Mercedes GLA X156 (2013 – 2020)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The Mercedes-Benz GLA (X156) is the first compact SUV from the star brand, based on the MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform shared with the A-Class (W176). Closer to a raised sedan than a true off-roader, it stands out for its dynamic design, agile road handling, and premium positioning. Evolution: A facelift occurred in early 2017, bringing aesthetic touches (bumpers, LED optics), a slightly raised ground clearance as standard, an improvement in perceived interior quality, and the integration of Apple CarPlay / Android Auto. Overall Note: It is an overall reliable model, particularly with gasoline engines (M270 blocks), which avoids the pitfalls of modern diesels in urban use. Its main weaknesses lie in the rear spaciousness and suspension comfort, often deemed too firm.

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability of gasoline engines (M270) very reassuring
Dynamic road handling, close to a sedan
Exterior design that ages very well
Improved finish quality after the 2017 facelift
Effective 4MATIC system on wet/snowy roads

⚠️ Weaknesses

7G-DCT gearbox sometimes hesitant and generating jerks at low speeds
Firm suspension comfort (especially with 19-inch wheels and sport chassis)
Limited rear spaciousness and trunk volume (421 L) for the category
Imperfect sound insulation (wind noise on highway, noisy diesel engines)
Frequent parasitic noises (squeaks) in the cabin on pre-2017 models (screen, dashboard)

🎯 Verdict

The Mercedes GLA X156 is an excellent used choice if you are looking for a compact crossover with assertive styling rather than a spacious family SUV. Gasoline engines (GLA 180, 200, 250) are absolutely to be preferred: the M270 block is robust, quiet, and spared from the heavy pollution control issues of diesels. The ideal choice is a facelifted model (post-2017) in a gasoline version, which corrects early flaws (finish, gearbox jerks) and offers up-to-date technological equipment. The purchase is highly recommended, on the sole condition that the maintenance of the 7G-DCT automatic gearbox has been scrupulously respected.

Common issues

Dysfonctionnement de la boîte automatique 7G-DCT (à-coups, patinage, perte de puissance) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 2 500 – 5 000 €

Tester la douceur des passages de vitesses à chaud et à froid.

Fuites d'huile moteur (couvre-culasse, carter de distribution, carter d'huile) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 800 €

Inspecter visuellement le moteur pour toute trace d'huile.

Problèmes de turbocompresseur ou de son actuateur (perte de puissance, bruit anormal) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 €

Vérifier l'absence de perte de puissance ou de sifflement excessif.

Défaillance ou fuite de la pompe à eau Medium

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Surveiller le niveau de liquide de refroidissement et la température moteur.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Timing chain	£1 000 – 2 100
Clutch	£1 500 – 2 900
Complete brakes	£380 – 700
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.