Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an all-new second-generation GLA, confirming its crucial entry-level SUV will return to Australia in the first half of 2027 with a choice of hybrid and electric power for the first time.
The decision to conjoin battery electric and petrol-hybrid powertrains under one badge follows similar decisions in relation to other small Mercedes-Benz models, including the new CLA and three-row GLB. The old EQA EV badge will be retired.
European markets will initially receive electric variants from November this year before hybrid models join in early 2027, but Chasing Cars understands Australian buyers are likely to see both EV and hybrid versions arrive before the middle of next year.
Visually, the new GLA grows into a more mature-looking SUV. At 4565mm long, it is around BMW X1-sized, while a 61mm wheelbase increases to 2790mm, a wider rear track and a 20mm lower roofline promise improved cabin space and tidier proportions.
The easiest way to distinguish the electric version is its fully illuminated and closed-off grille. Electric versions adopt Mercedes’ latest metal panel featuring 608 illuminated elements surrounding the central three-pointed star.
Hybrid variants, by comparison, retain a more traditional grille with 150 chrome stars and an LED light surround on higher grades.
Inside, Mercedes has substantially overhauled the cabin in response to criticism of recent interiors. Physical rollers return for volume and cruise control functions, while higher-quality materials, genuine-looking timber trims and tighter assembly all aim to restore the premium feel buyers expect from the brand.
A standard panoramic glass roof, redesigned centre console and new MBUX Superscreen headline the technology package.
Every GLA receives a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central touchscreen, while an optional 14-inch passenger display creates the appearance of a full-width glass dashboard.
A new-gen MB.OS operating system brings Google Maps navigation, generative AI voice assistance combining ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Bing, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring.
The extra dimensions also deliver worthwhile gains in practicality. Mercedes says second-row legroom has increased by 38mm, while the boot expands to 410 litres (70 litres more than before) and 1400 litres with the rear seats folded.
Electric models add a useful 107-litre front boot, while 4MATIC versions can tow up to 2000kg.
Three BEV models will be offered initially. The entry-level rear-drive GLA200 electric develops 165kW/335Nm and uses a 58kWh usable LFP battery for WLTP range of 394-447km. Above it sits the rear-drive GLA 250+ electric with 200kW/335Nm, an 85kWh usable NMC battery and up to 657km of WLTP range.
Topping the EV line-up at launch is the dual-motor GLA 350 4MATIC electric, producing 260kW/515Nm, sprinting to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds while still claiming up to 643km of WLTP range thanks to a front motor disconnect system.
All 85kWh models can charge at up to 320kW DC, adding around 270km of range in 10 minutes or completing a 10-80 per cent recharge in 22 minutes. A fourth electric model using a 71kWh battery will follow during early 2027.
Combustion models are expected to closely mirror the new CLA range already confirmed for Australia.
Chasing Cars understands the hybrid lineup may comprise GLA 180, GLA 200 and GLA 250 4MATIC grades, powered by Mercedes’ new 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Outputs are expected to span approximately 100kW, 120kW and 140kW respectively, with the integrated electric motor contributing a 22kW boost while allowing low-speed electric driving, coasting and energy recuperation. AMG variants are expected to join the range later.
Australian pricing is yet to be announced, though the new GLA is likely to follow the recently announced CLA strategy.
That points to a starting price of around $70,000 before on-road costs for hybrid models, with electric variants expected to begin from roughly $75,000-$80,000 and climb beyond $90,000 for the flagship GLA 350 4MATIC electric.
That would represent a modest premium over the outgoing GLA while positioning the newcomer squarely against the BMW X1 and iX1, Audi Q3 and forthcoming Q3 e-tron, Volvo EX40 and XC40, Lexus UX, and Genesis GV60 at the upper end of the range.
