Mercedes-Benz is all set to expand its SUV portfolio in India. Currently, the carmaker has no SUV on offer below the ML 250 CDI in its line-up here. To plug this gap, Mercedes will launch the GLA compact luxury SUV in India on September 30, 2014. The Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV is based on Mercedes’ front-wheel-drive MFA platform.

 

The Indian version of the Mercedes GLA SUV will come in petrol guise, equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol motor good for 181bhp. There will also be a GLA 200 CDI variant equipped with a 2.2-litre diesel engine. Both engines will be paired to a seven-speed gearbox.

 

Both variants are expected to come with front-wheel-drive only. The Mercedes GLA is expected to compete with the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Volvo V40 Cross Country.

 

We expect the Mercedes GLA 200 to be priced around Rs 30-32 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings for the Mercedes GLA have been underway for some months already with deliveries expected soon after official launch. 

 

Read our exclusive first drive review of the India-bound Mercedes GLA SUV in our 15th Anniversary issue, on stands now.

 

Akbar Merchant