Mercedes joins compact-SUV game with GLA

We’ve been watching the development of the idea behind the Mercedes-Benz GLA with interest, and now – ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show – the German company has decided to reveal some decent details and images of their compact SUV.

The compact SUV/CUV segment is the flavour of the decade, with manufacturers lining up to benefit from the growth in the market.

For their hat in the ring, Mercedes has looked to their A-Class platform, as well as some of it’s styling, which comes through strongly in the exterior of the GLA. It is, however, bigger than the A-Class, as well as longer and lower than the Range Rover Evoque. Closer in size to the Sportage/ix35, the GLA is likely to come up against the incoming Land Rover and Jeep crossovers.

According to the official press release, the 4Matic will be launched first, featuring a turbo two-litre engine. The in-line engine produces 155kW of power and 349Nm of torque. The only details available about the 4Matic drive system, available as an option on the GLA, is that it’s new, has DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation – essentialy hill descent control) and an off-road setting for the transmission system. This, a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, is then “optimised” for rougher surfaces. A front-wheel drive derivative is set to join the line-up later.

“With the compact GLA we add a fifth attractive SUV variant to the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio in this constantly growing segment. The GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. “So I am very confident that the GLA with its fascinating design and high everyday practicality will fill many new customers with enthusiasm for the Mercedes-Benz brand.”

 

Source: Autoblog