After much speculation and teasing, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has finally been revealed.
Set to take on the likes of the Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque and BMW X1, the GLA is built on the company’s front/all-wheel drive MFA platform and measures in at 4 417 mm long, 1 805 mm wide and 1494 mm high. These dimensions make it 125 mm longer than the A-Class upon which it is based.
There will be various engines on offer internationally. These include a 115 kW 1,6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the GLA200 and a 100 kW 1,8 turbodiesel in the GLA20 CDI. Both these versions come with in front-wheel-drive configuration. These engines come mated with a six-speed manual transmission. An automatic ‘box is available as an optional.
For those hoping to venture slightly off-road with the GLA, the GLA220 CDI with its 2,1-litre 125 kW turbodiesel and the GLA250 with a 2,0-litre turbocharged petrol unit that produces 155 kW and 350 N.m come with the Mercedes-Benz 4matic all-wheel-drive system. The latter unit is mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that helps the GLA250 achieve a zero-to-100 km/h sprint time of 6,4 seconds.
In terms of design, the Mercedes-Benz GLA looks like a bulked up A-Class and features a prominent grille, swept-back headlamps and a brace of strong character lines running from the bonnet of the vehicle to its tail and A-Class inspired taillights. Filing the wheel arches are 18-inch alloys with 19-inch as an optional extra. Inside, it’s very upmarket and there’s a higher driving position. Other than that, a lot is carried over from the A-Class.
The GLA’s standard specification and safety features list includes the latest Mercedes-Benz multimedia system, attention assist and collision prevention assist.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA will makes its public debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.
