“Rough suspension, in-city mpg is dicey w/o using the auto restart feature but can easily push touring mpg to 30+ish. Otherwise this is truly a great car. I love driving it, and when I do I don't want to stop when we get to our destination.”
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA is a full second-generation redesign. Its biggest change is a taller, roomier body, while the 302-hp GLA 35 expands the range and the 382-hp GLA 45 gets upgraded performance hardware.
About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA
2nd generation, first year; complete redesign with the GLA 35 newly added to the US range
Mercedes-AMG positions the GLA as a small performance SUV that combines strong acceleration and sharp cornering hardware with the seating, cargo access, and all-weather traction of a compact crossover. Its core distinction is serious AMG performance in Mercedes-Benz’s smallest SUV format: turbocharged engines, quick-shifting transmissions, tuned all-wheel drive, adjustable suspension, stronger brakes, and a technology-focused cabin.
The 2021 AMG GLA lineup covers two levels of compact performance SUV. The GLA 35 is the more approachable model with 302 horsepower and all-wheel drive, while the GLA 45 has a handcrafted 382-hp engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system that can shift power between the rear wheels for sharper cornering. Both have three-stage adjustable suspension, performance brakes, and dual 10.25-inch displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic became standard across the lineup. The GLA 35 joined with a 302-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the GLA 45 received a 382-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and fully variable all-wheel drive that can shift power between the rear wheels.
Styling
A taller, roomier, more SUV-shaped body replaced the first-generation design.
Tech
Both trims gained dual 10.25-inch displays, a newer touchscreen interface, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Structural
The second-generation platform brought a reinforced structure and more passenger and cargo room. Three-stage adjustable sport suspension became standard on both AMG trims.
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch | Automatic, 8-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 382 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 50.5 cu-ft | 50.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Head-Up Display | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA a new generation?
Yes. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA begins the second generation with a complete redesign, including a taller and roomier body, updated performance hardware, and a new digital cabin.
How does the 2021 AMG GLA differ from the 2020 model?
The 2021 AMG GLA is a major redesign rather than a light update. It has a more SUV-shaped body, more interior room, an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic, three-stage adjustable suspension, and dual 10.25-inch displays.
What is the difference between the 2021 AMG GLA 35 and GLA 45?
The 2021 AMG GLA 35 is the less extreme version with 302 horsepower and variable-torque all-wheel drive. The GLA 45 has 382 horsepower and a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that can move power between the rear wheels to improve cornering response.
Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Every 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through its touchscreen infotainment system, paired with dual 10.25-inch displays.
Is the 2021 AMG GLA worth considering over the 2020 model?
Yes, especially if you value more cabin room, a more SUV-like shape, newer touchscreen technology, or updated performance hardware. The 2021 model is a full redesign, so its changes are much broader than a typical annual update.
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA.
4.0
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA
(58 reviews)
“Very good performance and useful space. Very little compromise between performance and being a CUV.”
“Sin duda lo recomendaría por la excelencia en el manejo y en lo económico de combustible.”