2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 250

The GLA is Mercedes' entry-level SUV, the smallest crossover in the lineup and the one you cross-shop with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. It's a nimble little SUV that feels more like a hatchback than a truck, which makes it a joy to hustle around town. The cabin is snug but well put together, with a modern dual-screen setup and plenty of tech for the size. Cargo space is tight for the class, so if you regularly haul big loads, you'll want to look at the GLB instead. The GLA 250 is the one to pick if you want the smallest Mercedes SUV with the lowest starting price; the GLA 35 AMG adds a lot more power for about eleven grand more. Its 2.0L I4 makes 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, routed through an eight-speed automatic to the front wheels, and it'll return 28 mpg combined. The standard 18-inch wheels and run-flat tires mean a firmer ride than you might expect from a luxury crossover, but the trade-off is no spare tire to eat into cargo space.