Mercedes-Benz GLA engines

Since its launch in 2013, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has established itself as the Stuttgart brand's entry into the SUV world and offers a diverse Mercedes-Benz GLA engine range across two generations. The technological evolution from conventional turbo petrol engines to state-of-the-art mild hybrid and AMG systems reflects Mercedes' shift towards electrification.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Generation I (2013-2020)

The first Mercedes-Benz GLA generation was a bold step into the compact SUV segment and was characterized by a wide range of engines, from economical diesels to potent AMG variants. Mileage varied considerably depending on the engine type: while the tried-and-tested CDI diesels easily reached 350,000 to 450,000 kilometers with proper maintenance, the early turbo petrol engines often required costly repairs to the turbocharger or high-pressure pump between 150,000 and 200,000 kilometers. Major engine damage due to timing chain wear occurred if maintenance was neglected. The absolute top engine of this generation was the GLA 220 CDI with 170 hp, which optimally combined power, reliability and economy and was regarded as the benchmark for Mercedes diesel technology.

Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol engines: Generation I (2013-2020)

The Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol engine range mainly comprised four-cylinder turbo engines from the M270 and M133 series. The GLA 200 with a 1.6-liter engine produced 115 kW (156 hp) and formed the entry-level model, followed by the GLA 250 with a 2.0-liter unit and 155 kW (211 hp). These Mercedes-Benz GLA engines suffered from typical problems of the early turbo generation: high-pressure pump defects, carbon deposits on the intake valves and occasional turbocharger damage made them the most maintenance-intensive engines. The most powerful conventional Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol engine was the GLA 250 4MATIC, which, however, showed increased fuel consumption and wear on the turbocharger and ignition coils when driven in a sporty manner.

Mercedes-Benz GLA diesel engines: Generation I (2013-2020)

Proven CDI technology dominated the Mercedes-Benz GLA diesels. The GLA 200 CDI with 100 kW (136 hp) was the entry-level model, while the GLA 220 CDI with 125 kW (170 hp) offered the perfect balance between performance and efficiency. These Mercedes-Benz GLA CDI engines from the OM651 series proved to be exceptionally durable and economical - especially the variants produced from 2015 onwards with optimized common-rail injection and improved particulate filter. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 CDI developed into the most reliable engine of the entire generation with a test consumption of just 4.8 liters per 100 km and a service life of often over 400,000 kilometers.

Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG engines: Generation I (2013-2020)

The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 with its 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder (M133) initially produced 265 kW (360 hp) and later 280 kW (381 hp). This Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG engine was considered one of the most powerful production four-cylinder engines in the world, but was susceptible to turbocharger damage during intensive use and required frequent oil changes. Despite its sportiness, it proved to be surprisingly durable when properly maintained.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Generation II (2020-today)

The second Mercedes-Benz GLA generation marked a significant technological leap with complete electrification of the engine range and is considered to be significantly more mature than its predecessor. Most engines of this generation can easily reach 300,000 to 400,000 kilometers with proper maintenance, whereby the new OM654 diesels are considered to be particularly durable. Major engine damage has become rare, with only the powerful AMG petrol engines continuing to show increased wear during sporty driving. The absolute highlight was the GLA 250 e with plug-in hybrid technology - a technical masterpiece that perfectly combines efficiency and suitability for everyday use. For the first time, 48-volt mild hybrid technology was also introduced across the board, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Mercedes-Benz GLA mild-hybrid petrol engine: Generation II (2020-today)

The Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol engine range is based entirely on the new M260 engine family with 48-volt mild hybrid system. The GLA 200 with 120 kW (163 hp) and the GLA 250 with 165 kW (224 hp) have a belt starter-alternator and electric assistance. These Mercedes-Benz GLA mild hybrid engines proved to be significantly more reliable than their predecessors, with only occasional problems with the hybrid system software. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 developed into the most balanced engine of this generation - offering sporty performance with moderate fuel consumption and excellent reliability to date.

Mercedes-Benz GLA diesel engines: Generation II (2020-today)

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 d and GLA 220 d are based on the modern OM654 engine with 110 kW (150 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp) respectively. All Mercedes-Benz GLA diesels feature state-of-the-art common-rail injection with SCR catalytic converter and latest-generation particulate filter. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 d proved to be the most efficient and reliable engine of this generation, with a test consumption of just 4.2-4.8 liters per 100 km and high reliability - ideal for frequent drivers and as a towing vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz GLA plug-in hybrid: Generation II (2020-today)

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 e combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged petrol engine with a 75 kW electric motor to produce a system output of 160 kW (218 hp). With an electric range of up to 64 kilometers, this Mercedes-Benz GLA Hybrid offers solid everyday usability, but with limitations in terms of trunk space and higher weight.

Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG engines: Generation II (2020-today)

The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 with 225 kW (306 hp) and the AMG GLA 45 S with 310 kW (421 hp) represent the top end of the Mercedes-Benz GLA engine range. Both are based on the further developed M139 engine and offer impressive performance. The AMG GLA 45 S continues to hold the record as the world's most powerful production four-cylinder engine, but shows increased wear on the turbocharger and clutch when used intensively.

Conclusion: The best Mercedes-Benz GLA engines of all generations

The development of the Mercedes-Benz GLA engines clearly shows the technological progress made by Mercedes-Benz. While the Mercedes-Benz GLA diesel engines have remained reliable across both generations and have become even more economical, the petrol engines have benefited considerably from the new mild hybrid technology. The AMG variants continue to offer impressive performance, but remain high-maintenance for sporty use.

• Best Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol engine:

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 (224 hp, Generation II) with 48-volt mild hybrid system combines sporty performance with high efficiency and excellent reliability to date.

• Best Mercedes-Benz GLA diesel engine:

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 d (190 hp, Generation II) with OM654 engine offers the best combination of performance, economy and durability across both generations.

• Best Mercedes-Benz GLA hybrid engine:

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 e (218 hp, Generation II) with its electric range of 64 km and low fuel consumption for environmentally conscious drivers.

For maintenance and spare parts for all Mercedes-Benz GLA generations, AUTODOC offers a comprehensive range of original and quality spare parts with fast delivery and expert advice.

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