When we discovered the first test mules of the next-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA out in the open in 2017, we thought the update would hit the market at some point in 2018 or 2019. However, the waiting has stretched for much longer than we had originally anticipated, and now it looks like the actual debut will occur in 2020. After all, the company has only just begun testing the new crossover/SUV in its own body.
Based on the latest spy shots, the new Mercedes-Benz GLA hasn’t strayed too far from its predecessor in terms of dimensions. Still, in line with the latest trends, the interior should become a little roomier.
The overall design of the car seems inspired by the GLB, the B-Class compact van, and the next-gen A-Class hatchback. But the main outlines are quite original: the rear overhang is extremely short, the rear part of roof is slanting, and the rear window is sharply reclined.
The 2020 GLA series will likely ship with the same assortment of engines as the latest A-Class. These include 1.5- and 2.0-liter diesels rated at 95, 116, 150 and 190 horsepower (71, 87, 112, and 142 kilowatts), as well as 1.3- and 2.0-liter gasoline engines rated between 109 and 224 hp (81 – 167 kW). The lineup will also incorporate two mild hybrids: the GLA 35 (306 / 228 kW) and the GLA 45 (405 hp / 302 kW). Finally, a PHEV version might be added to the lineup in the future, although this is by no means official yet.
Photos: carscoops.com