After much anticipation, the all-new compact crossover from Mercedes-Benz, the GLA-Class, will make its worldwide debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
The international launch of the all-new GLA is set for this November. The new crossover brings in an all-new model line and is based on the Modular Front Architecture (MFA) used by the company on their A- and B-Class models, and also underpins the CLA-Class entry-luxury sedan, which will also arrive in India next year.
The GLA-Class will be offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, similar to the drivetrain line-up available on the current A- and B-Class cars. However, unlike these models, it will be better-suited to handle rough roads and the great outdoors beyond the city. The concept vehicle, shown earlier this year, measured 4,383mm long, 1,978mm wide and 1,579mm high, but now, the production version measures in at 4,417mm long, 1,804mm wide and 1,494mm high; so it has grown a bit, while sitting lower.
Most of the line-up will, of course, be front-driven. Mercedes-Benz will have their optimised 7-speed dual-clutch G-Tronic offered as standard on all models. The GLA 200 petrol and diesel will be front-driven, while the GLA 250 and GLA 220 CDI will also offer the company’s ‘4matic’ intelligent all-wheel-drive system as an option, specially tuned for application on this platform; being front-biased most of the time, but capable of splitting the drive 50:50. We also expect AMG to step in with a hot GLA 45 AMG model, complete with 4matic and 360 PS!
Feature-wise, the GLA-Class may also debut with the innovative laser-lighting and projector setup, which can display details from the satellite navigation system on the road surface ahead. Not only is this feature very useful to the driver, it is also considered beneficial other road users. It will also incorporate the latest entertainment, communication and safety technology, as expected from a modern-day Mercedes.
The Frankfurt Motor Show will be held from September 10 to 22. We shall keep you updated with all the goings on right here online, so stay tuned!
