sporty, car-like feel, a 208-hp turbo four-cylinder engine, and an 8-inch center display. The GLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive, a dedicated off-road mode, downhill speed control, and an off-road information display for extra traction and versatility.
What changed, by category
Styling
Mercedes revised the grille, front and rear bumpers, wheel designs, and LED taillamps.
Safety
A rearview camera became standard across the lineup.
Technology
A larger 8-inch center display, clearer gauge graphics, a power liftgate, and remote start became standard.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Dual-Clutch | Auto, 7-Spd Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 208 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 43.6 cu-ft | 43.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.1 in | 27.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA fully redesigned?
No. The 2018 GLA received a light mid-cycle update with revised exterior details, cabin display updates, and more standard equipment. It remained part of the first generation sold in the US from 2015 through 2020.
Did the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA get a new engine?
No. The 2018 GLA kept its 208-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
What equipment became standard on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA?
A rearview camera, power liftgate, remote start, and larger 8-inch center display were standard for 2018. The gauges also received clearer graphics.
What is the difference between the 2018 GLA 250 and GLA 250 4MATIC?
The 2018 GLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive and equipment aimed at slippery roads and light-trail driving, including an off-road mode, downhill speed control, and an off-road display. Both versions use the same 208-hp turbo engine and 7-speed automatic transmission.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA.
4.1
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA
(305 reviews)
“It has a very low roof and each time you start the car you must turn off the eco button.”
“Great vehicle for travel with adequate storage in a relatively small SUV. Comfortable. With an amazing turning radius that is especially helpful in Florida where U-turns are a way of life.”