Mercedes GLA The Smallest Mercedes Crossover Is Getting A New Generation

It’s been almost two years since Mercedes teased the all-new GLA, and we just saw it in prototype form, with our vigilant spy photographers immortalizing a pre-production tester that wore a lot of camouflage on its body, doing its thing at an undisclosed location.
 

Set to replace the second generation, which is turning six years old at the end of the year, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA has a similar overall shape with a slightly arched roofline behind the central pillars. The front fascia is different, and we can see what appear to be the production headlights flanking its flat nose, as well as an air intake in the bumper. It has flush-mounted door handles, different taillights, and a rear license plate recess that moved from the tailgate to the new bumper.
 
The cockpit layout should be extremely similar (if not identical) to the latest CLA. And yet, that will include the pillar-to-pillar display setup on higher trim levels, floating-style center console, multi-function steering wheel, ambient lighting, and so on. That is no surprise, given that the premium subcompact crossover, which takes on the likes of the BMW X2 and Audi Q3 Sportback, will be underpinned by the same Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), which is compatible with internal combustion units, hybridized powertrains, and fully-electric assemblies.
 

Word on the street is that the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA will launch with hybrid power, mixing a small electric motor, fed by a tiny battery pack, with a 1.5-liter gasoline burner. At least one plug-in hybrid is expected to join the offering. The family will also comprise at least one EV, with rumor mill stating that the new Mercedes CLA’s dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive, rated at 349 brake horsepower and 380 pound-feet (515 Nm) of torque, could be a great contender. In a perfect automotive world, the Affalterbach brand would still have its way with it. However, we don’t know yet if a new Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4Matic will join the offering. Still, here’s to seeing the hot crossover in its new generation!
 
Speaking of that, when will Mercedes unveil the all-new GLA? Certain outlets and our spy photographers believe that it is due sometime next year. If that is the case, it could launch in our market for the 2027 model year. The current lineup comprises the GLA 250, GLA 250 4Matic, and AMG GLA 35. Pricing for the entry-level is set at $43,000 (MSRP), whereas the all-wheel drive option will set you back an extra $2,000. The sporty derivative, with its 302 horsepower 2.0L four-pot and the ability to reach 60 mph (97 kph) in 5.1 seconds, kicks off at $58,050. Expect the next-generation Mercedes GLA to be a bit more expensive than its predecessor.