The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA250, with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy of 28 MPG. This places it in the competitive set for subcompact luxury crossovers. The GLA250’s fuel economy is simply good enough to not be a dealbreaker for buyers who prioritize style, brand appeal, and a premium feel in a small package, especially if they don’t drive a lot.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLA250 gets 24 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the 2.0L turbo’s responsiveness is appreciated, but its fuel consumption is noticeable. The automatic (AM7) transmission shifts smoothly, but can sometimes feel a bit hesitant from a standstill. This impacts fuel economy in urban environments. The GLA250’s highway MPG is more respectable on the open road, where the engine cruises comfortably. The aerodynamics contribute to a relatively efficient experience at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 will cost approximately $2,050 per year in fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local fuel prices. The $2,050 figure is a useful benchmark for comparing the GLA250’s running costs to those of its competitors and other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a standard, but real-world fuel economy varies. Owners report figures that align with the EPA’s estimates, but factors like aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and using accessories can negatively affect results. With heavy traffic, expect figures closer to the 24 MPG city rating. At consistent speeds on long highway trips, you should get close to the 34 MPG highway rating, or even exceed it. Understanding your driving is important for predicting your fuel costs. See GLA250 MPG across all years for owner-reported data.

How it compares

The GLA250’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The BMW X1 xDrive28i gets a similar 27 MPG combined. The Audi Q3 45 TFSI also gets 28 MPG combined. The Lexus UX 250h, a hybrid, gets 42 MPG combined, but offers a different driving experience. These comparisons are important to GLA250 buyers. They may pay a premium for a luxury brand, but they don’t want to spend too much on gas. The GLA250’s fuel economy generally meets expectations within its class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The GLA250’s turbocharged engine is responsive, but frequent hard acceleration will significantly reduce fuel economy. Smooth, measured acceleration will help keep the turbo from using extra fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, especially in city driving where idling is common.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, and maximizes fuel efficiency. The GLA250’s cruise control system maintains speed well, even on inclines.

Keep your vehicle maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine runs optimally. A well-maintained engine is more efficient. See all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data for information about the brand.