Mercedes-Benz has officially revealed the third-generation GLA globally. It includes both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains under a single, unified nameplate. Moving away from the previous strategy where the electric version was sold separately as the EQA, the new SUV is built on the brand’s modular MMA architecture.
In international markets, the third-generation GLA is making its debut exclusively as an EV, with the petrol-powered ICE model scheduled to follow in 2027.
Electric and Petrol Powertrains Explained
The electric GLA EV launches with three distinct trims—250, 250+, and 350—featuring a choice of battery sizes and drivetrain configurations:
- GLA 250: Powered by a 58kWh LFP battery pack mated to a single rear-axle-mounted electric motor (RWD). It generates 224hp and 335Nm of torque, delivering a WLTP-claimed range of up to 447km.
- GLA 250+: Features a larger 85kWh NMC battery pack and a single rear-axle motor (RWD), producing 272hp and 335Nm with an impressive claimed range of up to 657km.
- GLA 350: Uses the 85kWh NMC battery paired with a dual-motor setup (AWD) with one motor on each axle. It develops a combined 354hp and 515Nm, accelerating from 0 to 100kph in a claimed 5.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 210kph. It also offers a claimed range of up to 657km.
Mercedes-Benz has also confirmed that a middle-tier 71kWh NMC battery option will arrive in early 2027. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the GLA EV supports 320kW DC fast charging, which can replenish up to 270km of range in just ten minutes. AC charging capability is capped at 22kW.
The ICE-powered GLA, arriving globally in 2027, will be driven by Mercedes-Benz’s new ‘M 252’ 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine integrated with a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup. Power is channelled through an electrified 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (8F-eDCT) in either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Output figures for the engine have not yet been disclosed.
Bolder Exterior Styling and Dimensions
Visually, the third-gen GLA adopts a bolder aesthetic that mirrors the design language of larger Mercedes-Benz SUVs. Both EV and ICE versions feature a prominent front grille surrounded by an illuminated frame, though each gets bespoke detailing: horizontal LED strips for the EV and chrome tristar accents for the ICE model.
The front light clusters house tristar-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), while the front bumper includes twin black inserts for a sportier look. Along the profile, the SUV sports dual-tone alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches, gloss-black wheel arch cladding, and a dark lower-body finish. At the back, wraparound tail-lights mirror the tristar lighting signature up front and are connected by a full-width red light bar above a gloss-black rear bumper.
Key Dimensions & Capacity Comparison
| Dimension / Spec | Measurement | Difference vs Previous Gen |
| Length | 4,565 mm | +153 mm |
| Width | 1,873 mm | +39 mm |
| Height | 1,604 mm | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,790 mm | +61 mm |
| Boot Space | 410 litres | +70 litres |
| Frunk Space (EV only) | 107 litres | New addition |
Tech-Loaded Cabin and Interior Equipment
Inside, the new GLA presents an all-black interior layout highlighted by silver accents across the doors and centre console. Depending on the selected variant, seating is finished in fabric or leatherette.
The dashboard can be equipped with an optional MBUX Superscreen setup comprising three displays:
- A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- A 14-inch central infotainment touchscreen
- A 14-inch dedicated passenger display
Standard models without the triple-screen setup come with a glass panel featuring illuminated star patterns in front of the front passenger. While climate functions are operated through the central touchscreen, physical buttons are retained on the three-spoke steering wheel and centre console.
In terms of comfort and convenience features, the SUV packs:
- 16-speaker Burmester 3D sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- 360-degree camera system with an optional ‘transparent bonnet’ view
- Automatic parking assistance
Current Indian Market Outlook
In India, Mercedes-Benz currently sells the second-generation facelifted GLA exclusively with an ICE powertrain, priced from ₹51.80 lakh (ex-showroom). The arrival of this third-generation model—particularly the all-electric GLA variant—is expected to command a noticeably higher price tag when it hits the local market.
