Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the third-generation GLA, transitioning the compact crossover onto a new architecture that prioritises battery-electric propulsion.
Measuring 4565mm long, 1873mm wide, and 1604mm tall, the 2026 model represents a significant dimensional increase over its predecessor, growing 155mm in length and 61mm in its wheelbase, which now spans 2790mm. This expanded footprint yields 410 litres of cargo capacity and introduces a 107-litre front storage trunk for electric variants.
The exterior design abandons the hatchback-oriented proportions of the outgoing model for a more substantial SUV silhouette. At the front, the fascia is dominated by the brand’s new illuminated grille and sharp LED lighting signatures. Along the flanks, flush-mounted door handles and a prominent shoulder line create a cleaner profile, though the squared-off taillights and full-width rear light bar unfortunately (for a premium brand) resemble the MG4 Urban.
At launch, the GLA will exclusively offer electric powertrains. The entry-level GLA 200 Electric utilises a 58kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery and a rear-mounted motor producing 165kW of power and 335Nm of torque, delivering a claimed 0-100km/h sprint in 8.1 seconds.
The mid-range GLA 250+ steps up to a 200kW rear motor and an 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, which extends the maximum WLTP driving range to an estimated 657km.
Sitting as the flagship (for now), the GLA 350 4MATIC Electric adds a front motor for all-wheel drive, generating a combined 260kW and 515Nm, dropping the 0-100km/h sprint time to 5.4 seconds. Both 85kWh models support 320kW DC fast charging.
Inside, the cabin leans heavily on the digital execution pioneered by the new CLA sedan. The dashboard is dominated by the Superscreen layout, integrating a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central display.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the electric GLA variants will enter initial European production by November 2026, with a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid combustion engine scheduled to join the global lineup in early 2027.
