Mercedes started working on a compact SUV. The German car manufacturer introduced its second compact crossover not so long ago, and now it’s developing the second-generation of its popular GLA. At first glance, the redesigned model will have nothing in common with the boxy-shaped GLB, but that’s not true at all. Instead, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA will share underpinnings with the “baby G-Class”.
Yes, the attractive SUV will ride on the MFA2 (Mercedes Front-drive Architecture). In addition to the GLB, the same platform is the basis for Mercedes’ new CLA and A-Class, so we know pretty much everything about it. Moreover, the next-gen GLA will largely mirror to the A-Class hatch: the crossover will get practically the same wheelbase, as well as an identical width. The new architecture will have a positive impact on the car’s technology too. More precisely, the 2021 GLA will get a new interface in the form of MBUX infotainment. The advanced multimedia brings digital screen for the instrument cluster, while the infotainment relies on a touchscreen and natural speech controls.
Like you see, the testing prototype of the new GLA is camouflaged from the ground up. The crossover still hides its new design, but irrespective of the wrapping, it’s quite evident that the successor features an increased ride height. Bearing in mind that the low stance was the biggest complaint of the current model, the decision to lift it up seems logical, don’t you think? In addition to the extra inches of the ground, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA currently shows chunkier wheel arches, so the new SUV should not worry about rough terrains either. The successor will not only increase its ground clearance though. When compared to the current model, the 2021 GLA will add roughly 2 inches in length. Also, its wheelbase should be increased by 1.1 inches.
Essentially, the next-gen model will undergo an evolutionary redesign. Still, even though it’s going to stay recognizable, the new crossover will add a number of new and interesting styling cues. First of all, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA seems to be getting a tad more aggressive lines, new and angular headlights matched with daytime running lamps, as well as a totally redesigned grille that largely resembles the one on the new CLA.
There will be a few new touches beneath the hood too. As far as we’ve found, the 2021 Mercedes GLA 250 will get a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Our source claims that the option comes coupled with a revised seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and it’s going to have an available 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Mercedes will not skip the opportunity to add a plug-in hybrid variant in the offer, while some reports say that the carmaker started working on an EV variant too. Of course, the company’s AMG department will give some contribution to the new-gen GLA. More precisely, AMG will introduce the new GLA35 with a 302-hp powertrain, as well as the topping GLA45 capable to kick out 416 horsepower.
The completely redesigned Mercedes GLA will be introduced sometime next year. The awesome compact-sized crossover will be available in North America for sure. Unofficially, the entry-point model will start its journey north from $35K.
