New Mercedes GLA revealed
REVEALED Crossover looks have been replaced by high-riding SUV style for the second-generation model
● A-Class-based small SUV reveals a chunkier look ● Flagship AMG model manages 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds
MERCEDES’ glut of new models shows no sign of letting up, because the firm has just pulled the wraps off the all-new GLA. When it goes on sale next spring, it’ll take on the likes of the BMW X2 and Audi Q2.
It’s the smallest SUV in Merc’s range, but compared to its predecessor, the new GLA has morphed into a more SUV-appropriate shape. While the old model stood at 1,507mm – barely higher than the A-Class hatchback – the new car is 104mm taller. Combined with an overall length that’s down by 14mm, the final look is chunkier and more upright than before.
While the recently-released GLB has a square, boxy stance, the GLA is a little softer around the edges – something that partly helps it to achieve a low aerodynamic drag figure of 0.28Cd. Many design elements, particularly around the back, are reminiscent of the A-Class, while the headlights get a thicker, rounder look to separate them from the brand’s hatchback.
At launch, the hottest model will be the AMG GLA 35. It’s set apart from the rest of the range courtesy of a more aggressive front and rear bumper design, large twin tailpipes and wheels measuring up to 21 inches in diameter.
Inside though, the dashboard design is lifted virtually wholesale from the A-Class. That means there’s a modern design highlighted by three central air vents sitting below a pair of digital displays. The two screens, measuring 10.25 inches in top-spec models, consist of a fully customisable instrument panel ahead of the driver, which appears to flow seamlessly into a touchscreen infotainment system in the middle of the dash. Lesser models make use of two seven-inch screens instead.
The GLA’s new shape has helped interior accommodation. Rear legroom sees the greatest improvement: with the addition of a sliding rear bench, occupants in the back have an extra 116mm of space when compared to the previous GLA. Rear shoulder room is up 43mm, while the driving position is said to be higher than before, in order to give a more commanding view of the road ahead. Boot space is also up slightly; the 421-litre capacity is a 14-litre improvement.
The GLA’s engine line-up is shared with the A-Class family, and a plug-in hybrid version will join at a later date. From launch, the GLA 200 will be powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol. With 161bhp and
250Nm of torque, it’ll accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds and emits 129g/km of CO2 according to NEDC testing. The AMG-tweaked GLA 35 deploys its 302bhp through all four wheels, firing it towards a 5.1 second 0-62mph time.
Four-wheel drive will be available in the non-AMG range, too, where an optional variable torque distribution should aid on- and off-road driving. The driver can adjust the balance based on the driving mode selected: Eco and Comfort settings offer an 80:20 split front to rear, while Sport alters this to 70:30.
Off-road mode delivers a 50:50 split, while it also tweaks the power delivery and ABS settings to help the GLA in rough terrain. Downhill Speed Regulation maintains a pre-selected speed when rolling down steep inclines, while the LED lights are able to illuminate the terrain directly ahead of the car.