By Xolile Hopa

Mercedes-Benz has pulled the covers off the all-new third-generation GLA, marking a significant evolution of its compact SUV. Built on the brand’s new Modular Architecture (MMA), the GLA introduces a larger footprint, more advanced technology and a choice of battery-electric and mild-hybrid powertrains. It also shares its underpinnings with the latest CLA sedan and wagon, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s electric-first approach to its next generation of compact vehicles.

Larger dimensions, more space

The new GLA has grown substantially in every key measurement. It now measures 4,565mm in length, an increase of 102mm over its predecessor, while its width has expanded by 39mm to 1,873mm. The wheelbase has also stretched by 61mm to 2,790mm, promising improved cabin space and greater comfort for passengers.

Inside, the additional dimensions translate into meaningful gains. Rear-seat passengers benefit from up to 38mm more legroom, while headroom has increased by 23mm in the front and 24mm in the rear. Combined with the standard panoramic glass roof, the cabin feels noticeably more spacious and airier than before.

The rear seats feature a practical 40:20:40 split-fold design, allowing for greater flexibility when carrying passengers and cargo. The luggage compartment has also expanded significantly, with the electric GLA offering 410 litres of boot space, 70 litres more than the previous model. Fold the rear seats flat and capacity increases to 1,400 litres.

A welcome addition is the 107-litre front storage compartment (frunk), which is large enough to accommodate charging cables, small bags or sporting equipment.

Fresh styling with a modern identity

Mercedes-Benz has given the new GLA a bold new design that closely follows the styling direction introduced by the latest GLB. The front end is dominated by a large, upright grille, while electrified variants feature an illuminated panel incorporating an impressive 608 LED stars. Slim, teardrop-shaped headlights feature the brand’s signature three-pointed star lighting motif, giving the SUV a distinctive appearance both day and night.

Flush pop-out door handles improve aerodynamics and create cleaner body lines, while the rear adopts a sportier look thanks to a steeply raked tailgate and redesigned LED tail-lights, which also feature the illuminated Mercedes-Benz star motif.

High-tech cabin

Step inside and it’s immediately clear that Mercedes-Benz has prioritised technology. The dashboard is centred around a wide glass panel that combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.5-inch central touchscreen. An optional passenger display is also available, while models without it receive an illuminated trim panel finished with Mercedes-Benz’s signature star pattern.

Physical buttons have largely disappeared, with most functions now controlled through the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system. The AI-powered virtual assistant offers improved natural voice recognition and can proactively assist with navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings.

Electric models lead in range

The new GLA has been engineered primarily for battery-electric propulsion, using an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture that supports ultra-fast charging and impressive efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz claims the entry-level GLA 200 Electric delivers between 394km and 447km of WLTP driving range from its 58kWh usable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.

The mid-range GLA 250+ Electric receives a larger 85kWh usable nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery, boosting range to between 577km and 657km while producing 200kW and 335Nm.

Topping the line-up is the dual-motor GLA 350 4Matic Electric, generating 260kW and 515Nm. Mercedes-Benz claims it accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 5.4 seconds while still offering between 555km and 643km of driving range.

Charging performance is equally impressive. Connected to a compatible 320kW DC fast charger, the GLA can recover up to 270km of driving range in just 10 minutes.

Safety and driver assistance

Safety has also received a major upgrade. Depending on the selected MB.Drive package, the GLA can assist with steering, acceleration, braking and automated parking, offering an advanced level of semi-autonomous driving capability.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa has not yet confirmed whether the third-generation GLA will be introduced locally. Should it arrive, it would effectively replace both the current combustion-powered GLA and the all-electric EQA, bringing the two model lines together under Mercedes-Benz’s new Modular Architecture. Local pricing and specifications will be announced should the new GLA be approved for the South African market.