There’s a compact SUV in the future for Mercedes-Benz on the strength of the Concept GLA being unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show – in fact the show car looks virtually production-ready.
Measuring 4383mm in length and 1579mm in height, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is virtually identical in size to BMW’s X1 and the Audi Q3.
The driveline comprises a 155kW turbocharged petrol engine, 7G-DCT twin-clutch automatic transmission and Benz’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
“The Concept GLA marks a new approach for us in the compact SUV segment – this is a sporty and more coupe-like evolution of this category of vehicle,” explained Mercedes’ sales and marketing chief, Dr Joachim Schmidt.
Looks are impressive – the ‘Benz GLA adopting a powerful version of the hallmark Mercedes grille and racy power bulges in the bonnet. Side mirrors are a new twist for Mercedes-Benz with dual supporting struts and there is a distinct waistline bulge blending into prominent curved wheelarches.
The rear is noticeably more ‘coupe’ than ‘SUV’ with nice curves however sill-guards reinforce the GLA’ off-road status. Wheels on the show car are 20-inch alloys with a five-spoke turbine design.
Inside is a new look for ‘Benz with glorious hand-stitched brown/grey leather and dark galvanized aluminium. Each of the four individual seats has an illuminated insert in the head-rest.
Internal air vents have a new twist – when the temperature is set at 22-degrees they’re illuminated white, below that they’re blue and when warmer they’re red.
And the luggage compartment includes a four-point securing harness as used in helicopters.
We’d be prepared to wager a fair bit of cash on a production version of the Mercedes-Benz GLA debuting within 12 months.
