The Mercedes Benz GLA made its debut back in 2013 and the baby SUV from the Stuttgart-based manufacturer received a facelift in 2017, albeit a mild one. Now, a few spy shots of a brand new SUV undergoing tests have confirmed that Mercedes-Benz is developing the second-gen GLA.
The second-generation of the compact SUV is based on the MFA2 platform that also underpins the 2019 A-Class hatchback. The similarity between the two cars is not limited to their platforms, which means to say the new GLA apes the A-Class on the styling front as well. In fact, it looks like an A-Class on stilts.
Like the A-Class, the new GLA also gets a squat stance at the front, where you바카라™ll find a new grille which is wider than before. It also gets angular headlamps with L-shaped daytime running lamps (DRLs). At the back, it features rounded tail lamps. Even though it바카라™s not visible in the spy shots, we believe that the GLA will have body cladding all around, like the current model.
Pictured: 2019 A-Class Hatchback Interiors
The GLA is expected to take inspiration from the A-Class on the inside as well. So expect it to feature a dual-screen setup, air turbine-like circular AC vents and a new steering wheel with touch-based controls. The new GLA should also get the new MBUX AI-based infotainment system which made its debut with the 2019 A-Class.
Pictured: 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Hatchback
Under the bonnet, the GLA is expected to be offered with three engine options: a 1.4-litre petrol, 2.0-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel, same as the ones found on the A-Class as well. The 1.4-litre petrol engine produces 163PS of power and 250Nm of peak torque, while the 2.0-litre petrol is good for 224PS and 350Nm. The lone 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 116PS and 260Nm. All engines will be offered with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard. However, the 2.0-litre petrol engine is also likely to be offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox as well.
The second-gen is expected to make its debut in 2019, followed by its International launch later in the year. Expect the new GLA to makes its way to India by late-2019 or early-2020. But before that happens, Mercedes-Benz is expected to launch the A-Class sedan to replace the A-Class hatchback, which has been on sale here since 2012. When launched, the GLA will continue to compete with the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Volvo XC40. The A-Class sedan, on the other hand, will give a tough fight to the Audi A3.
Source:Â
