Third-Gen Mercedes-Benz GLA Unveiled: First Time in EV Avatar

Mercedes-Benz has pulled the wraps off the third generation of its popular compact SUV, the GLA, and for the first time ever, the model gets a fully electric version alongside a conventional combustion-engine variant. Built on the brand's new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, the GLA EV arrives with a bolder design, a tech-heavy cabin, and battery options offering a claimed range of up to 657km. A mild-hybrid petrol version with an optional AWD system is set to join the range in 2027.

Exterior

The new-generation GLA sports a noticeably bolder face than its predecessor, borrowing design cues from Mercedes-Benz's larger, more recent SUVs. Up front, it gets a large grille that differs between the two powertrains: the EV features horizontal strips of LED elements, while the ICE version sticks to a more traditional chrome tristar treatment, with both getting an illuminated grille surround. Tristar-shaped LED daytime running lamps headline the new headlight units, and a pair of black inserts on the front bumper lend it a sportier stance.

Along the sides, the SUV rides on dual-tone alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches, complemented by gloss-black wheel-arch cladding and a black lower-body treatment that reinforces its rugged look. At the back, wraparound tail-lights mirror the tristar signature from the front, joined by a full-width red light bar, while a gloss-black bumper with horizontal detailing rounds off the design.

Size-wise, the new GLA has grown across the board: it's 153mm longer, 39mm wider, and has a 61mm longer wheelbase than the outgoing model. Boot space stands at 410 litres, up 70 litres over before, and the EV additionally gains a 107-litre front trunk for extra storage.

Interior

Inside, the third-gen GLA moves to an all-black cabin theme with silver accents on the centre console and doors for contrast. The highlight is an optional MBUX Superscreen setup spanning three displays: a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and a 14-inch screen for the front passenger. Cars without this setup instead get an illuminated, star-patterned glass panel ahead of the passenger seat.

The three-spoke steering wheel retains physical buttons, and aside from a few controls on the centre console, most functions, including climate control, are operated through the touchscreen. Seat upholstery is offered in either fabric or leatherette depending on the trim.

On the equipment front, the GLA EV comes loaded with a 16-speaker Burmester 3D surround-sound system, a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera with an optional transparent-bonnet feature, and automatic parking assistance.

Motor Specifications

The GLA EV will be sold in three trims globally: 250, 250+ and 350, with power coming from electric motors rather than an engine. The 250 and 250+ use a single motor on the rear axle, making 227 PS/335 Nm and 275 PS/335 Nm respectively. The range-topping 350 gets a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup producing a combined 357 PS and 515 Nm, enough for a 0-100 kmph sprint in a claimed 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 210 kmph.

The petrol version, due internationally in 2027, will use Mercedes-Benz's new 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol 'M 252' engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an 8-speed electrified dual-clutch transmission (8F-eDCT). Buyers will be able to choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, though Mercedes-Benz has not yet disclosed power and torque figures for this unit.

Battery And Charging

The GLA EV launches with a choice of two battery packs. The entry-level 250 trim uses a 58kWh LFP battery good for a WLTP-claimed range of up to 447km, while the 250+ and 350 get a larger 85kWh NMC battery pack that pushes the claimed range to as much as 657km. A third option, a 71kWh NMC battery, is scheduled to join the lineup in early 2027.

Thanks to 800-volt electrical architecture, the GLA EV supports DC fast charging at up to 320kW, which Mercedes-Benz says can add up to 270km of range in just ten minutes. AC charging tops out at 22kW.

Expected Launch And Price

In India, Mercedes-Benz currently sells only the facelifted second-generation GLA with an ICE powertrain, priced from Rs 51.80 lakh (ex-showroom). The new third-generation model, especially the all-electric variant, is expected to command a noticeably higher price tag once it arrives, given the upgrades in technology, design, and range. Official India launch timelines are yet to be announced by Mercedes-Benz.