Mercedes is putting the final touches on the new GLA
compact crossover before the big reveal, which is believed to happen at the
Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The second generation of the GLA
was spotted on public roads – this time with all doors attached to the body and
a thin camouflage wrap trying to cover the new shape of the popular compact
crossover.
Under the skin, the new GLA will ride on the same
MFA architecture Mercedes is using for all of its compact models, including the
A-Class, the CLA, the B-Class and of course the recently unveiled GLB -the
largest model to use the platform.
Mercedes has been on a roll with the interiors of
its compact model lineup lately and the GLA will follow the same recipe,
featuring the familiar dual-display setup that runs the latest MBUX
infotainment system, as well as better-quality materials. Interior room will
also be improved, especially for the rear passengers, which will get more air
for their heads and knees.
The engine range will largely mirror that of the
regular A-Class while customers will be able to spec their new GLA with the
4Matic all-wheel drive system in combination with specific powertrains. Base GLA 200 models will get the
turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder petrol engine offered with up to 160 hp while a more powerful 220 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit will power the
GLA 250. Diesel models will get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with up to 187 hp, as well as a base 1.5-liter unit.
Those wishing for a bit more grunt will have to wait
for the AMG versions, namely the GLA 35 and GLA 45 models. Both will be powered
by turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engines, with the former getting 302 hp and
the latter up to 416 hp. Think about it: a compact crossover
hatchback with over 400 hp; that’s the world we live in.
The new Mercedes GLA will compete with models like
the Audi Q2 and the BMW X2, once it arrives in the market, leaving the boxier
and more practical GLB to deal with the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1.