Updated on 6/22/2023 for freshness.

If there is one thing that German automotive brand Mercedes-Benz is good at, it’s making luxury automobiles. Mercedes-Benz has become synonymous with luxury after delivering quality vehicles for decades. Benz has mastered the art of producing classy cars and SUVs, from comfortable leather interiors to the latest technological advancements. The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is being recognized as one of the most luxurious affordable SUVs to buy this year.

Mercedes-Benz is a giant in the luxury vehicle space

Mercedes-Benz has made a name for itself in the automotive industry by producing top-notch vehicles. Their SUVs usually combine comfort and performance as well as the latest tech. The beauty of the GLA is it has always been one of the automaker’s most affordable models, costing less than many of the brand’s sedan trims.

The GLA is the perfect way to experience all the luxury that a Mercedes-Benz SUV offers without breaking the bank. Not only is the GLA affordable, but it is also one of the most luxurious SUVs on the market this year. A spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and decent cargo space make this crossover an SUV worth further exploration.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is small, sporty, and surprisingly spacious

The GLA is known for being the smallest SUV that Benz has produced, but the 2021 model makes up for its lack of size with comfort, handling, and class. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class features a newly redesigned exterior giving it a more aggressive aesthetic. The new GLA is wider and taller than the 2020 model, proving it can hang with the rest of Benz’s wide array of luxury SUVs.

After years of creating an identity for itself, the GLA has finally fit in with the rest of the Benz family. Its redesign makes it almost indistinguishable from some of its more expensive cousins, both inside and out. Its interior offers legroom and leather seats one could nap on in the front row. The front seats also come with a ventilated and heated option. The back row of seats is just as comfortable and features almost 5 more inches of legroom than the 2020 model.

The GLA’s cargo space is decent for a crossover and just what consumers would expect from Benz. Wood trim and ambient lighting are optional for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class interior. Awesome airplane-inspired air vents are housed under the Mercedes MBUX Hyperscreen. The screen is controlled via touchpad, touch, steering wheel controls, or even voice.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class: Luxury at an affordable price

The Mercedes Benz 2021 GLA-Class comes standard with a 7-inch dual screen. A 10.25-inch screen is also optional. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are now standard in the GLA. LED headlights and taillights, keyless start, and paddle shifters are also standard in the 2021 model.

The GLA outclasses the Mercedes-Benz GLB in terms of sportiness and fun features, but the GLB is much roomier. The rest of the lineup of Mercedes-Benz SUVs also offer more cabin space and conventional SUV creature comforts. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class delivers on exactly what it was founded on. It’s an affordable luxury SUV that’s smaller than other Benz SUV models but still captures the spirit of class and cutting-edge technology.

Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class the most luxurious Mercedes SUV? Not by a long shot. It does, however, definitely earn a place amongst the most luxurious SUVs to buy this year. Tack on a few options, and consumers can feel like they own an expensive luxury SUV for several thousand dollars less than the average cost.