The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4matic, with its combined fuel economy of 27 MPG, doesn’t lead the subcompact luxury SUV segment in efficiency. However, it strikes a reasonable balance for buyers who prioritize technology, and the Mercedes-Benz brand over saving gas. This isn’t a hybrid. It’s a stylish, comfortable vehicle engineered for urban driving and weekend trips, where fuel consumption might be a secondary consideration for some.

City and highway performance

The GLA250’s EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city reflects the demands of stop-and-go driving. The turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, though small, needs to work to move the GLA’s weight. The figure isn’t alarming, and it’s competitive with other gasoline-powered luxury SUVs in this class. On the open road, the GLA250 4matic performs better, achieving 32 MPG on the highway.

The 8-speed automatic transmission (AM8) helps maintain optimal engine speed for fuel efficiency during steady-state cruising. This spread indicates that the GLA250 is most efficient during longer trips where it can settle into a comfortable cruising rhythm. This characteristic aligns with its intended use as a versatile urban runabout and road trip vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4matic at $2,150. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a proportion of city and highway driving that mirrors national averages, and using the prevailing national average fuel price. This allows prospective owners to quickly grasp the expected cost of fueling the vehicle over a year, providing a benchmark for comparison against other vehicles. While this is a single annual data point, it’s not static, but will vary due to geographic location, driving style and fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are seldom achieved in the real world. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and terrain significantly impact fuel consumption. Expect the 27 MPG combined figure to change.

Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and driving in hilly areas will likely decrease fuel economy. On the other hand, a more relaxed driving style, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you approach or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. The GLA250’s 2.0L turbo engine can be tempting to use on the open road or when quick acceleration is desirable, which will lead to lower overall fuel economy scores.

How it compares

The GLA250 resides in a crowded segment. The BMW X1 xDrive28i, a direct competitor, achieves a combined 28 MPG and offers a slightly more engaging driving experience. The Audi Q3 delivers similar performance with a rating around 25 MPG combined. The Lexus UXh, though smaller and less powerful, boasts a significantly higher combined rating of 42 MPG due to its hybrid drivetrain, appealing to those prioritizing fuel savings. GLA250 buyers often cross-shop these vehicles, weighing factors like brand prestige, features, and driving dynamics against fuel economy. The fact is, the Lexus UX buyers are not buying the GLA250 and vice versa.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to conserving fuel. Avoid aggressively stomping on the accelerator or slamming on the brakes. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, consistent speed to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. The GLA250’s automatic transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy, so let it do its job without excessive manual shifting.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight inside the vehicle. Remove any items you don’t need, as extra weight reduces fuel efficiency. The GLA250 isn’t a large vehicle, so even relatively small amounts of added weight can have some impact.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to start quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially important in urban environments where idling is common.

Consider checking GLA250 MPG across all years to see consistent trends across different model years, or, if you’re trying to get a better sense of the brand as a whole, perhaps check out all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.