The height of the new Mercedes-Benz GLA will increase by about 10 cm, making the model more reminiscent of a crossover rather than the tall hatchback with which the first-generation car is often confused. Nevertheless, the GLA will remain the smallest SUV in the German brand's lineup, and its exterior will be styled in the manner of the "younger" A-Class and B-Class models.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA will be built on the MFA2 modular platform, which underpins the fourth-generation A-Class. The architecture provides for the use of electrified powertrains, but at launch, the crossover will be available only with traditional internal combustion engines.
This includes a new 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 163 hp, as well as a two-liter unit. The diesel lineup will be represented by engines ranging from 116 to 190 horsepower. It is possible that in the future, the crossover will receive "hot" versions from AMG with indices 35 and 45, which will get engines producing 306 and 421 hp, respectively.
The crossover will be available with semi-automatic driving systems based on a suite of cameras and sensors. Additionally, the car will be offered with the new MBUX multimedia system with a digital instrument cluster combined with a touchscreen display.
