Mercedes-Benz decided that its next GLA could not be limited to a simple change in appearance. The compact SUV receives a profound transformation that touches practically all its sections, from the mechanics to the technology that accompanies the driver.
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The new generation will arrive in the United States during the second half of 2027 and will have two quite defined paths.
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On the one hand there will be the completely electric versions and, on the other, the 48-volt hybrid alternatives for those who still prefer to combine a combustion engine with electrical assistance.
More space and a different image
The GLA 2028 grows in dimensions and gains 2.6 inches in wheelbase. This increase not only seeks to give it a more stable posture on the asphalt, but also to improve conditions for those traveling inside.
Mercedes-Benz widened the rear track and visually reinforced the shoulders of the body for a more robust appearance. The electric versions can also be distinguished by a new illuminated grille with hundreds of light points.
The hybrid models will retain the traditional Mercedes-Benz grille, although they will also receive LED lighting for a more modern look.
Two paths for mechanics
The electric GLA will initially be available in two configurations. The GLA 250 Electric develops 268 horsepower, while the GLA 350 4MATIC Electric reaches up to 349 horsepower.
Both use an 85 kWh NMC battery and can achieve up to 408 miles of range. In the case of the GLA 350 4MATIC, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is completed in just 5.3 seconds.
Charging is also improved thanks to an 800-volt electrical architecture. With a compatible direct current fast charger, Mercedes-Benz ensures that it is possible to recover up to 270 kilometers of autonomy in just ten minutes.
For those who don't want to make the full jump to electric vehicles just yet, the GLA hybrid combines a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system. The electric drive adds 30 horsepower and allows driving using electricity exclusively under certain conditions.
The transmission also changes. Mercedes-Benz uses an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch automatic that seeks to combine smoother responses with lower consumption.
Artificial intelligence gets into the GLA
The technological part is probably one of the most interesting changes of this generation. Mercedes-Benz incorporated a new MBUX Virtual Assistant based on generative artificial intelligence.
The system can maintain more natural conversations, preserve the context of what is being talked about, and answer complex questions from different sources of information.
To achieve this, Mercedes-Benz combines technologies from ChatGPT, Microsoft and Google. Integration with Google Cloud also allows you to use Google Maps data to consult routes, charging stations, restaurants, hotels and other nearby places.
The MB.OS operating system learns from the user's habits and can organize the functions and applications that are used most frequently.
A much larger digital experience
The GLA 2028 can incorporate the MBUX Superscreen, a configuration that brings together three screens. The driver has a 10.25-inch panel in front of him, while the center has a 14-inch screen and the front passenger has another independent 14-inch screen.
Whoever travels in the passenger seat will be able to access entertainment services such as Disney or Sony RIDEVU without affecting the functions necessary for driving.
The increased wheelbase also translates into a more comfortable cabin. There's more legroom up front and more knee and head room in the second row.
A panoramic glass roof will be standard. Those who want something more sophisticated can opt for SKY CONTROL, which electronically switches between transparent and opaque in a matter of milliseconds.
Cargo space also improves and the rear seatbacks can be folded in a 40/20/40 configuration.
More cameras and sensors for driving
Mercedes-Benz also beefed up assistance capabilities. The GLA 2028 can use eight cameras, five radars and twelve ultrasonic sensors, all connected to a central computer capable of processing up to 254 teraoperations per second.
Artificial intelligence allows you to continuously analyze what is happening around the SUV. Among the available functions are DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, advanced parking with 360-degree vision and traffic light and stop sign recognition.
A camera with a “transparent hood” function is also offered, specially designed to facilitate off-road driving, as well as an assistance that helps prevent damage to the wheels during certain maneuvers.
Mercedes-Benz has not yet confirmed how much the 2028 GLA will cost in the United States. As a reference, it is expected that the access version can approach $50,000, although the final price will be known later.
The arrival in American dealerships is scheduled for the second half of 2027, with a proposal that seeks to maintain the GLA as one of Mercedes-Benz's most technological compact models, but now with a much clearer offer between electrification, artificial intelligence and assisted driving.
