The second generation of the Mercedes GLA should also shape dynamism and design. This time the manufacturer also promises more secondary virtues.
The second generation of the Mercedes GLA remains true to its rather dynamic lifestyle, but now adds more practical features. As of spring, the new edition of the compact SUV will initially be available in two drive variants from European dealers, followed by launches in China and the USA.
The designers stuck to the sweeping overall appearance of the crossover. However, the body is ten centimeters higher and one and a half centimeters shorter - probably also in response to criticism from customers who found the GLA too narrow for a Mercedes. For the new version, the manufacturer now promises more headroom in the front and significantly more leg room in the rear. The trunk is also growing: from 421 to 435 liters. A sliding back seat and a height-adjustable loading floor should ensure variability.
The new MBUX infotainment system known from the other A-Class models is moving into the cockpit, with powerful voice control, a head-up display and a high degree of networking. As usual, the arsenal of assistants presents itself, which includes a traffic jam assistant and an emergency lane assistant. Pedestrian detection also reacts to pedestrians who are still moving on the sidewalk. On motorways, the GLA uses the latter at 60 km / h to orientate itself around surrounding vehicles and recognized lane markings.
Two petrol engines are initially available for the drive. The provisional base engine is an 1,3 liter four-cylinder with 120 kW / 163 PS, coupled to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and front-wheel drive. The GLA 35 AMG with 2,0 liter turbo, 225 kW / 306 PS and all-wheel drive is an alternative and at the same time, apart from another top model. The range will be expanded after the market launch, including several diesel and a smaller gasoline engine. Some engines can be combined with all-wheel drive technology, which, unlike its predecessor, now works electro-mechanically. The new plug-in hybrid in the GLA, which is intended to enable an electrical range of 70 kilometers, is not yet specified. In the course of the new year, an expansion of the purely electric series EQ by an EQA based on the GLA is planned.
Anyone who takes the GLA off-road can use an off-road technology package that includes electronic driving mode control, hill descent help and matrix LED headlights, which should illuminate the surrounding terrain particularly well.
The prices for the new GLA are not yet known. First, they should start at around 33.000 euros for the GLA 200.