The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA has been revealed ahead of an Australian arrival in the third quarter of 2020.
Dimensionally, the entry-level GLA measures in at 4410mm long, 1611mm high and 1834mm wide with a 2729mm wheelbase. When compared to the outgoing model, the GLA is 14mm shorter, 30mm wider and 104mm taller with a 30mm longer wheelbase.
Externally, the GLA gets the brand’s current SUV design language with a new front grille and fascia, power domes on the bonnet, and slimline LED tail-lights.
AMG versions get the panamericana grille, a front splitter with chrome highlights, a new rear diffuser, a roof spoiler, twin exhaust tips and a range of new alloy wheel designs ranging in size from 19- to 21-inches.
On the inside, the headline act is the new MBUX infotainment system that comprises two digital screens up to 10.25-inches in size and ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control functionality.
There’s also a head-up display and a clever augmented reality satellite navigation system.
Opting for an AMG model brings specific displays and menus, and the latest AMG performance steering wheel.
Clever seating solutions mean the rear seats can be optionally adjusted by 14 centimetres and the rear seat backrest set to a steeper rake. The seats also complement the load floor which can be adjusted to offer a flat loading area with the seat folded down.
Safety-wise, the new GLA gets autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, evasive steering assist, traffic sign recognition, and an exit warning function that alerts the driver to approaching cyclists or vehicles.
The GLA also features a car wash function which sees the exterior mirrors fold in and the side windows and sliding roof close. The information from the rain sensor is also suppressed so that the windscreen wipers remain switched off and the climate control switches to air-recirculation mode. These settings are automatically deactivated when the driver leaves the car wash and accelerates to a speed above 20 km/h.
Depending on the market, at launch, a range of petrol and diesel units will be available. Locally, the GLA will likely launch with the 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will send power to the front wheels.
The AMG GLA35 gets a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine offering 225kW and 400Nm, it’s mated with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Mercedes-AMG claims the GLA35 can sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250km/h.
The AMG-calibrated 4Matic all-wheel drive system adjusts the torque distribution to match the driving mode. The Eco and Comfort models use 80:20 split (front/rear), Sport moves to 70:30, while the off-road mode deploys a 50:50 split.
Performance fans can expect AMG to reveal GLA45 and GLA45 S versions in due course. The range toppers will pack the up to 310kW of power.
Locally, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the new GLA will arrive in the third quarter of 2020. Specs and pricing will be announced closer to the launch date.
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