Mercedes has pulled the covers off its all-new GLA, which arrives as a full EV for the first time.
The new Mercedes GLA effectively replaces the old EQA as the brand’s entry-level electric SUV and is launching with three EV powertrains. Hybrid variants will follow next year.
Sitting beneath the new GLB and GLC models, the all-new GLA borrows many of its siblings’ design cues and technology, including a massive illuminated grille and dashboard-wide “Superscreen”.
The GLA will be priced from £45,400 and will go head to head with the Volvo EX40, Audi Q4 e-tron and BMW iX1 when orders open later this year.
New Mercedes GLA powertrain
Based on the same 800V MMA architecture as the latest GLB and CLA, the new GLA comes with an 85kWh battery and choice of rear- or all-wheel-drive.
For now, the UK isn’t getting the entry-level GLA 200 with its 221bhp motor and 51kWh battery. Instead the UK range starts with the GLA 250+. In its most efficient guise, this will cover up to 406 miles per charge, while delivering 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds courtesy of a 268bhp motor.
The GLA 350 adds a front motor for 349bhp and a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds. The extra performance and weight cuts its maximum range to 381 miles. Both variants can charge at up to 320kW on an 800V DC charger, allowing a 168-mile top-up in just 10 minutes.
Like the CLA, owners will need an optional £850 DC converter to allow them to use lower-powered 400V public chargers which make up the bulk of the UK network.
New Mercedes GLA design and interior
The new GLA is longer and wider than its predecessor but with a slightly lower roofline. Like its predecessor, it keeps a traditional SUV shape with soft, simple lines, rather than the coupe-style design of some Mercedes models.
While its overall shape is generally quite traditional and unassuming, the GLA follows its larger siblings in adopting a large light-up grille. With a giant glowing three-pointed star at its centre, the gloss-black mesh contains 608 individual light points and 158 micro LEDs that can be animated as an option.
Inside, the extended wheelbase allows for more front and rear passenger space than before, and the boot is 410 litres – a 70-litre increase. The GLA also gets a massive 107-litre frunk beneath the bonnet.
Mercedes says the new GLA adopts a “clean minimalist design” with a few striking high-tech elements. Like other recent Mercedes models, the dashboard is dominated by screens. Drivers get a standard 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a 14-inch central touchscreen. However, the optional “Superscreen” adds another 14-inch screen in front of the passenger for a full dash-wide digital display.
All the screens run on the latest MBUX, which brings a wealth of connected technologies – from TV streaming apps to remote vehicle management – and features Google Maps-based EV route planning.
New Mercedes GLA price
The new GLA will arrive in the UK later this year priced from £45,400.
That gets the entry-level GLA 250+ Sport trim. Above that are Sport Executive, AMG Line Executive, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus trim grades.
The all-wheel-drive GLA 350 is only offered with the three AMG Line grades, with the range topping out at £60,200 for the GLA 350 4MATIC electric AMG Line Premium Plus.
