New Mercedes-Benz GLA 2020: Small SUV range detailed ahead of Q3 launch

Mercedes-Benz has detailed petrol variants of its upcoming GLA range, as it opens up the order books in Europe.

Much like the A-Class and upcoming GLB small SUV, Australia is only destined to receive petrol powertrains for the new-generation GLA, despite a range of diesel options which will go on sale in Europe.

Opening the line-up is the entry-level 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder GLA 200 (120kW/250Nm) which drives the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, followed by the mid-grade 2.0-litre turbo GLA 250 (165kW/350Nm) which can be had as either a front- or all-wheel drive, and is paired to a new eight-speed dual-clutch auto it shares with the GLB.

In terms of performance, the GLA 200 will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.7 seconds, whereas the GLA 250 will do the same sprint in 6.9 or 6.7s for front- or all-wheel drive respectively.

Already announced are the figures for the performance focused Mercedes-AMG GLA35, which sports a 225kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo mated to an eight-speed dual clutch. It will trim 0-100km/h times down to just 5.1s.

Like its larger GLB sibling, 4Matic GLAs will get off-road modes as standard.

We also expect to see an even higher-performance Mercedes-AMG GLA45 added to the line-up in the coming months. Expect the same performance figures from a 2.0-litre turbo as seen in the A45 hatch (310kW/500Nm) using an eight-speed dual-clutch auto and Benz’ 4Matic+ enhanced all-wheel drive with dedicated track modes and variable traction control.

All 4Matic all-wheel-drive models will get an ‘Off-Road Engineering Package’ as standard which includes an off-road driving mode, downhill accelerator control and off-road displays.

The GLA will have key safety improvements like auto emergency braking (AEB – works up to 60km/h and detects pedestrians) lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Like its larger GLB sibling, the GLA will feature the MBUX multimedia suite across the range, including ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control.

Expect the GLA to have all of Benz' latest-generation cabin tech.

Stay tuned for full spec and pricing of petrol variants destined for Australia which will be announced in the coming months.