Skip advert
Advertisement

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA revealed – compact SUV range topped by 301bhp GLA35 

Mercedes-Benz has launched the new GLA, bringing the compact SUV up to speed with the rest of the range

Following the reveal of the new Mercedes-Benz GLB, and more recently the updated GLS and GLE models, you’d think the brand’s SUV offensive was due a rest. It appears this is not the case, as its smallest SUV offering has just received an update, including the brand’s latest tech and an exterior design overhaul.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Rivalling the likes of Audi’s Q2 and the BMW X2, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has always sat in an unusual spot in the SUV market, standing barely any taller than a standard A-class hatch and offering little extra practicality. It seems the marque was keen to rectify this, with the 2020 model boasting 104mm of extra height over the outgoing model, and a 14mm reduction in length, adding a substantial dose of purpose to its image.

> New BMW X2 M35i revealed with 302bhp – BMW M’s return to the four-pot?

Going on sale in Spring 2020, the new GLA takes on the brand’s latest interior tech, giving buyers a choice of dual 7- or 10.5-inch infotainment screens and more. Despite the reduction in length, rear seat passengers will also now enjoy an additional 116mm of legroom and 43mm of shoulder room thanks to better packaging.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Advertisement - Article continues below

Though a full-fat 45 model is yet to be revealed, topping the range is the X2 M35i-rivalling GLA35, pushing 301bhp and 295lb ft of torque to all four wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch ’box for a 5.1sec 0-62mph sprint and 155mph top speed. The same 2-litre turbocharged four-pot you’ll find in the A35 produces peak power at 5800rpm, with peak torque between 3000 and 4000rpm.

Setting it apart from the standard car is a new AMG-specific grille, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, dual tips for the valved exhaust system, and various trim pieces (available in either chrome or gloss black) to denote its sporty nature. Four-piston, 350mm front and single-piston, 330mm rear brakes sit behind a choice of 19-, 20- or 21-inch wheels. Affalterbach’s tweaks don’t stop there, with carbonfibre inserts, red highlights, optional steering wheel buttons, brushed stainless steel pedals and more featuring in the cabin.

Both a plug-in hybrid and an AWD standard model are due to join the line-up, but for now only the 161bhp, 1.3-litre petrol GLA200 and 301bhp GLA35 are on offer.

Pricing for the new Mercedes-Benz GLA is still under wraps, but expect it to start from just under £30,000. Order books open early next year.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Cupra Formentor Abt review – a 365bhp crossover for Mercedes-AMG A45 S money
Cupra Formentor Abt – front
Reviews

Cupra Formentor Abt review – a 365bhp crossover for Mercedes-AMG A45 S money

It’s farewell to the original Cupra Formentor with an Abt-tuned run-out package. It’s a quietly excellent car; just a shame about the price...
14 Nov 2024
Audi Q8 review – refreshed BMW X6 rival feels slightly out-of-date
Audi Q8 – front
In-depth reviews

Audi Q8 review – refreshed BMW X6 rival feels slightly out-of-date

Audi has given the Q8 a light facelift, and though it’s a competent, refined SUV, it doesn’t move the game on from the 2018 original
13 Nov 2024
Mercedes-AMG G63 review – 577bhp truck is still a brute
Mercedes-AMG G63 front
Reviews

Mercedes-AMG G63 review – 577bhp truck is still a brute

A DBX707 or Range Rover Sport SV might be more competent, but the G63 has more presence than both combined
13 Nov 2024
Jaguar F-Pace (2016 - 2024) review
Jaguar F-Pace - front tracking
In-depth reviews

Jaguar F-Pace (2016 - 2024) review

The F-Pace has always looked and driven better than most of its rivals. In its final form, it has the interior and tech to match, too
8 Nov 2024
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

2026 BMW 3-series spied, with exhaust pipes
2026 BMW 3-series front
News

2026 BMW 3-series spied, with exhaust pipes

The next 3-series will ring in BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ and be electric, hybrid and ICE powered
18 Nov 2024
TVR Griffith (1990 - 2002): a pure and unadulterated sports car
TVR Griffith front
Features

TVR Griffith (1990 - 2002): a pure and unadulterated sports car

The Griffith established TVR as a genuine contender and transformed the company’s fortunes – and it’s still as exhilarating to drive now as it was in …
17 Nov 2024
Cupra Formentor Abt review – a 365bhp crossover for Mercedes-AMG A45 S money
Cupra Formentor Abt – front
Reviews

Cupra Formentor Abt review – a 365bhp crossover for Mercedes-AMG A45 S money

It’s farewell to the original Cupra Formentor with an Abt-tuned run-out package. It’s a quietly excellent car; just a shame about the price...
14 Nov 2024