Base AMG GLA 35 4dr All-Wheel Drive 4MATIC
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA 35

STEVENSON, Wash. – At this point, just about anything could have the term "crossover" applied to it. It's inherently vague, and we've long since moved beyond the strict definition of an "SUV with a unibody platform." So if one wants to consider the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 a crossover, sure, why not?  That said, in concept and execution, the GLA 35 is really just an extra-large hot hatch. A VW Golf R for those with greater utility needs. Or luxury desires. Our test car didn't even have tinted rear windows, which is as much of a crossover staple as anything. And through that XL hot hatch lens, the AMG GLA 35 is far more compelling. It is, of course, a member of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and by extension the entire Mercedes compact front-drive family that also includes the GLB-Class, A-Class and CLA-Class. Although their base engines differ and some go without the full habanero AMG 45, all are available as an AMG 35 that shares a common 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four good for 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. They all have AMG variants of 4Matic all-wheel drive and an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual. Of course, with its greater size and weight, the GLA variant is slower than its sedan siblings, but it still rips from zero to 60 mph in a cool 5.1 seconds. That's quicker than a Honda Civic Type R. As with most 2.0-liter turbos, this one delivers immediate low-end torque and not much character. Thankfully, the GLA 35's other powertrain elements make up for that. The throttle and transmission are alive and eager to respond to your inputs, constantly engaging the driver the second you get under way. Even Comfort mode is agreeably responsive. As in other AMGs, selecting Sport+ brings aggressive downshifts under braking and a willingness to stay in a lower, to-hell-with-fuel-economy gear. At the same time, you can change gears with the chunky metal paddle shifters that move with a hefty, mechanical feel and pair perfectly with the dual-clutch's quick reflexes. And then there's the noise. Standard is the AMG exhaust system with a gas flap that modulates sound based on engine speed, load and whether you've engaged Sport+. Basically, this means that it makes cool sounds when accelerating hard. Not obnoxious nor farty, there's a sharp burble to it that makes you want to accelerate more just to hear it. In sound, sensation and straight-line speed, then, the GLA 35 satisfies the hot hatch standards. What about in corners? The AMG 35 is stiffer than the grocery-getter GLA courtesy an aluminum plate under the engine bay that increases torsional rigidity along with two additional, diagonal braces. The MacPherson strut front and four-link rear suspension feature AMG componentry and tuning throughout, most notably a front steering knuckle that features a motorsports-derived radially bolted brake caliper. AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers are fitted as standard. Besides constantly adjusting damping forces based on conditions, there are settings for each of the Comfort, Sport and …
Hide Full Review