The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV has been launched in India, with the introductory prices staring at Rs 42.10 lakh for the petrol powered GLA 200 and going up to Rs 57.3 lakh for the performance focused AMG GLA 35 4Matic (ex-showroom, India). These prices are set to increase by Rs 1.5 lakh from July 1, 2021.
Mercedes was originally supposed to launch the second-gen GLA in India earlier this year, however, the launch had to be delayed due to the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic leading to lockdowns in many states.
- The Mercedes GLA is offered with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine
- The standard model is available in Progressive Line and AMG line trims
- The AMG GLA 35 4Matic gets a 306hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol
- The GLA 35 is also the third AMG to be assembled in India
It is worth mentioning that the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic is a CKD unit, meaning that it is the third AMG product to be assembled in India. Both the standard GLA and the AMG variant are available for booking on Mercedes’ online sales portal.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA: design
In terms of its appearance, the second generation of the GLA SUV looks considerably different to the model it replaces. The exterior styling has smoother and more flowing lines than the older model, while still having a rugged design – with its black cladding going all around the SUV. Overall, the new GLA clearly looks larger and more substantial than the previous-gen car. However, it is not just visually larger as the new GLA is 104mm taller and has a 30mm longer wheelbase than the previous generation. This has resulted in more interior space, especially at the rear – something the previous model lacked.
The AMG variant gets a few design details that help distinguish it from its regular counterpart. These include the Panamericana grille with prominent vertical slats, a new roof spoiler larger wheels and larger tailpipes. It also sports the GLA 35 as well as the AMG badges at the rear.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA: features
The new GLA comes pretty well equipped especially in its top trim, with features like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support as well as the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice prompt, a wireless charger, powered front seats with memory, 64 colour ambient lighting and a large sunroof to name a few.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA: engine and gearbox
Under the hood, the standard GLA is available with both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol engine is a 1.3-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged unit producing 163hp and 250Nm. It comes paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and is only offered in the front-wheel drive (FWD) layout.
The diesel unit offered with the new GLA is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine that develops 190hp and 400Nm. It comes with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and can be had in both FWD layout or Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive layout.
Lastly, we have the performance-oriented AMG GLA 35 4Matic which is equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that churns out 306hp and 400Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Mercedes offers the new GLA with an 8-year warranty on engine and transmission, in addition to the segment leading 3-year comprehensive vehicle warranty.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA: competition check
In our market, the new Mercedes GLA takes on the likes of the BMW X1, Volvo XC40, and Mini Countryman. The competition will heat up with the arrival of the second-gen Audi Q3.
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