2020 Mercedes GLA Compact Crossover Is The A-Class You’ll Most Likely Buy

Mercedes is putting the final touches on the new GLA compact crossover before the big reveal, which is believed to happen at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

The second generation of the GLA was spotted on public roads – this time with all doors attached to the body and a thin camouflage wrap trying to cover the new shape of the popular compact crossover.

Under the skin, the new GLA will ride on the same MFA architecture Mercedes is using for all of its compact models, including the A-Class, the CLA, the B-Class and of course the recently unveiled GLB -the largest model to use the platform.

Also Read: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA Looks Almost Ready To Become The GLB’s Sportier Alternative

Mercedes has been on a roll with the interiors of its compact model lineup lately and the GLA will follow the same recipe, featuring the familiar dual-display setup that runs the latest MBUX infotainment system, as well as better-quality materials. Interior room will also be improved, especially for the rear passengers, which will get more air for their heads and knees.

The engine range will largely mirror that of the regular A-Class while customers will be able to spec their new GLA with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system in combination with specific powertrains.

Base GLA 200 models will get the turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder petrol engine offered with up to 160hp (163PS) while a more powerful 220hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit will power the GLA 250. Diesel models will get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with up to 187hp (190PS), as well as a base 1.5-liter unit.

Those wishing for a bit more grunt will have to wait for the AMG versions, namely the GLA 35 and GLA 45 models. Both will be powered by turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engines, with the former getting 302hp and the latter up to 416hp (for now, at least). Think about it: a compact crossover hatchback with over 400hp; that’s the world we live in.

The new Mercedes GLA will compete with models like the Audi Q2 and the BMW X2, once it arrives in the market, leaving the boxier and more practical GLB to deal with the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1.