The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a small 2-row luxury SUV fresh from a complete redesign for the 2021 model year. This means changes for 2022 are minimal, limited to a few new color and trim options, plus the standard fitment of a front USB-C outlet.
The 2022 GLA is available in three main trim levels, the GLA 250, AMG GLA 35, and AMG GLA 45. The base GLA 250 comes in front-wheel-drive format (FWD), though all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional for approximately $2,000. Mercedes calls its AWD system “4Matic.”
Opting for either of the two AMG variants gets a GLA shopper AWD as standard, not to mention impressive performance thanks to their potent turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. The range-topping AMG GLA 45 needs only 4.3 seconds to accelerate from zero-to-60 mph.
That’s impressively quick, though the price of this model is many thousands more than what you’d pay for the perfectly capable entry-level GLA. Then again, if you want a small premium SUV that’s easy to park, has two rows of roomy seating, and can humble many sports cars in a straight-line battle, the AMG could be worth the extra outlay.
Let’s explore what all three trims of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA have to offer anyone shopping for a small luxury SUV.
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 ($36,400)
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and GLA 250 4Matic are the same basic luxury SUV, except the “4Matic” means AWD is fitted. This boosts the base price of the GLA 250 by about $2,000.
No matter which wheels are being motivated, power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that delivers 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
This is enough to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds in the GLA 250 in FWD format, or 6.6 seconds with AWD added.
What does a 2022 GLA 250 shopper get for $36,400?
Well, to start, a significantly updated model from previous years, since the GLA lineup was totally redesigned in 2021. That’s why changes this model year are limited to a few color and trim changes and minor shuffling of features in option packages.
At the time of writing, Mercedes-Benz had not announced official pricing for its 2022 cars and SUVs. All prices listed here are based on the 2021 model year, minus any destination fee.
The GLA has two rows of seating and approximately 15 cubic feet of cargo space behind the split-folding second row. With this folded, space expands to about 50 cubic feet in total. That’s a solid amount of room for a vehicle the size of the GLA.
Inside, the driver is greeted by a 7-inch infotainment screen that’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is also a 6-speaker stereo, four USB outlets, Bluetooth, and HD radio.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, driver drowsiness monitor, and safe exit warning. This last feature alerts occupants if another vehicle or cyclist might be approaching undetected from the vehicle’s rear.
A total of 12 additional active safety features are included in the Driver Assistance Package, which is available on all three trims for approximately $1,700. Among other features, it includes evasive steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot assist.
Buyers can also upgrade the infotainment system to a 10.2-inch screen coupled with a 10.2-inch digital instrument display ahead of the driver. Navigation with speed limit assist and enhanced video for navigating are also offered and come as part of the aptly-named Multimedia Package, which costs an additional $1,295 (estimated).
There is no shortage of ways to enhance the GLA 250. Stand-alone features include a head-up display, Burmester audio system, wireless smartphone charging pad, adaptive dampers, SiriusXM, keyless entry, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel 64-color ambient interior lighting.
A buyer who finances $37,450 ($36,400 plus a destination charge of $1,050) for 60 months at a 3% interest rate with no money down at signing will pay $673 monthly. See 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 models for sale
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 includes:
- Space – The recent redesign of the GLA carved out more passenger space in the first and second rows.
- Easy to park – The small size and agile steering make the GLA ideal for city driving.
- All-season grip– 4Matic AWD provides added grip and slightly quicker acceleration.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 ($47,950)
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA takes the same small luxury SUV blueprint as the standard model and adds more, specifically a lot more horsepower! Under the hood is a 302-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder coupled to AWD and a 9-speed automatic transmission.
The brakes are larger, and the suspension has been engineered for a firmer and sportier feel. All in all, the AMG powertrain trims the zero to 60 mph time to 5.1 seconds.
Available options and option groupings related to safety items and infotainment upgrades are largely a carryover from what’s offered on the GLA 250 – though the larger digital gauge display and infotainment screen are standard in the AMG models.
In case making a splash in traffic is a priority, wheels ranging from 18- to 20-inches in diameter are available, along with AMG exterior trim that includes a deeper front air intake, resculpted lower sides, twin chrome tailpipes, and gloss-black exterior accents.
A buyer who finances $49,000 ($47,950 plus a destination charge of $1,050) for 60 months at a 3% interest rate with no money downAn AMG GLA 35 buyer who finances $47,950 for 60 months at 3% interest and pays zero money down at signing will pay $880 monthly. See 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 models for sale
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 35 includes:
- Turbo engine boost – Output jumps from 221-hp in the GLA to 302-hp in the AMG 35 model.
- AWD – Mercedes’ 4Matic system is standard.
- Hardware upgrade – The brakes are larger, and the suspension has been tuned to be sportier and firmer.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 ($54,950)
At the top of the range, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 ups performance even higher thanks to its 382-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder and standard AWD powertrain.
This provides the GLA with intense speed and straight-line performance, though it does add considerably to the price. Riding on standard 19-inch alloys, the AMG GLA 45 can be equipped with wheels ranging up to 21 inches in diameter.
The AMG GLA 35 also sports a more aggressive front grille, including a more pronounced lower air intake.
Inside, optional features like heavily bolstered front bucket seats and several choices of AMG-designed multi-function steering wheels are available.
A buyer who finances $56,000 ($54,950 plus a destination charge of $1,050) for 60 months at a 3% interest rate with no money down at signing will have a monthly payment of $1,006. See 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 models for sale
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 includes:
- Acceleration – This is the fastest of the GLA models and needs only 4.3 seconds to sprint from zero to 60 mph.
- AMG cabin trim – AMG-specific steering wheels and sport seats are available.
- Larger infotainment screen – Like the AMG GLA 35, the GLA 45 comes standard with a 10.2-inch gauge display with a 10.2-inch infotainment screen alongside it.
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