Mercedes is more interested in launching the GLB first and that
understandable given that it’s a more capable all-rounder than the GLA.
Speaking of which, the first-generation GLA was more a jacked-up A-Class than a
crossover — it was certainly hard to distinguish from a regular A-Class hatch. The new
Mercedes-Benz GLA certainly looks like a crossover in these shots taken from a
long distance, although one that misses the rear doors for some reason.
It looks sleeker than the GLB but that’s hardly
surprising because the latter model is sought as a rugged SUV influenced by the
boxy G-Class. In contrast, the new GLA adopts a sloping roofline and lower rear
passenger windows. It also looks more compact than the GLB and has rather short
rear doors — at least that’s the impression given by this prototype’s cutouts.
Despite that, the second-generation GLA is expected to offer a roomier interior
than its predecessor.
Not counting the missing rear doors, this prototype
seems quite close to production. There is no shape-disguising padding under the
camouflage (except for the front bumper) and it appears to have the final
production headlights and taillights. Design-wise, it would be appropriate to
characterize it as a mixture of the A-Class, B-Class, and GLB.
As with its platform siblings, the 2020 Mercedes-GLA
will be available with an assortment of turbocharged gasoline and diesel
four-cylinder engines, including a range-topping GLA 35 version with 306 PS. A GLA 45 variant with more than 400 hp is reportedly under
consideration too. The new GLA will also adopt the latest tech featured in
Merc’s latest compacts, including the MBUX infotainment system with two
displays as big as 10.25-inches and over-the-air updates in the top version. The second-generation Mercedes-Benz
GLA is expected to launch next year at one of the major auto shows. A Geneva
debut looks likely given that the GLB will bow in September this year at the
Frankfurt Motor Show.
