All the Best Mercedes-Benz Compact SUVs

Mercedes-Benz currently offers four luxury subcompact and compact SUVs and crossovers: the GLA, the GLB, the GLC, and the all-electric EQB.
Written by Jacqulyn Graber
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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Mercedes-Benz currently offers four luxury subcompact and compact SUVs and crossovers: the GLA, the GLB, the GLC, and the all-electric EQB. 
Crossovers and SUVs are wonderful family-friendly vehicles, and springing for a luxury option like a Mercedes ensures you’ll always ride around in comfort and style. But some families don’t need anything too big—rather, they could use a vehicle that’s utilitarian and roomy while still easy to handle. Cue the compact SUV! 
In this article, the
car insurance
broker app
Jerry
will go through Mercedes-Benz’s current lineup of subcompact and compact SUVs and crossovers, mentioning the pros and cons of each option. We'll then tell you how to cut your
Mercedes-Benz car insurance costs
so you can be certain that the vehicle of your dreams is as affordable as possible.

2022 Mercedes-Benz compact and subcompact SUV models

Mercedes-Benz offers four subcompact and compact SUVs—including one all-electric option! Let’s take a look.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA ($37,450 MSRP)

First up is the
GLA
, a subcompact luxury crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Mercedes-Benz over two generations. This is essentially the SUV equivalent of the A-Class, and it's the smallest SUV marketed by the brand.
But don’t let its small size fool you—the GLA is still mighty! Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering a total of 221 horsepower and zipping the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Choose between front-wheel drive or
4Matic
, Mercedes’ patented all-wheel-drive system.
Highlights of the Mercedes-Benz GLA include: 
  • Peppy performance
  • Impressive suspension, even on rough roads
  • More legroom and shoulder room than previous generations 
  • Upscale and well-equipped interior 
Weaknesses include: 
  • Doesn’t perform very well off road, even when equipped with all-wheel drive and the Off-Road Engineering Package
  • Package upgrades get pricey fast
  • Infotainment system is difficult to use 
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2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB ($39,650 MSRP)

If you need just a little bit more room, check out the
GLB
, a compact luxury crossover SUV that was unveiled in 2019. You’ll enjoy spacious first- and second-row seating, plus the option to add a third row! 
The GLB offers all of the same panache and luxury equipment as Mercedes-Benz’s larger SUVs, but it's considerably more affordable and easy to maneuver around town. Just one trim level is available, but you can upgrade by adding on all-wheel drive or a variety of customized packages. 
Highlights of the Mercedes-Benz GLB include: 
  • Spacious first- and second-row seating
  • Ample cargo space behind the second row—or an optional third row of seats
  • Luxurious yet sporty-looking exterior 
Weaknesses include: 
  • Optional third row is quite cramped
  • Many luxury features cost extra
  • Not as fun to drive as some of its competitors 

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC ($44,900 MSRP)

The
GLC
is Mercedes-Benz’s biggest compact luxury crossover SUV available. In fact, it's considered midsize in some markets. It’s also more powerful than its smaller siblings!
A 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission is the GLC's standard powertrain. Once again,
4Matic
is available as an optional upgrade.
The interior is both attractive and comfortable, decked out with a host of standard luxury equipment like dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heated cushions, and a versatile infotainment system that benefits from a variety of control inputs and contemporary features.
Highlights of the Mercedes-Benz GLC include: 
  • A strong engine that accelerates quickly
  • An incredibly luxurious interior 
  • High-tech infotainment options 
Weaknesses include: 
  • Cargo space and storage throughout the vehicle are limited
  • Most competitors offer better fuel economy 

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB ($55,550 MSRP)

Last but not least is the Mercedes-Benz EQB, a seven-seat battery electric compact luxury crossover SUV that was recently launched in 2021. Based on the gasoline-powered GLB SUV, this boxy SUV is one of the very first all-electric vehicles offered by Mercedes
Similar to the GLB-class SUV, the EQB offers a spacious cabin with upscale materials, and a third row (albeit, a cramped one) is available as an added feature. Two all-electric powertrains are offered, with EQB300 models making a combined 225 horsepower and EQB350 models producing 288 horsepower.
Highlights of the Mercedes-Benz EQB include: 
  • All-wheel drive is standard
  • Impressive acceleration 
  • Spacious and practical interior 
  • More trim options compared to other Mercedes-Benz SUVs 
Weaknesses include: 
  • The infotainment system can be a bit annoying 
  • The most desirable safety features come with an added cost
  • Adults won’t fit into the optional third row of seats 
MORE: Is a Mercedes-Benz Hybrid worth it?
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Other small Mercedes-Benz models

If you need something compact, the four crossover SUVs outlined above are the only options offered by Mercedes. However, it’s worth taking a look at the brand's lineup of small sedans and wagons, too. 
Here’s a standout vehicle we recommend checking out:
  • 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-class All-Terrain wagon ($69,450 MSRP)—while technically not an SUV, this wagon sure looks like one! 
MORE: Are Mercedes-Benz expensive to maintain?

What is Mercedes-Benz’s smallest SUV? 

Currently, the GLA is the smallest Mercedes-Benz SUV on the market. Take a look at the measurements:
  • GLA wheelbase: 107.4″
  • GLA length: 173.6 to 174.6″
  • GLA width: 72.2 to 72.8″
  • GLA ground clearance: 7.2 inches 

What is Mercedes-Benz’s cheapest car?

It’s probably not a surprise that Mercedes’ smallest SUV is also the cheapest! With a starting price of $37,450, the GLA has a much more accessible price tag than much of the manufacturer’s lineup. Just keep in mind that extra packages can get pricey fast.

How to save on Mercedes-Benz insurance

Opting for a compact SUV rather than a full-size one is a great way to save some money on car ownership costs. Another great way? Shop for car insurance using
Jerry
As a
licensed insurance broker
and the App Store’s #1-rated insurance app, Jerry can analyze your profile and compare quotes from 55+ insurance providers in just 45 seconds. On average, Jerry users save over $800 a year on car insurance! 
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