The greatest trick Mercedes ever pulled was convincing Americans that a hatchback was a crossover. Mercedes didn't give us the A-class, but we do get its lifted cousin with "respectable" ground clearance. They will end up selling/leasing a crap-load of them. What would yours look like?

Opinions are mixed on how the GLA fits in. Travis thinks it's "pointless," but he is a Miata man with no need for practicality. Matt, who is attending the launch of the GLA, says, "...in AMG trim it gets 29 mpg highway, can carry my shit, and hit 60 mph in 4.8 seconds...not bad." In fact, the GLA would make for a great city crossover, it is quick enough to zip through traffic and small enough to find easy parking.

Personally I see the GLA45 and think... hatchback, AWD, 355hp turbo-4 = RALLY CAR! I bet this would be a blast flying down some dirt roads. I checked off all the AMG boxes and the matte paint (because why not) and still ended up under $60k.

Head on over to and show us how you would spec out your GLA hot-hatch crossover.

Choose your GLA SUV model, and customize the color, wheels, interior, accessories and more. View…