New Mercedes-Benz GLA set to bow in Frankfurt
Having done the rounds on various online platforms for a while now in pre-production form, Mercedes-Benz has reportedly announced that the new GLA will make its international unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
Based on the report from Autocar India, the GLA will complete the eight model range of Benz’s MFA2 underpinned models – the others being the A-Class hatch, sedan and Chinese market A-Class Sedan L, CLA and CLA Shooting Brake, B-Class and the recently launched GLB – and like the outgoing model (pictured) feature body cladding, a slightly raised ride height and roof rails amongst others to differentiate itself from the regular A-Class.
Inside, the GLA is unlikely to differ much from its hatch sibling with the 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster set to feature, along with the same assortment of driver assistance and safety systems.
The same applies to the powerunits where the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s co-developed 1.3-litre M 282 turbocharged engine will do duty in the GLA 200 (120kW/250Nm), while the GLA 250 will come powered by the three-pointed star’s own M 260 2.0-litre turbo that punches out 165kW/350Nm.
Later on, the AMG fettled GLAs will join the range in 35 forms (224kW/400Nm) and in 45 and 45 S guises with the latter pair set to debut the new M 139 2.0-litre motor that will deliver 285kW/480Nm and 310kW/500Nm.
Expect diesel power in the GLA 200d and 220d to come from the new 2.0-litre OM 654 motor that debuted in the B-Class with the former set to produce 110kW/320Nm and the latter 140kW/400Nm.
Whereas the non-AMG petrol models will continue to have the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the oil-burners could be outfitted with the new eight-speed dual-clutch that will be standard fare on the AMG GLA 35 and 45 / 45 S. Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system will also be available on some models.
Although unconfirmed, expect the GLA to make its South African market debut in early 2020.
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