All-new Mercedes-Benz GLA makes global debut

Lower, longer and more expressive

The new GLA adopts a more dynamic stance, sitting 20 mm lower than its predecessor while gaining a 61 mm longer wheelbase. A wider rear track, muscular proportions and flush-mounted 18- to 20-inch wheels enhance its road presence.

Electric variants introduce Mercedes-Benz’s illuminated grille to the compact segment. The panel features 608 illuminated elements and 158 micro-LEDs, paired with star-pattern lighting signatures and connected rear lamps.

Buyers can choose from four trim levels: Style, Progressive, AMG Line and AMG Line Plus. A Night Edition adds Cosmos Black Magno paint, dark exterior accents and 20-inch wheels for a more aggressive appearance.

Three electric powertrains

The all-electric GLA line-up includes three variants. The GLA 200 electric produces 165 kW and uses a 58 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery.

The GLA 250+ and GLA 350 4MATIC deliver 200 kW and 260 kW respectively, powered by an 85 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery. The range-topping 350 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.

A 71 kWh version is scheduled to join the line-up in early 2027.

Maximum WLTP range reaches up to 657 km, while efficiency figures range from 14.8 to 17.6 kWh/100 km depending on the model.

The GLA’s 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging of up to 320 kW, allowing up to 270 km of range to be added in just ten minutes. AC charging supports 11 kW as standard and up to 22 kW optionally.

Electrified petrol models to follow

Mercedes-Benz will introduce electrified petrol variants in early 2027, powered by a newly developed 1.5-litre turbocharged hybrid engine.

The system integrates a 22 kW electric motor within an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, supported by a 1.3 kWh 48-volt battery. This allows short-distance electric driving in urban conditions, coasting above 100 km/h and energy recuperation of up to 25 kW.

GLA 4MATIC versions will also include TERRAIN mode and a transparent-bonnet camera function for improved visibility on off-road surfaces.

More space and practicality

Interior space has been improved across the board. Rear legroom increases by 38 mm, while headroom rises by 23 mm in the front and 24 mm in the rear.

Boot capacity expands to 410 litres, extending to 1,400 litres with the rear seats folded in a 40:20:40 configuration. Electric models also feature a 107-litre front storage compartment.

The electric GLA 4MATIC offers towing capacity of up to two tonnes, while an adjustable load floor enhances practicality.

A panoramic roof is standard, while the optional SKY CONTROL roof can switch between transparent and opaque sections and includes 172 illuminated star elements, to be introduced at a later stage.

AI-powered MBUX technology

The new GLA features the latest MBUX system, with an optional Superscreen combining a 10.25-inch driver display and two 14-inch screens for infotainment and passenger use.

More than 40 apps are supported, including YouTube, Disney+ and RIDEVU.

The MBUX Virtual Assistant integrates technologies such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini, enabling conversational interaction. Navigation is powered by Google Maps with cloud-based AI assistance, allowing natural voice queries for charging stations, parking and destinations.

MBUX Surround Navigation adds real-time 3D visualisation of traffic, routes and nearby vehicles.

Expanded safety and refinement

The GLA uses a combination of eight cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors to support advanced driver-assistance systems. Features include assisted steering, lane changes, adaptive cruise control, automated parking and reversing assistance.

Additional functions include a 3D surround-view camera, rim-protection alerts and automated exit from parking spaces.

Improved insulation, decoupled electric-drive mounting and optional acoustic glass enhance cabin refinement, while the electric GLA achieves a drag coefficient of 0.27.

Mercedes-Benz also claims a lifecycle carbon footprint reduction of around 40 per cent compared with the previous combustion model, supported by lower-emission battery production and increased use of recycled materials.

Pricing and availability

Prices start at €48,599.60 ($56,000/AED 205,700) including VAT for the GLA 200 electric.

The GLA 250+ is priced from €54,978 ($63,400/AED 232,700), while the GLA 350 4MATIC electric starts at €58,107.70 ($67,000/AED 246,000).

Currency conversions are approximate. UAE and GCC launch timing, local pricing and final regional specifications have yet to be announced.