Mercedes-Benz removes covers from new-generation GLA

Following the CLA as the first of its latest products to adopt both combustion and electrification under the same nameplate, Mercedes-Benz has applied the same logic to the new third-generation GLA revealed late on Wednesday evening (29 July). Mercedes-Benz’s second SUV after the all-electric GLC to receive the so-called Iconic Grille design, the GLA comes in both EV and mild-hybrid powertrain configurations, with the new MMA or Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) from the CLA forming its base. The basics Replacing the second generation that had been on-sale since 2019, the GLA’s new underpinnings come with gains on nearly every dimensional front.

As such, its fundamentals amount to the following: Length: 4 565mm; Wheelbase: 2 790mm; Height: 1 604mm; Width: 1 873mm. Comparatively, it measures 153mm longer and 39mm wider than its predecessor, with its wheelbase also increasing by 61mm. Surprisingly, overall height has been dropped by 12mm.

The GLA’s dimensional tweaks mean it can accommodate 410 litres of luggage, 70 litres more than before, or up to 1 400 litres with the rear seats folded down. For the EV, which carries the moniker GLA with EQ Technology, an additional 107 litres can be stored underneath its bonnet. Exterior Stylistically inspired by both the GLC and the new all-electric C-Class, the GLA receives the same grille, which on the EV is sealed and available with illumination for the panel as well as the imitation grille slats.

For the combustion GLA, a different design has been applied Rear fascia design is unique to the GLA. Picture: Mercedes-Benz Aside from the standard LED or optional multi-beam LED headlights, the AMG Line and Night Packages can be specified as options, along with alloy wheels up to 20 inches. At the rear, a model specific rear-end fascia has been devised in which the new round-shaped cluster is connected by an illuminated LED light bar running atop the width of the tailgate instead of below.

In addition to the bootlid itself being new, the clusters have star-shaped lights with added dynamic indicators. Interior Inside, the similarities with the CLA continue in that the superscreen display has been carried over. This means the 10.25-inch instrument cluster, the 14-inch MBUX infotainment system and the 14-inch display on the passenger’s side are standard.

GLA’s interior borrows extensively from the CLA.