Mercedes-Benz has revealed the third-generation GLA, introducing an all-electric version for the first time. The GLA EV is offered in three trims: 250, 250+ and 350. It gets either a 58kWh or 85kWh battery pack, with a claimed range of up to 657km. A mild-hybrid version with an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system will be introduced later. The new GLA also gets a fresh design inspired by Mercedes-Benz's latest SUVs and a tech-focused cabin featuring a triple-screen setup.
- GLA EV is offered with either a 58kWh or an 85kWh battery option
- 143mm longer than the predecessor, wheelbase also larger by 61mm
- Offers 410-litre boot with the EV getting a 107-litre frunk
Third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA: Powertrain options
GLA EV gets either a 58kWh or an 85kWh battery; 71kWh battery to go on sale in 2027
The Mercedes-Benz GLA EV is available in three trims internationally: 250, 250+ and 350. The base GLA 250 gets a 58kWh LFP battery pack with a claimed range of up to 447km. The higher-spec 250+ and 350 variants use a larger 85kWh NMC battery pack, offering a claimed range of up to 657km. Mercedes-Benz will also introduce a 71kWh NMC battery option in early 2027.
The GLA 250 and 250+ come with a single rear-axle-mounted electric motor, producing 224hp and 335Nm, and 272hp and 335Nm, respectively. The top-spec GLA 350 gets a dual-motor setup with one motor powering each axle, delivering 354hp and 515Nm. This AWD is the quickest version, reaching 0-100kph in a claimed 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 210kph.
GLA ICE to be offered with a 1.5L four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with FWD or AWD
The ICE version of the third-gen GLA will arrive internationally in 2027. It will be powered by Mercedes-Benz’s new 'M 252' 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine will come with an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (8F-eDCT), with power sent to either the front wheels or all four wheels. Mercedes-Benz has yet to reveal the engine’s power and torque figures.
Third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA: Exterior design
Looks bolder than before and aligns with the design of Mercedes’ larger SUVs
The third-generation GLA features a bolder design that closely follows Mercedes-Benz’s latest SUV styling. At the front, it gets a large grille with different treatments for the EV and ICE versions. The electric model features multiple LED elements arranged in horizontal strips, while the ICE version gets chrome tristar detailing. Both versions come with an illuminated grille surround. The new headlights feature tristar-shaped LED DRLs, while the front bumper gets two black inserts that add to its sporty appearance.
In profile, the GLA gets dual-tone alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 19 inches in size, and has gloss-black wheel arch cladding along with a black lower body finish. These elements create a strong contrast that enhances the SUV's rugged stance.
At the rear, the GLA features wraparound taillights with the same tristar lighting signature as the front DRLs. A full-width red light bar connects the taillights, while the gloss-black rear bumper with horizontal detailing adds contrast.
Third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA: Interior design, features
Offered with an all-black cabin with an optional three-screen dashboard
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA gets a tech-focused cabin with an optional Mercedes’ MBUX Superscreen triple-display setup. It includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment screen and a 14-inch passenger display. However, the triple-screen layout is optional, with the standard version featuring a glass panel with illuminated star patterns in front of the co-driver.
The third-gen GLA gets a three-spoke steering wheel with physical buttons for infotainment controls. Apart from these, the only other physical controls are on the centre console, while the air conditioning functions are controlled through the touchscreen. The cabin features an all-black theme with silver accents on the centre console and doors for added contrast. Depending on the variant, the GLA EV is offered with either fabric or leatherette seats.
In terms of features, the third-generation GLA EV comes equipped with a 16-speaker Burmester 3D sound system, panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera with an optional ‘transparent bonnet’ function, and automatic parking assistance.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
