Mercedes is finally clearing the decks. They’ve already dropped the big guns this year—the new GLS and GLC—but the real story for most buyers is happening on July 29. That’s when the third-generation Mercedes GLA officially debuts.
It’s the entry-level SUV. It’s the gateway drug. And it’s changing everything about how we think about compact luxury crossovers.
Why the new Mercedes GLA matters
Let’s be clear: the outgoing model was fine. But this new one? It’s a different animal entirely.
Sitting on Mercedes’ brand-new MMA architecture (Modular Electric Drive Architecture), the Mk3 GLA isn’t just a facelift. It’s a ground-up redesign meant to compete with the likes of the BMW iX1 and Audi Q4 e-tron, but with a significant tech edge.
The biggest shift? Powertrain flexibility. Mercedes isn’t betting the farm on EVs alone. The new GLA will offer combustion engines and hybrid systems alongside fully electric variants. In fact, the all-electric GLA is set to replace the confusingly named EQA. This mirrors the strategy used for the GLB. Combustion and electric, side by side. Same chassis, different souls.
The MMA platform was designed specifically for these compact models. It’s built around an 800-volt electrical system and Mercedes’ latest “digital brain.” This makes the car a true software-defined vehicle. You’re not just buying metal and glass; you’re buying an operating system that gets better over time.
Electric GLA specs, range, and battery options
So, how far can it go?
Mercedes hasn’t released every single spec yet, but the picture is clear. The EV lineup will start with two models.
First, there’s the GLA 250+. It pairs a rear-mounted 262bhp electric motor with an 85kWh battery. Then there’s the performance-focused GLA 350. That one adds a second motor for all-wheel drive, pushing output to 348bhp.
Later down the line, a more affordable GLA 250 will arrive. It uses a smaller 58kWh battery. This is how Mercedes plans to keep the price competitive against the £38k CLA sedan. We don’t expect a huge price gap between the hybrid and electric versions, which is rare. Usually, the EV tag adds a premium. Not here.
What about range?
The GLA 250+ is expected to deliver between 400 and 420 miles on a single charge.
That’s impressive. But it’s not the best Mercedes offers. The new CLA sedan can hit 484 miles. Why the difference? Aerodynamics. The GLA is taller, boxier, more upright. It fights the wind more than the sleeker sedan.
Still, beat your competitors? Easily. The current BMW iX1 maxes out at around 320 miles (WLTP). The Audi Q4 e-tron tops out near 350 miles. Even the outgoing EQA—based on the previous GLA platform—only managed 345 miles. With AMG Line trim and its big wheels, that number dropped to a disappointing 314 miles. The new GLA leaves all of that behind.
Hybrid GLA and combustion options remain
Not ready to plug in? Good news. Mercedes knows it.
The new GLA will feature a mild-hybrid variant. It uses the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine found in the new CLA and GLB. It’s paired with a 48V system to smooth things out.
You can get it with front-wheel drive or optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. Power output sits between 160bhp and 90bhp.
But what if you want speed?
AMG is working on it. Expect a tiered structure similar to the old GLA 35 and 45 models. Here’s the twist: these high-performance versions won’t be petrol-powered. They’ll be dual-motor EVs. High torque. Instant delivery. No diesel. Mercedes isn’t bringing diesel to the MMA platform at all.
Software-defined vehicle features and tech
This isn’t just about the motor. It’s about the mind.
Mercedes is pouring billions into software, and the new GLA is the proof. The MMA platform centers on a supercomputer. It handles over-the-air updates better than ever. It streamlines communication between all car functions.
What does that mean for you?
It means semi-autonomous driving features could arrive later via update. No waiting for a hardware retrofit. It’s all built-in.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the CLA and GLB. You’ll find the familiar bank of screens.
- 10.25-inch digital driver display
- 14.5-inch central touchscreen
- Optional passenger screen
It runs the new MBUX system. Fully online. And it integrates fresh AI-based voice recognition. It’s less about buttons, more about conversation.
Space? It’s tighter than you might hope. The GLA sits close to the GLB in scale and customer base. It won’t grow drastically in any direction. But electric versions might get extra storage under the bonnet—since there’s no engine to take up that space. A nice bonus.
When can you buy the new Mercedes GLA?
The reveal is set for July 29. Spy shots have already confirmed the smooth side surfacing. The camo is gone. The grille is loaded with three-pointed stars, because Mercedes loves its branding.
Is it enough?
The GLA is no longer just a small SUV. It’s a tech demo on wheels. It’s faster, smarter, and ranges further than anything before it. But will the higher price of the MMA platform deter budget buyers? We’ll have to wait and see.
For now, the question isn’t whether it’s good. It’s whether it’s enough to make you ditch the petrol habit.
Or maybe you’ll just wait for the AMG EV version. Who am I to judge?
