Mercedes-Benz unveils the second generation 2020 GLA

MANILA: After weeks of teasing the public, Mercedes-Benz finally revealed the all-new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA. This is the second generation GLA, with its predecessor first making its debut six years ago and selling out more than one million units. The entry of the compact GLA is anticipated to put pressure on smaller crossovers such as the Audi Q2 and the Ford Focus Active, as well as traditional SUVs such as the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

This second-generation version is borrowing styling cues from the likes of the A-Class, B-Class, and the CLA. As was revealed in the initial design rendering, the rear of the 2020 GLA has a resemblance to the A-Class hatchback. It now sports new wraparound taillights, a larger tailgate, a roof-mounted spoiler. The familiar square-shaped exhaust finishers can still be found on this version, along with the original black body cladding and short overhangs.

According to Mercedes, the all-new GLA is taller than its predecessor by over 10 cm (3.9 inches). Coupled with its shorter and wider build, the added height gives the vehicle a more bulbous appearance.

The vehicle is 173.6 inches (4,410 mm) long, 72.2 inches (1,834 mm) wide, ands stands 63.4 inches (1,611 mm) tall. The wheelbase has also been elongated by 1.1inches (30 mm), now making it 107.4 inches (2,729) long compared to its predecessor. These revised dimensions have given the vehicle new proportions, creating a much larger cabin with more room for passengers’ elbows, shoulders, and legs. Luggage space has also increased with the GLA now capable of carrying 435 liters, which is 14 liters more than its predecessor.

The interiors also received a major upgrade. The inside of the new GLA now features Mercedes’ new avante-garde style interiors. It also comes with aircraft-inspired air conditioning vents, a new MBUX infotainment and digital instrument display, a three-spoke steering wheel, new automatic climate control panel, and a new center console touchpad for infotainment display.

The digital display and MBUX touchscreen come in the standard 7-inch size. However, Mercedes also offers the option of a larger 10.25 inch screen for both systems. The MBUX also comes with intelligent voice control, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto support, plus various menus that control the onboard functions of the vehicle.

The GLA now carries a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. While it is smaller than the original 1.6 turbo, it does produce more horsepower and torque at 163 PS at 5,500 rpm — which is 41 times more than the first generation GLA — and 250 Nm at 1,620-4,000 rpm — 50 times more than its predecessor. It can go from 0 to 100 in 8.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h. The new 1.3-liter engine is also capable of cylinder deactivation which allows it to save fuel.

Mercedes will start accepting orders in Europe in early 2020.

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