Mercedes-Benz has revealed the third-generation GLA with ICE and EV powertrains, merging both versions in a single nameplate, unlike before when the EQA EV was sold as a separate model. It is built on the MMA architecture. The EV is offered in three trims: 250, 250+ and 350, which offer the option of a 58kWh or an 85kWh battery pack, with a claimed range of up to 657km. The GLA ICE uses a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid assistance, and an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. 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 Electric's 250, 250+ are RWD, while 350 has a dual-motor AWD setup
- ICE-powered GLA SUV gets a FWD or AWD option
- 153mm longer than the predecessor; 61mm increase in wheelbase
- Third-gen GLA has a 410-litre boot; EV adds a 107-litre frunk
In the international markets, the GLA is currently offered only as an EV, with the ICE version slated to go on sale in 2027.
Third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA: Powertrain options
GLA EV gets two battery options currently; 71kWh version set to arrive 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 WLTP-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. The former produces 224hp and 335Nm, and the latter 272hp and 335Nm. The top-spec GLA 350 gets a dual-motor setup with one motor powering each axle, delivering 354hp and 515Nm. This AWD version is the quickest; it reaches 0-100kph in a claimed 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 210kph.
Mercedes-Benz says a 320kW DC fast charger can add up to 270km of range to the GLA EV in ten minutes, thanks to its 800-volt technology. The AC charging power is up to 22kW.
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 8-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 larger Mercedes 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 come with an illuminated grille surround. The new headlights feature tristar-shaped LED daytime running lamps (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 20 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 tail-lights with the same tristar lighting signature as the front DRLs. A full-width red light bar connects the tail-lights, while the gloss-black rear bumper with horizontal detailing adds contrast.
Here are the dimensions and other specifications of the third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA EV:
Compared to the previous-generation model, the third-gen GLA is 153mm longer, 39mm wider and has a 61mm longer wheelbase. Boot space has also increased by 70 litres, while the EV adds a 107-litre frunk, further improving practicality.
Third-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA: Interior design, features
Offered with an all-black cabin and an optional three-screen dashboard
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA gets a tech-focused cabin with an optional MBUX Superscreen triple-display setup that includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment screen and a 14-inch passenger display. The standard version features a glass panel with illuminated star patterns in front of the co-driver.
The three-spoke steering wheel has physical buttons for various functions. 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 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, a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera with an optional ‘transparent bonnet’ function, and automatic parking assistance.
In India, Mercedes-Benz currently offers the second-generation facelifted GLA only with an ICE powertrain, priced from Rs 51.80 lakh (ex-showroom). The third-generation model, especially the EV version, is expected to command a significantly higher price.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dhruv Dhaka
Saptarshi Mondal
