Mercedes GLA hybrid boot space & seating

The current GLA is a bit taller than the car it replaced, but It's almost exactly the same length, at just under 4.5 metres. However, extra space has been made in the wheelbase, so there's more room inside for passengers – especially those riding in the back. It's not quite as versatile as the boxier Volvo XC40, and the BMW X1 is also a bit more spacious, but the GLA does a much better job of keeping pace in this department than the previous version did.

Mercedes GLA hybrid interior space, storage & comfort

Those up front get plenty of space and a set of very comfortable seats, as is Mercedes tradition. And the rear seats are now much more comfortable for adult occupants than before. The GLA is the smallest SUV Mercedes makes, but it should still be practical enough as small-family transport – just don't expect to regularly carry five people in comfort, as the central rear seat is a bit cramped.

Storage throughout is as you'd hope – a large central cubby under the armrest is joined by two cupholders, good-sized door bins and plenty of space for other items. Mercedes will also sell you some bespoke accessories including all-weather rubber floor mats, liners and storage solutions for the boot (see below), which will help to make the most of the space that's there.

Boot space

The GLA 250 e has a 35-litre fuel tank, which is smaller than the petrol and diesel models' 43 litres. The tank itself has been relocated, which leaves space under the boot floor to accommodate the hybrid system's batteries. The result is that the GLA avoids the awkward box-shaped intrusion into the boot area seen in the larger E-Class hybrids; the boot floor stays flat, including when the rear seats are folded down. There's a total of 385 litres of luggage room with the seats up, so a good chunk less than the 435 litres you get in other front-drive GLAs, and down on the XC40 plug-in's 460 litres and hybrid X1's 450 litres.