Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz GLA Caught Testing at the Nurburgring in a Spy Video
Giancarlo Perlas July 8, 2018The next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA was recently caught on cam while it was being tested at the Nurburgring track in Nurburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.
The spy video shows the prototype of the upcoming GLA in a heavy zebra camouflage. Therefore, we can only make out some of the crossover’s key design features based on its shape, bulges, and components peeking out from the wrap.
Architecture
Based on the video, the next-gen GLA almost looks a lot like the brand-new GLB. The only exceptions are that the GLB has a longer wheelbase than the GLA and the former also has a higher nose. That’s actually expected because the two will be riding on the MFA2 platform of Mercedes.
Interior
Since the GLA is the bulked up sibling of the A-Class, the crossover is believed to share the same level of detailing in its interior with the hatchback. With that, the new MBUX infotainment system will most probably find its way to the GLA. That includes a pair of 10.25-inch widescreen displays in its cockpit.
Noticeable in the spy video is a roll cage inside the GLA, too. However, we think that it is only one of the temporary fittings of the prototype, which is used for testing purposes.
Engine and Performance
Likewise, the next GLA will have the same engine options as the new A-Class. If that comes into fruition, the standard models of the new GLA will have a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 161 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.5-liter turbodiesel inline-four engine with 114 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. The GLA engines will likely be partnered to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
As confirmed by AMG CEO Tobias Moers, the high-performance version of the GLA will possibly copy the format of the A-Class. So, look forward to the AMG GLA 35 and AMG GLA 45 versions in the future. The AMG GLA 35’s 2.0-liter biturbo inline-four engine might get more than 300 hp while the AMG GLA 45 might push the numbers further than 400 hp.
