Key highlights
- 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA revealed
- Gets an EV powertrain with two battery packs
- Global deliveries to start from November 2026
Mercedes-Benz has taken the cover off the third-generation GLA SUV. The new GLA packs a complete makeover, including a new cabin design, new exterior, and a new electric powertrain as well. It is expected to land in India next year in EV and mild-hybrid guise.
2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA: Everything you should know
The new GLA has undergone a massive redesign. While the SUV has retained its coupe-like roofline from the first-generation model, it now looks in line with the latest design philosophy of the brand.
Exterior design
On the exterior, it gets a sculpted bonnet, a new nose with a bigger, illuminated grille that has tri-star LEDs embedded into it, a set of new Digital Light LED headlights with the tri-star daytime running lights, and a new bumper with air dams on the lower ends.
The side profile will remind you of the outgoing version to an extent, especially the rear-quarter panel that has a sloping roofline and a sporty outlook. The new changes include the sporty alloy wheels ranging from 18-20 inches, flush door handles, new mirrors, and a subtle bodyline.
Moving to the back, this is the area that has undergone a radical makeover. A set of new C-shaped LED taillights with the tri-star logo looks completely radical compared to the older generation. Moreover, the sloping windshield is merged into an uplifted boot, which gives it a look like a hatchback. Another addition is a new sporty bumper design with gloss black cladding.
The new-generation GLA has also grown in size. It is 153 mm longer, 39 mm wider, and has a 61 mm longer wheelbase than the outgoing model. It also gets 70 litres more boot space than the previous version.
Interior and features
The cabin design of the new-gen GLA is inspired by the new-gen CLA sedan. The all-new dashboard features the optional Superscreen setup that boasts a 10.25-inch digital driver console, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and a 14-inch passenger entertainment screen.
Meanwhile, the new three-spoke steering wheel gets physical control buttons, while the cabin is draped in a black and silver dual-tone theme. Depending on the variant, the GLA offers fabric or leather upholstery with contrasting elements.
The new GLA packs a host of latest features, including wireless charging, 64-bit custom ambient LED lighting, panoramic sunroof, OTA updates, touch climate control buttons, a 14-speaker Brumester 3D sound system, an ‘under-bonnet’ camera view, a new 360-degree surround view, and Level 2 autonomous safety features.
Battery, range, performance
The new GLA will be offered in EV guise initially. It will offer two battery packs as follows:
- GLA 250 & GLA 250+: 58 kWh LFP battery, 447 km range, 221 bhp/335 Nm (GLA 250) & 268 bhp/335 Nm (GLA 250+), front-wheel drive
- GLA 350: 85 kWh NMC battery, 657 km range, all-wheel drive, 349 bhp/515 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, 210 km/h top speed
The above-mentioned battery options feature 320 kW DC charging, which can juice the GLA EV with 270 km of range under 10 minutes of charging. Mercedes will later introduce a 71 kWh battery pack option in 2027.
Mild-hybrid engine specifications
Mercedes will later introduce the ICE version of the new-generation GLA. It will be powered by an all-new 1.5-litre four-cylinder ‘M 252’ turbo petrol engine, which will be paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This powertrain will be offered with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. It is paired with a new 8-speed DCT gearbox.
India launch and price
The new-generation GLA is expected to arrive in India later this year or early next year. It will be positioned against the BMW X1 and the upcoming Audi Q3. We suspect that it will be priced around Rs 55-60 lakh.
Also read: Hyundai Neira concept is a Kia Carens Clavis EV in disguise
