Due for a Redesign
Among the subcompact Mercedes-Benz models, the GLA is one of the oldest models in that lineup. It made its world premiere in 2019 for the 2020 model year, and this year marks its sixth year in production.
Its stablemates, the CLA and GLB, were given comprehensive full model changes within the last two years. So far, the CLA has been well received, while the GLB has been making a good impression over in Europe. It’s now the turn of the GLA to keep that momentum going. The wait won’t be that long, as the third-generation model will be unveiled this week.
Mercedes-Benz
Evolution of the Theme
All Mercedes is showing is the subcompact crossover with covers draped on it. Still, it’s safe to say that the shape won’t be too different from the soon-to-be outgoing model. The 2027 GLA still appears to have a small footprint, and the roofline appears identical to the ones sitting in showrooms right now.
By the looks of it, Mercedes-Benz is taking a more evolutionary approach with the all-new GLA. Then again, the same could be said about the CLA and GLB, and their respective outlines remain true to the original models. Looking at current Mercedes design trends, we can expect those three-pointed daytime running lights and taillights, as well as a wide grille.
SH Proshots/Autoblog
Possible Powertrains
Mercedes-Benz didn’t give any hints about its upcoming new car, but the 2027 GLA is likely to share the same platform as the CLA and GLB. That means a mix of hybrid and electric powertrains, and it wouldn’t be much of a surprise if the ones used in the other Mercedes subcompacts will be applied here too.
If so, the hybrid versions are bound to use a turbocharged 1.5-liter Miller Cycle engine to boost efficiency. Should it use the same arrangement as the CLA, it’ll be paired with a single electric motor and a 1.3kWh battery. It could come in 180, 200, and 220 guises with power outputs of 156 hp, 184 hp, and 211 hp, respectively.
As for the electric versions, expect two battery sizes to be offered, along with two output options. It might have the same offerings as the GLB, meaning we could see 250+ and 350 4Matic badges on the tailgates of the electric GLA.
SH Proshots/Autoblog
What Models Could Land Stateside?
There’s no doubt that Europe will get a dizzying array of trims and versions of the GLA, but it’ll likely be simplified for the U.S. After all, the North American market gets the more powerful models from the start due to vastly different conditions and demands versus the European market.
With that, there might be just one hybrid model in the form of the GLA 220, the same way only the CLA 220 will be sold in the U.S. As for the EVs, there’s a good chance for both the 250+ and the 350 4Matic to make their way to America. Of course, we’ll know more details once it’s revealed, and it’s not too long of a wait, as its world premiere is locked in on July 29.
SH Proshots/Autoblog
