Business Car Manager Verdict
Compact premium-badged SUVs are definitely ‘in’ (just ask Audi with the Q3 or BMW with the X1/X3). So the Mercedes GLA is very much a car of our times and at first sight looks an absolute home run for Mercedes.
After all, what’s not to like in a stylised, convenient, car-sized crossover-meets-SUV that handles well, offers over 50mpg and looks/feels a quality item both inside and out. Coupled with one of the most coveted badges in the business….
Of course, all that comes at a price and it could be that the GLA takes some of the sales action away from the A-Class, CLA and B-Class, so it remains to be seen how that exactly pans out for Mercedes.
Of the GLA launch range, this 220 CDI is arguably the pick of the bunch. Yes, the entry 200 CDI has better/cheaper eco/BIK numbers, but the 220 CDI has more pep and is not so far off on cost. The petrol GLA 250 is the most fun but 154g/m and 42.8mpg will immediately rule it out for some.
The SE spec would also be our pick over the more overt AMG treatment, tried here, although if you want show as well as go, no doubt AMG is the way.
While some might consider the GLA a little contrived, it’s still overall a highly tempting package, built around those proven A-Class mechanicals and extensive Mercedes company car back-up. It’s exactly the kind of model the market’s hot for right now, so…watch it go.
The Low Down…
Doors and body style | 5-door hatchback/SUV |
Engine/gearbox | 2.1 litre 4-cyl turbodiesel/7-speed automatic, 4WD |
CO2 Emissions | 132g/km |
Economy | 55.4mpg |
Power/torque | 170PS/350Nm |
0-62mph/top speed | 8.3secs/134mph |
Insurance group | 29 |
…and what it costs
P11D Value | £30,850 | |
Monthly business rental (ex VAT) | From £404 (3yrs/30,000 miles) | |
Road tax (VED) | Band E | |
Company Car Tax Bands 2014/15 to 2016/17 | 22%, 24%, 23% | |
Benefit in kind (BIK) 2014/15 to 2016/17 | £6787, £7404, £7096 | |
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (20%) | £955/£80 | |
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (40%) | £1910/£159 | |
Annual/monthly company car tax (20%) | £1357/£113 | |
Annual/monthly company car tax (40%) | £2715/£226 | |
Figures correct at time of posting | ||
For latest figures | Use our company car tax calculator |