Well after 3 years of waiting, i finally owned the late 2016 version of this car with the same interior spec and mine comes with the wings, mountain grey color, AMG driver package and a 20” wheels . It’s an amazing car with a lot of grip and confidence on the road + it sounds way louder in real life than in the video. I drove it from Zurich to Frankfurt and back and it was just smoking the other cars on the road. The only drawback from owning this car is how fast the fuel disappears 🤣🤣
@@SuperSmoovy I DIY most of the things which makes it cheaper ( Just regular Service ) I never had any mechanical issues so far but the service of the Gearbox will be due soon and that I need to bring it to the dealership which will be a long had deep into my pocket 😩😩
I bought a 2017 GLA45 AMG in Jupiter Red with all the fixings (LSD, Aero Package , Recaro Seats, blah blah) 2.5 years ago. Ended up selling it and trying various Porsche products. The amg made such an impact that when my exact vehicle came out for sale again (magically) I scooped it up within 2 hours of it being listed. I won't make that mistake again!
If I may, looking at a 2018 Macan GTS v a 2018 GLA AMG both with 85,000km but $23,000 less for Merc, your thoughts? Test drive both, both were rockets! 🚀, the AMG is fully loaded with wing etc
@@spittinvenom9843 Funny enough, I traded in my 2017 Macan GTS for the AMG. I also had a 2016 Macan Turbo. Both were great vehicles BUT not as special as the GLA45 AMG. Not to mention both Macans had various issues over my ownership. I bought CPO (certified pre owned) or I would have been out a good chunk of money. Get the AMG and save yourself the $$$. You are not getting more car for that much extra $. The only thing Porsche did better was the interior. Although, mine has the Recaros and they are a must! I have had ZERO issues with the GLA over 25,000km. Regular maintenance and go. I also drive the snot out of mine and it has seen several 100 miles on the track.
This is a car more people should be interested in.. When you are too old or want something nicer than a Ford or Subaru or Honda.. But not so boring.. Also v60 polestar
Have owned one for two years now, I am the only one in the car 90% of the time and I have been loving it, you can cruise in comfort mode or when you feel like it in the sports + mode. I really love just cruising in it as the stereo is just amazing with the right tunes.
This review changed my life! I bought this car a few weeks ago, a 2018, white, with similar options. No aero kit either but night package is just right on the white. Have been shopping for two years and this review pointed me...I liked a focus RS, but too expensive, and plastic/cheap feeling. Type R was nice, but too racy looking (for the wife at least). Very happy with my purchase. Apple car play helps the tech work just good enough. I use it for a daily driver. Have child seats in the back. Hoping to take it to the track in future, and get winter wheels and tires for snow sports. Very versatile. Apple CarPlay helps the tech work just good enough, despite not being a touch screen.
Jeff Worthington I’m thinking about buying this car, a 2018, but I’ve heard the ride is super rough and the transmission is weird at slow speeds/starting from stop. I have a 2015 golf r right now but thinking about upgrading. Any advice?
You guys know how to review a car. I think it's because of your enthusiasm. Great job on all your videos. You guys have fun with the cars , clearly. The conversations make your videos unique !
My wife took the push to start button off and only uses the key because she would park and the auto start/stop would turn the car off. She would forget to actually turn the car off with the button so the car would turn itself back on and off the whole time she parked.
Where would you rank the GLA45 AMG? Also thanks to our early video access Patreon supporters Michael H, Sean R, Amin F, Oliver U, Arthur E, David C, Israel C, Madison K, Vinay B, Luke M, De Kun L, James M, Paul B, Julian M, Graeme P, Ethan L, Charles E, Pavo B, LeaseCosts Canada, Stephen Y, Edgarson R, Ryan J, Curtis K, Kevin D, Robert P, Tony B, Ben M, Allen G, Andrew R, Nick L, Joe, Waleed M, Hyogo M, Omar, J, Paul B, Matt W, Bill B, Kelvin K, Carlos L, James C, Josiah R, Forrest W, Carlos S, Kevin S, Jeremy S, Bill C, Brad M, Eli G, Jayanth N, Christopher B, Christopher H, 10ShapedFist, Phuong N, Santhosh B, Peter S, MK, Andy B, Casey A, Rob J, Kevin D, Romain B, Andrew L, Jayjay S, Emil, Christopher K, Alex S, Colton H, Artur N, Alexander M, Edward A! Check out the cool rewards at www.patreon.com/thestraightpipes
For the pop per se it's worthy. I can pop 50 times per day. Assuming I drive 300 days per year and I drive that for 4 years, each pop is less than 1 US dollar.
@@farmer-fades9216Yes. I daily drive a 2015 GLA45 and only had one hiccup so far. Had to replace thermostat housing, which was covered under warranty. Best daily I’ve ever owned, and this is my 3rd AMG
You guys hit the nail on the head. When it came time to replace my 10 year old, 175k mile, Stage 2 WRX, I thought I'd get a more age appropriate sedan, and looked at the Alfa Giulia. Great car. Only problem, couldn't hear it. Decided that I really liked hot hatches and was on my way to test drive a Focus RS, when I stopped in at the MB dealer. It was love at first sight, or, rather, love at first sound. I've since put 25k miles on it and still get a kick every time. Got mine with the wing, 20 inch wheels and the sport suspension option. For me, it's a near perfect car.
I’d take the GLA45 over the Focus RS or any others on your list too! You said it right that it’s much more refined than all the other hot hatches! Great review guys thanks! 👍🏻
I got a 2016 version of this that's all blacked out, aero kit, 20 inch wheels, Recaro seats. Here are my thoughts: Pros: - Absolute BLAST to drive! It sounds, moves, and looks fast and cool and I catch myself looking back at it often. - Fastest stock hot hatch in North America! - Decently practical, certainly better than the hot compact sedans with similar power. - Good Harmon Kardon sound system. - Sticks to the road like some serious performance vehicles, gives excellent feedback through the wheel - The turbo lag is there but the wait is very worth it, you get whacked over the head with boost and it's so childishly entertaining. - Performance exhaust is a must have, it echoes nicely in the interior. - Recaro seats are fantastic sport seats, and the bolstering is the best among hot hatches. - DCT shifts like a monster Cons: - Interior is cool...but Mercedes makes more luxurious interiors at this price point, there are a lot of cheap plastics and they're sadly in places you touch and notice. Essentially you're paying for the powertrain, not a particularly luxurious interior. It's on par with a Golf R in fit and finish and leagues beyond the cheap Focus RS. - 20 inch wheels are pretty rough if you don't have pristine roads everywhere, I would personally go with the 19 inch wheels. - The Recaro seats may be cool, but don't make it the best road trip car, especially paired with 20 inch wheels. Wind noise and NVH is in line with Golf Rs, Civic Type Rs, and such. - DCT is in its element at speed, not at slow speeds; it's jerky around the parking lot and it is really this transmission, other dual clutches are smoother where this one is jerky. - This may be a 2.0L 4 cylinder, but it honestly drinks like a powerful V6. If you really thrash it can get mid teens in MPG, and sadly it's not super efficient on the highway either, cruising at 80 mph only returns 26 MPG for me on average. Don't expect it to have any efficiency increases due to only having 4 cylinders. - It's a real AMG and thus servicing costs more than a typical Mercedes, be sure to keep it maintained/serviced regularly with proper fluids and parts. Verdict: It's the best hot hatch you can buy west of the Atlantic, plain and simple. It isn't a road trip car, but can haul you and the family and your things around town and be a blast while doing it. It adds a lot of spice and joy to a commute, but it won't relax you after a long day and is a bit hardcore even in its softest settings. This is a more luxurious hot hatch for younger drivers and if you want one car that can do a lot, this is a solid option. But for the same money you could get a comfy used SUV or wagon and spend the rest on a two-seater sports car that will do what this does just as well.
I see these everywhere on the road lately and am so disappointed on how quiet and slow people drive them. I just want to hear the pops and stuff. The car looks amazing in person. Great review.
Probably the best car journalists/Madlads in the game. I just binged almost 20 videos and I’m still not tired of the energy and chemistry you guys have.
Awesome review as usual guys! Keep it up. 2 remarks since I've owned multiple MBs: 1)the engine start button can be popped out and then the key could go in and turn like any other Mercedes. 2) I agree with Jakub regarding the buttons. On most AMGs, they are located around the shifter.
2 things. 1) You guys are awesome. 2) The reason that the key looks like one you can turn is because you can remove the push to start to do just that. It's in-case your key runs out of battery.
Great review guys! I used to own an STI, and a JCW. Now I have one of these GLA45 and they are a cannon on wheels! So much fun to drive, especially when merging into the 400..! Love the GLA45! I think it is far superior in all aspect than any of the other hatches out there - although it is not a real hatch (it's supposed to be a SAV or SUV, but that's silly). I would put this one on the realm of the RS3 or M2 - however the other German competitors are better looking I think. Cheers boys!!!!
Yup! Just bought the 2019 model today. Very happy. Thanks for a very awesome review! My 2019 version has all the bells and whistles. Hopefully none of the the speeding tickets!
You guys deserve way more subscribers than 193k! I think I’d pick a RS3 over this at this price point. If only they have the hatch version of RS3 here in Canada. 👍 for representing us Canadians as well!
Great video guys! The key fob is actually a key, you simply pull out the engine start stop button then put the key like a traditional key. Foot on the brake pedal, rotate the key to start engine with position 1 / position 2.
This is kind of an odd vehicle to me. Is it a car, is it a CUV, is it a hot hatch? It doesn't seem to clearly fit in any of those categories. But I really like the exhaust pops and the dashboard. I'm glad MB did something different on the interior, I would not have expected that from them.
So Mercedes takes an A-Class hatch, jacks it up a bit and calls it a GLA. Then they take the GLA, shoehorn a 375hp motor in it, lower it back down and it becomes a GLA45! So it's a jacked up, lowered hatch. Or was that a jacked up, lowered CUV? I don't know any more!
@@InteriorDesignAnderson I actually have the wing and diffuser but no carnard. Lol do t know how that happened. The dealer just gave it to me like that.
Love you guys! You’re some of my favorite reviewers. Just a few notes. You can pull of the push-to-start buttons in Mercedes and there’s a slot underneath to insert the standard key. It’s like a backup if there’s some sort of malfunction. Also, Alcantara is cheaper than leather because it’s synthetic. It’s actually cheaper for manufacturers to use it than leather.
Great review! Quick point: The push button is removable so that the key can be inserted and used. Sometimes the keyless-go system has to be re-calibrated; and removal of button and insert key is how you do it. Right on point, other than that. Love the Focus RS and this vehicle. I've been on track with the GLA45 so its hard to pick against it, but I don't doubt the GLA45 is more refined.
Concerning the starter key: there is a small easteregg: The start/stop engine button can simply be pulled off and beneath it you will find the normal ignition keyhole where you can put your key in (as a backup). I recognized it in your vid: it exactly looks like in my CLS 63 S so it should work here too. Thank you for your extremely entertaining review! Regards from Europe, Hans :) PS: I had a Focus RS 2017 and sold it. Cyl head gasket problem. But aside that you simply can' compare it to a GLA 45. The RS was built on a front drive Focus platform. They had to squeeze in a tiny transmission shaft into the tunnel together with the exhaust. The dampers are ridiculously hard, the trunk volume is pathetic due to the fourwheel drive. For all this and its size it is too expensive. Nah, Ford has gone in a wrong direction with this. The best hothatches are Audi RS3 and this GLA 45.... :)
Not sure if it was mentioned by others but the push to start button pops out and the key is fully functional. AMG apparently wanted you to have options lol! The recaros do offer you more head room fyi! Also, if you can option it without the moonroof (not sure if you can) it will save a few inches for your helmet. I have a 2016 and LOVE IT.
This was my "attainable" dream car for a while too, about a year ago. At some point I fell in love with the M2 and coughed up a bit more $$$ and bought that instead though. No regrets.
I agree with Jacob on the button placement. Why is your suspension button next to your heated seats button :/ seems like an easy mistake to make if you're just trying to warm up your butt and you end up changing your suspension settings. Otherwise badass car nothing really to complain about. If people really want a luxury hot hatch then Mercedes has them covered...but then there's the Golf R 😂 maybe not as luxurious, but still pretty cool.
Shame you guys do not have access to the BMW 1 series in North America.. Because the BMW M140i for me is the ultimate hot hatch right now.. It's also the last of the Mohicans with it's oldskool (3.0L turbo) inline 6-cylinder and RWD.. Sure there is the M240i and M2, but those are a bit more expensive and coupes, not hatches..
inflatable2 I drive a 120i 2017. There is a lot of traffic in my country so auto its better than manual. Its not on the level of the m140i but its an incredible car. Best decision I ever made!!
M140i and M240i cost almost exactly the same here in Poland. They have the exact same option list. You can choose AWD vs RWD and double-clutch vs manual in both. They have the same performance, but the 2-series body is longer so it is slightly more stable. Some people however like twitchy and snappy so they can have a 1-series.
Unfortunately that will be the new gen that switches from RWD to FWD.. So it will lose much of it's charm.. If it loses the 6-cylinders as well then it's nothing special anymore, just another 4-cylinder FWD hatchback like all the rest..
He probably means aspirational car. A nice car you can get if you just save up or get that promotion at work. Dream cars are more like 6 figure cars that 99.9% of people won't even get to drive much less own.
Guys , you are really the best! Finally a review that is really pleasant to follow and make clear the good and bad points about the car keeping high the enthusiasm and excitement! Great Job!
I have the old (2016) GLA45 . My major criticism is that of its almost unforgivably stiff suspension. In comfort mode you feel every change in road surface whether you want to or not. In sport mode it transmits every bump straight to your spine without any silly suspension getting in the way. The road noise is also characteristically un-Mercedes. Oh and the parking sensors and collision detection system sense phantom objects every so often. Oh and the chrome lettering "AMG GLA45 4MATIC" takes up the length of the boot. And the exhaust pipes are fakes. And there are not A/C vents in the back. And the interior has fake leather which gets very hot in the sunlight... ...but then you grip that perfect steering wheel, put your foot down and all is forgiven. The grip is unimaginable. The brakes are a treat. The engine growls on start-up and wants you to drive it. There's an ethos running through AMG cars that separates them from Mercedes. Basically, you're sad when you get out. You're happy when you get back. - Perfect car 10/10.
What I like most is the small things you guys point out. I can't really go really fast with my car anywhere these days ,so what matters the most is how comfy it is ,how good the interior is qualitywise and the small stuff here and there . So you guys cover that perfectly for me. In reality I'm a poor mofo ,I won't buy any of these .
manual shift is a requirement for a real hot hatch- the GLA here is a luxury hot hatch for the owner who's significant other can't and won't learn to drive 3 pedals. I really want to like this car, but after sitting in one, it just seemed a little too tight for me. And when I'm spending my dollars, the TypeR would be my first choice. Great review again crew!
I’m with you. This whole pop and crackle shit is corny and it’s just to much. Once in a while is cool like maybe when I’m at wide open throttle. Neighbor of mine has a bmw 340i that popped and crackled stock but he put a down pipe and catback exhaust and did a tune so now it does it so loud every time he lets off the gas,it does such loud pops in traffic. It’s embarrassing and people think it’s a gun firing
Golf R. Moderately priced and does not look like a hot wheels car. I can have fun and not attract a lot of attention. For long trips I got her down to 7L/100km. Profit.
Another super video. As always, the best all-rounder is the Golf. Think snow-hooning but then also think a ten hour road night trip in winter weather, and then think ferrying your mom and kid duty. The Focus RS is truly great for one of those jobs and it’s as expensive as the Mercedes. I’m curious to test drive this Mercedes but for the price difference it’s going to have to be about $20k better than the R, which...wait, $70,000, is this a base Lotus or Alfa Quadrifoglio? Nope. Oh, and please yes guys give prices with taxes in, I hate that we never include tax in our prices.
I'm sure someone else has already commented this, but the key is built that way because there is actually a key hole underneath the push to start button, and the button can be removed. Not sure why anyone would want to do that though, other than maybe if the key fob battery dies.
Can't help but agree that the GLA45 is just about the perfect hot-hatch. We don't get many options out here in Southeast Asia, and this is the one I'd pick. Every. Single. Time.
At 12:25; they cheaped-out on the use of alcantara? Gentlemen; alcantara is a vinyl garbage substitute for suede. The less we see of alcantara, the better
The dash design is actually the logo of AMG with the 5 stripes. That stripe design is also on the Edition 1's on the bottom of the doors. Hidden feature on the key pad, while in a the radio functions (sat/fm/am) push the * button and you can direct dial the station or you can push the number to the preset stations.
The Golf R is like a student who does everything right in school, top grades, never gets into trouble and is even nice to his classmates, but he's not much fun at a party.
“Definitely more fun than the JCW” Surprised to hear Yuri say that since the jcw is essentially a powerful go-kart and incredibly sendable, plus the gla is much heavier. I guess the ballsier engine is making the difference?
Torrey B I absolutely agree with you. It used to mean that your fuel mixture was way off if you had snap, crackles and pops. Or it meant you were eating Rice Crispies.
When the battery in the key dies or in some malfunction, you can pop off the push to start cap, and push that key in and turn it. So technically it is a key that you can put it in and turn.
Was actually on a waiting list for the RS years ago but when it came time for purchase they padded the final price. Very upsetting. Great car to drive - difficult to own. Ended up with a used RS5. You guys should test one - fun car!
Well after 3 years of waiting, i finally owned the late 2016 version of this car with the same interior spec and mine comes with the wings, mountain grey color, AMG driver package and a 20” wheels . It’s an amazing car with a lot of grip and confidence on the road + it sounds way louder in real life than in the video. I drove it from Zurich to Frankfurt and back and it was just smoking the other cars on the road. The only drawback from owning this car is how fast the fuel disappears 🤣🤣
Yep totally agree
How has the maintenance been owning one?
@@SuperSmoovy I DIY most of the things which makes it cheaper ( Just regular Service ) I never had any mechanical issues so far but the service of the Gearbox will be due soon and that I need to bring it to the dealership which will be a long had deep into my pocket 😩😩
Considering no one was actually racing you and most cars having 200hp
Just got mine 3 months ago and that gas consumption does not play LOL
Still worth every penny though!
I bought a 2017 GLA45 AMG in Jupiter Red with all the fixings (LSD, Aero Package , Recaro Seats, blah blah) 2.5 years ago. Ended up selling it and trying various Porsche products. The amg made such an impact that when my exact vehicle came out for sale again (magically) I scooped it up within 2 hours of it being listed.
I won't make that mistake again!
If I may, looking at a 2018 Macan GTS v a 2018 GLA AMG both with 85,000km but $23,000 less for Merc, your thoughts? Test drive both, both were rockets! 🚀, the AMG is fully loaded with wing etc
@@spittinvenom9843 Funny enough, I traded in my 2017 Macan GTS for the AMG. I also had a 2016 Macan Turbo. Both were great vehicles BUT not as special as the GLA45 AMG.
Not to mention both Macans had various issues over my ownership. I bought CPO (certified pre owned) or I would have been out a good chunk of money.
Get the AMG and save yourself the $$$. You are not getting more car for that much extra $.
The only thing Porsche did better was the interior. Although, mine has the Recaros and they are a must!
I have had ZERO issues with the GLA over 25,000km. Regular maintenance and go. I also drive the snot out of mine and it has seen several 100 miles on the track.
Great choice! Porsche ! There is no substitute!
You guys have me interested in cars I wouldn’t even think about.
Mehdi Mohamed So true
This is a car more people should be interested in.. When you are too old or want something nicer than a Ford or Subaru or Honda.. But not so boring.. Also v60 polestar
Jacob and Yuri = Top Gear Canada
FozWasHere Well They Are way better than top gear tbh
@@randomkdm excuse me. Nothing beats Top Gear
WolfProGamer Whatever, Top gear is shit
RandomKDMfanboi old top gear is the best!!!
Without the experience.
Have owned one for two years now, I am the only one in the car 90% of the time and I have been loving it, you can cruise in comfort mode or when you feel like it in the sports + mode.
I really love just cruising in it as the stereo is just amazing with the right tunes.
This review changed my life! I bought this car a few weeks ago, a 2018, white, with similar options. No aero kit either but night package is just right on the white. Have been shopping for two years and this review pointed me...I liked a focus RS, but too expensive, and plastic/cheap feeling. Type R was nice, but too racy looking (for the wife at least). Very happy with my purchase. Apple car play helps the tech work just good enough. I use it for a daily driver. Have child seats in the back. Hoping to take it to the track in future, and get winter wheels and tires for snow sports. Very versatile. Apple CarPlay helps the tech work just good enough, despite not being a touch screen.
Jeff Worthington I’m thinking about buying this car, a 2018, but I’ve heard the ride is super rough and the transmission is weird at slow speeds/starting from stop. I have a 2015 golf r right now but thinking about upgrading. Any advice?
Christopher Palmer haven’t got it yet. Buying online, should be here next week.
Jeff does it have enough power for max fun or it lacks? can it drift a bit?
@@russellp2825 how is it?
Just wanna say. Straight pipes content is awesome!
I bought one after watching your video. Engine is hand-built by Phillip Salfau....the car is a HOOT !!!
You guys know how to review a car. I think it's because of your enthusiasm. Great job on all your videos. You guys have fun with the cars , clearly. The conversations make your videos unique !
Actually with the push start, you can take it off and put the key in just in a case of emergency!
My wife took the push to start button off and only uses the key because she would park and the auto start/stop would turn the car off. She would forget to actually turn the car off with the button so the car would turn itself back on and off the whole time she parked.
Where would you rank the GLA45 AMG?
Also thanks to our early video access Patreon supporters Michael H, Sean R, Amin F, Oliver U, Arthur E, David C, Israel C, Madison K, Vinay B, Luke M, De Kun L, James M, Paul B, Julian M, Graeme P, Ethan L, Charles E, Pavo B, LeaseCosts Canada, Stephen Y, Edgarson R, Ryan J, Curtis K, Kevin D, Robert P, Tony B, Ben M, Allen G, Andrew R, Nick L, Joe, Waleed M, Hyogo M, Omar, J, Paul B, Matt W, Bill B, Kelvin K, Carlos L, James C, Josiah R, Forrest W, Carlos S, Kevin S, Jeremy S, Bill C, Brad M, Eli G, Jayanth N, Christopher B, Christopher H, 10ShapedFist, Phuong N, Santhosh B, Peter S, MK, Andy B, Casey A, Rob J, Kevin D, Romain B, Andrew L, Jayjay S, Emil, Christopher K, Alex S, Colton H, Artur N, Alexander M, Edward A! Check out the cool rewards at www.patreon.com/thestraightpipes
TheStraightPipes I would wait for the next generation GLA with the new interior.
This is number one for sure
TheStraightPipes I would rank it just under a Ford focus rs but above a type r
Type R, GLA, RS. Reliability and Practicality important.
Probably lower than every other AMG and every other hot hatch, other than the CLA 45.
For the pop per se it's worthy. I can pop 50 times per day. Assuming I drive 300 days per year and I drive that for 4 years, each pop is less than 1 US dollar.
Have had one as my daily driver for 3 years now, loving it and finding it still as enjoyable as day one.
Reliable?
@@farmer-fades9216Yes. I daily drive a 2015 GLA45 and only had one hiccup so far. Had to replace thermostat housing, which was covered under warranty. Best daily I’ve ever owned, and this is my 3rd AMG
You guys hit the nail on the head. When it came time to replace my 10 year old, 175k mile, Stage 2 WRX, I thought I'd get a more age appropriate sedan, and looked at the Alfa Giulia. Great car. Only problem, couldn't hear it. Decided that I really liked hot hatches and was on my way to test drive a Focus RS, when I stopped in at the MB dealer. It was love at first sight, or, rather, love at first sound. I've since put 25k miles on it and still get a kick every time. Got mine with the wing, 20 inch wheels and the sport suspension option. For me, it's a near perfect car.
I’d take the GLA45 over the Focus RS or any others on your list too! You said it right that it’s much more refined than all the other hot hatches! Great review guys thanks! 👍🏻
Just realized that this is the only channel I hit the Like button on all of the videos in it.
I got a 2016 version of this that's all blacked out, aero kit, 20 inch wheels, Recaro seats. Here are my thoughts:
Pros:
- Absolute BLAST to drive! It sounds, moves, and looks fast and cool and I catch myself looking back at it often.
- Fastest stock hot hatch in North America!
- Decently practical, certainly better than the hot compact sedans with similar power.
- Good Harmon Kardon sound system.
- Sticks to the road like some serious performance vehicles, gives excellent feedback through the wheel
- The turbo lag is there but the wait is very worth it, you get whacked over the head with boost and it's so childishly entertaining.
- Performance exhaust is a must have, it echoes nicely in the interior.
- Recaro seats are fantastic sport seats, and the bolstering is the best among hot hatches.
- DCT shifts like a monster
Cons:
- Interior is cool...but Mercedes makes more luxurious interiors at this price point, there are a lot of cheap plastics and they're sadly in places you touch and notice. Essentially you're paying for the powertrain, not a particularly luxurious interior. It's on par with a Golf R in fit and finish and leagues beyond the cheap Focus RS.
- 20 inch wheels are pretty rough if you don't have pristine roads everywhere, I would personally go with the 19 inch wheels.
- The Recaro seats may be cool, but don't make it the best road trip car, especially paired with 20 inch wheels. Wind noise and NVH is in line with Golf Rs, Civic Type Rs, and such.
- DCT is in its element at speed, not at slow speeds; it's jerky around the parking lot and it is really this transmission, other dual clutches are smoother where this one is jerky.
- This may be a 2.0L 4 cylinder, but it honestly drinks like a powerful V6. If you really thrash it can get mid teens in MPG, and sadly it's not super efficient on the highway either, cruising at 80 mph only returns 26 MPG for me on average. Don't expect it to have any efficiency increases due to only having 4 cylinders.
- It's a real AMG and thus servicing costs more than a typical Mercedes, be sure to keep it maintained/serviced regularly with proper fluids and parts.
Verdict: It's the best hot hatch you can buy west of the Atlantic, plain and simple. It isn't a road trip car, but can haul you and the family and your things around town and be a blast while doing it. It adds a lot of spice and joy to a commute, but it won't relax you after a long day and is a bit hardcore even in its softest settings. This is a more luxurious hot hatch for younger drivers and if you want one car that can do a lot, this is a solid option. But for the same money you could get a comfy used SUV or wagon and spend the rest on a two-seater sports car that will do what this does just as well.
this is a really strange car, but I kinda want it.
I see these everywhere on the road lately and am so disappointed on how quiet and slow people drive them. I just want to hear the pops and stuff. The car looks amazing in person. Great review.
WhiteRhino F30 I have one and legit do pulls every possible chance. So addicting
Probably the best car journalists/Madlads in the game. I just binged almost 20 videos and I’m still not tired of the energy and chemistry you guys have.
Right on
Awesome review as usual guys! Keep it up.
2 remarks since I've owned multiple MBs: 1)the engine start button can be popped out and then the key could go in and turn like any other Mercedes. 2) I agree with Jakub regarding the buttons. On most AMGs, they are located around the shifter.
Yes!
FINALLY! a review on another Mercedes car.
P.S.
I love you guys, no complicated review, just plain two guys talking about what is relevant.
Best car reviewers on TH-cam. Hands down. You make Doug demuro look like Martha stewart.
2 things. 1) You guys are awesome. 2) The reason that the key looks like one you can turn is because you can remove the push to start to do just that. It's in-case your key runs out of battery.
subscribed immediately. the energy is authentic. they're fun to watch
Thx guys. Cuzco of this review. I bought this 2018 at 2023. Thx guys
Great job on the reviews guys, y’all are gonna be huge one day
Patrick Wisz
Already are in my books bro!
they already are based on last nights meet!
They’re already well known mate.
301K subs, and still 2 months to go!
They are over 1 million ! Nov 2020
My family has the 2014 GLA 45 AMG and I love it. It's quick,comfy has everything I'd want.
Great review guys!
I used to own an STI, and a JCW. Now I have one of these GLA45 and they are a cannon on wheels! So much fun to drive, especially when merging into the 400..!
Love the GLA45! I think it is far superior in all aspect than any of the other hatches out there - although it is not a real hatch (it's supposed to be a SAV or SUV, but that's silly).
I would put this one on the realm of the RS3 or M2 - however the other German competitors are better looking I think.
Cheers boys!!!!
Yup! Just bought the 2019 model today. Very happy. Thanks for a very awesome review! My 2019 version has all the bells and whistles. Hopefully none of the the speeding tickets!
A great one ☝🏻 you got
@@westasuwaf2455 Haha! Thanks for the comment. Still loving it over a year later! So much fun. (and no speeding tickets yet!)
You guys deserve way more subscribers than 193k!
I think I’d pick a RS3 over this at this price point. If only they have the hatch version of RS3 here in Canada.
👍 for representing us Canadians as well!
5 years later they have 1.62m subscribers. Man, they did good.
Was just watching the BMW M5 review from doug demuro and saw the thumbnail of this!! fastest mouse click I ever did .
dougs annoying haha
Same
LOL. I was watching the E63 AMG.....AGAIN....😏😏🔥👀
I watched the wagon review so many times , it's such a good video
Straight Pipes testing the M5 is a no-brainer.
Was just looking at these cars on mercedes site yesterday, as a big hatch fan its fair to say this vid made me want one even more now
Great video guys! The key fob is actually a key, you simply pull out the engine start stop button then put the key like a traditional key. Foot on the brake pedal, rotate the key to start engine with position 1 / position 2.
This is kind of an odd vehicle to me. Is it a car, is it a CUV, is it a hot hatch? It doesn't seem to clearly fit in any of those categories. But I really like the exhaust pops and the dashboard. I'm glad MB did something different on the interior, I would not have expected that from them.
So Mercedes takes an A-Class hatch, jacks it up a bit and calls it a GLA. Then they take the GLA, shoehorn a 375hp motor in it, lower it back down and it becomes a GLA45! So it's a jacked up, lowered hatch. Or was that a jacked up, lowered CUV? I don't know any more!
Crossover
It's a crossover
John Yeats Nah you twisted your mind, it's just a *jacked up lowered down big hot hatchback small sports crossover utility vehicle*
It's a more practical a class so its a hot hatch imo
I been driving a fully spec'd one since 2015 before the facelift, LOVE IT
You guys are my favourite car channel to watch! You have so much chemistry together and its really enjoyable!
Also Toronto representttttttttttt! 😂😊
🙌
I'd get the civic type r over the focus but the AMG over all of them
We got a CLA 45 and I cannot stop downshifting, it NEVER gets old. The crackles and pops are amazing
Always downshift
I actually prefer the A45 CLA45 and GLA45 without the body kit. Looks sleeker.
BMW ///M you kinda make apoint, but tbh the a45 with aero kit looks sick and also this
S it’s the canards at the front that kill it for me
@@InteriorDesignAnderson I actually have the wing and diffuser but no carnard. Lol do t know how that happened. The dealer just gave it to me like that.
true
Saw you at the car meet yesterday! Keep up the great work guys we love you!
It's because there is a service mood were you can pop out the push start button and you can use the key like a regular key and turn it
As a owner of this little baby...one think i love so much is thats you dont have to be in manual mode to use the padles, they are alway activate. :P
Love you guys! You’re some of my favorite reviewers. Just a few notes. You can pull of the push-to-start buttons in Mercedes and there’s a slot underneath to insert the standard key. It’s like a backup if there’s some sort of malfunction. Also, Alcantara is cheaper than leather because it’s synthetic. It’s actually cheaper for manufacturers to use it than leather.
Great review! Quick point: The push button is removable so that the key can be inserted and used. Sometimes the keyless-go system has to be re-calibrated; and removal of button and insert key is how you do it. Right on point, other than that. Love the Focus RS and this vehicle. I've been on track with the GLA45 so its hard to pick against it, but I don't doubt the GLA45 is more refined.
Once you POP POP!!! you can't stop!!
2 guys really really enjoying cars, you can’t fake enthusiasm. Great reviews! 👍🏼
Concerning the starter key: there is a small easteregg:
The start/stop engine button can simply be pulled off and beneath it you will find the normal ignition keyhole where you can put your key in (as a backup). I recognized it in your vid: it exactly looks like in my CLS 63 S so it should work here too. Thank you for your extremely entertaining review! Regards from Europe, Hans :)
PS: I had a Focus RS 2017 and sold it. Cyl head gasket problem. But aside that you simply can' compare it to a GLA 45. The RS was built on a front drive Focus platform. They had to squeeze in a tiny transmission shaft into the tunnel together with the exhaust. The dampers are ridiculously hard, the trunk volume is pathetic due to the fourwheel drive. For all this and its size it is too expensive. Nah, Ford has gone in a wrong direction with this. The best hothatches are Audi RS3 and this GLA 45.... :)
Can i just say, i love how you guys dont have to agree, makes your reviews so much better!
Enjoyable review , guys! I like this car, but I love the Golf R.
Not sure if it was mentioned by others but the push to start button pops out and the key is fully functional. AMG apparently wanted you to have options lol! The recaros do offer you more head room fyi! Also, if you can option it without the moonroof (not sure if you can) it will save a few inches for your helmet. I have a 2016 and LOVE IT.
This was my dream car a year ago. Ended up saving some money and getting a golf r. Def the right decision. *2-3 years ago wtf time you flyin
Ersan Seer how much did you spend? I got a mazda 3
How come you went golf r?
This was my "attainable" dream car for a while too, about a year ago. At some point I fell in love with the M2 and coughed up a bit more $$$ and bought that instead though. No regrets.
Ersan Seer My dream car was a 918 spyder but had to settle for something cheaper rn :(
Wow, so many pops! Gotta love it. You guys are enjoying some of the most amazing cars in Toronto. Hands down my favorite Canadian car reviewers!
I agree with Jacob on the button placement. Why is your suspension button next to your heated seats button :/ seems like an easy mistake to make if you're just trying to warm up your butt and you end up changing your suspension settings. Otherwise badass car nothing really to complain about. If people really want a luxury hot hatch then Mercedes has them covered...but then there's the Golf R 😂 maybe not as luxurious, but still pretty cool.
Yes!!!
TheStraightPipes :p
I don't think I would think too much about button placement on a performance car.
Yep, I love the metal paddles in Mercedes the most, but I love it in any car.
Shame you guys do not have access to the BMW 1 series in North America.. Because the BMW M140i for me is the ultimate hot hatch right now.. It's also the last of the Mohicans with it's oldskool (3.0L turbo) inline 6-cylinder and RWD.. Sure there is the M240i and M2, but those are a bit more expensive and coupes, not hatches..
inflatable2 I drive a 120i 2017. There is a lot of traffic in my country so auto its better than manual. Its not on the level of the m140i but its an incredible car. Best decision I ever made!!
It doesn’t count because it’s not a 4 cylinder so bmw needs to go 😂
M140i and M240i cost almost exactly the same here in Poland. They have the exact same option list. You can choose AWD vs RWD and double-clutch vs manual in both. They have the same performance, but the 2-series body is longer so it is slightly more stable. Some people however like twitchy and snappy so they can have a 1-series.
coming to U.S. 2019
www.topspeed.com/cars/bmw/2019-bmw-1-series-ar163870.html
Unfortunately that will be the new gen that switches from RWD to FWD.. So it will lose much of it's charm.. If it loses the 6-cylinders as well then it's nothing special anymore, just another 4-cylinder FWD hatchback like all the rest..
So glad you guys did this video! I have the CLA 45 AMG. And I love it!! Great job as always!
When your fave car youtubers make a video of your dream car! Ahhhh!!!
Jayson Javier we just bought one
if thats your dream car, you have problems with your dreams
He probably means aspirational car. A nice car you can get if you just save up or get that promotion at work. Dream cars are more like 6 figure cars that 99.9% of people won't even get to drive much less own.
Aim higher lol
Dream bigger bro.
Guys , you are really the best! Finally a review that is really pleasant to follow and make clear the good and bad points about the car keeping high the enthusiasm and excitement! Great Job!
I have the old (2016) GLA45 . My major criticism is that of its almost unforgivably stiff suspension. In comfort mode you feel every change in road surface whether you want to or not. In sport mode it transmits every bump straight to your spine without any silly suspension getting in the way. The road noise is also characteristically un-Mercedes. Oh and the parking sensors and collision detection system sense phantom objects every so often. Oh and the chrome lettering "AMG GLA45 4MATIC" takes up the length of the boot. And the exhaust pipes are fakes. And there are not A/C vents in the back. And the interior has fake leather which gets very hot in the sunlight...
...but then you grip that perfect steering wheel, put your foot down and all is forgiven. The grip is unimaginable. The brakes are a treat. The engine growls on start-up and wants you to drive it. There's an ethos running through AMG cars that separates them from Mercedes. Basically, you're sad when you get out. You're happy when you get back.
- Perfect car 10/10.
My current favorite car channels the straight pipes and car wow
Notification squad where u at 👊🏻
That machine gun launch sounds sooooo gooooddd! Btw great video. As always...
this is the most beautiful car. Change my mind
I enjoy watching these guys review of cars ...they don't mind hating or loving any and everything that the average buyer would also
$70K for a hatch? no Fing way.
imagine in the future when everyone's car crackles. it must be so damn noisy and annoying in the city.
Probably a old fuck who only like American cars
I feel like a city is already super noisy, so...
Keep in mind that's CAD, not USD. It's around $50k USD.
I highly doubt "everyone's" cars will crackle in the future...cars are only getting more boring and ...electric...
RGhonda yes thats the boring future
Regarding the Key… The Push to Start button can actually be removed revealing the ignition insertion for the key.
They desperately need to redesign the interior
What I like most is the small things you guys point out.
I can't really go really fast with my car anywhere these days ,so what matters the most is how comfy it is ,how good the interior is qualitywise and the small stuff here and there .
So you guys cover that perfectly for me.
In reality I'm a poor mofo ,I won't buy any of these .
Miata ;-)
Best car ever invented ever.
I have the GLA250 and got three speeding tickets in the first 9 months.
Love this car!!🔥🔥🔥👊
I have a GLA45 and it is a TON of fun.. Nice review guys!
Its not older key you can remove the button and start your car with that key if start stop stops working
Oh wild!
manual shift is a requirement for a real hot hatch- the GLA here is a luxury hot hatch for the owner who's significant other can't and won't learn to drive 3 pedals. I really want to like this car, but after sitting in one, it just seemed a little too tight for me. And when I'm spending my dollars, the TypeR would be my first choice. Great review again crew!
I understand for the purist, but alot of us who sit in traffic don't want a manual on the daily
Almost 200k subs!
I like the way you guys agree to disagree, refreshing to not just hear people say yeah yeah yeah.
I know pops and crackles are super popular right now but is anyone else besides me kinda.. over it? (No need to say no)
Leuff I prefer engine/turbo/supercharger sound
Its not even a great pop n crackle. You want exhaust sound? Maserati.
vashsant maseratis are slow as balls though, can get gapped by a 30,000$ Dodge Charger
Brendan Obrien or a 60,000 dollar charger hellcat ;)
I’m with you. This whole pop and crackle shit is corny and it’s just to much. Once in a while is cool like maybe when I’m at wide open throttle.
Neighbor of mine has a bmw 340i that popped and crackled stock but he put a down pipe and catback exhaust and did a tune so now it does it so loud every time he lets off the gas,it does such loud pops in traffic. It’s embarrassing and people think it’s a gun firing
Another most engaging instalment.
Golf R.
Moderately priced and does not look like a hot wheels car.
I can have fun and not attract a lot of attention.
For long trips I got her down to 7L/100km.
Profit.
Another super video. As always, the best all-rounder is the Golf. Think snow-hooning but then also think a ten hour road night trip in winter weather, and then think ferrying your mom and kid duty. The Focus RS is truly great for one of those jobs and it’s as expensive as the Mercedes. I’m curious to test drive this Mercedes but for the price difference it’s going to have to be about $20k better than the R, which...wait, $70,000, is this a base Lotus or Alfa Quadrifoglio? Nope. Oh, and please yes guys give prices with taxes in, I hate that we never include tax in our prices.
For the price. I'd rather get RS3
I'm sure someone else has already commented this, but the key is built that way because there is actually a key hole underneath the push to start button, and the button can be removed. Not sure why anyone would want to do that though, other than maybe if the key fob battery dies.
make a 2019 rdx apec videoooooo pleaaasee
Can't help but agree that the GLA45 is just about the perfect hot-hatch. We don't get many options out here in Southeast Asia, and this is the one I'd pick. Every. Single. Time.
Golf R all day every day for 40-42K . The Mercedes is nice, but 20K nicer? No.
Lox Lover MSRP is $50.6k, where'd you get $60k from?
From the video goof. They say the price right at the end of the one they're driving. They're not even driving a fully optioned one still.
Must be Canadian $ and not the base one becaue google says otherwise.
Gla45. I have that same set up but black with the night package. I tear it up at the track against v6 & v8s. I can’t wait to spank an Emira
At 12:25; they cheaped-out on the use of alcantara? Gentlemen; alcantara is a vinyl garbage substitute for suede.
The less we see of alcantara, the better
But the name sounds fancy.
Got a 2015 A45 AMG with loads of popz!! Love it😄🚗💨
Wow
Nice vid
The dash design is actually the logo of AMG with the 5 stripes. That stripe design is also on the Edition 1's on the bottom of the doors. Hidden feature on the key pad, while in a the radio functions (sat/fm/am) push the * button and you can direct dial the station or you can push the number to the preset stations.
A GLA 200 costs double of that here in India lmao
Good to see Mercedes offer the aero kit as an option and not standard. Love the more stealth look.
Give me a golf r
Same Golf R any day
the Golf R makes sure you cannot go crazy. Which is the biggest down side in having fun.
The Golf R is like a student who does everything right in school, top grades, never gets into trouble and is even nice to his classmates, but he's not much fun at a party.
that must be why I like the Golf R so much, fits my personality lol
ymlccc considering the 2019 Golf R is rumored to have 400 hp it might be less tame and more fun.
“Definitely more fun than the JCW” Surprised to hear Yuri say that since the jcw is essentially a powerful go-kart and incredibly sendable, plus the gla is much heavier. I guess the ballsier engine is making the difference?
Pretty much.
I CAN NOT WAIT for this stupid trend of “cracks” and “pops” ends.
Torrey B Sounds good on some cars, doesn't on most
Torrey B Listen to an V12 Ferrari and an V8 AMG shifting - tell me what car sound better.
A symphony vs. farting whale
Räuber Hotzenplotz I've heard many symphonies but I've never heard a farting whale. So I'll go with farting whale.
Räuber Hotzenplotz than take mercedes sl65 or s65 v12, they don't pop.
But take a ferrari 488 v8, it pops like a farting whale too.
Torrey B I absolutely agree with you. It used to mean that your fuel mixture was way off if you had snap, crackles and pops. Or it meant you were eating Rice Crispies.
When the battery in the key dies or in some malfunction, you can pop off the push to start cap, and push that key in and turn it. So technically it is a key that you can put it in and turn.
He chose a focus rs? I’ve lost respect for his vehicle opinions. I’ll still keep watching though lol
I swear, your vids get better and better!
If only Mercedes would make manuals, sigh..
Was actually on a waiting list for the RS years ago but when it came time for purchase they padded the final price. Very upsetting. Great car to drive - difficult to own. Ended up with a used RS5. You guys should test one - fun car!