Taking the all-new A-Class as a basis is a good
recipe to imagine the upcoming GLA, as the compact SUV will be based on the C-segment hatch.
A jacked up suspension, plastic cladding, tweaked
side steps, modified bumpers and discreet roof rails come with the territory,
but if the current model is any indication, we expect the 2020 Mercedes-Benz
GLA to look a little bit different than this rendering posted by Kleber Silva,
especially at the front where it should feature a more aggressive grille and
slightly different headlights than the hatch.
Poised to take on the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, the 2020
GLA will also get an interior layout that’s practically identical to the new
A-Class. The MBUX infotainment system, with its three different screen sizes,
will dominate the cabin, along with the similar-shaped air vents and metal
accents.
Most of the engine lineup will be carried over from
the hatchback. Thus, expect the usual GLA 180, 200 and 250, which will be
joined later on by other engines, including the 1.3-liter unit co-developed
with Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi. This already powers the Scenic and Grand
Scenic, in three outputs, namely 115 PS, 140 PS and 160 PS.
Mercedes-Benz will probably present the all-new GLA
next year, and it will be one of the seven models in the German automaker’s
compact family, along with the next-gen CLA, B-Class and GLB.
