Mercedes-Benz is one of the most successful automakers with its premium luxury offerings. The German automaker is creating wonders with its front-wheel drive compact range and is going to introduce the new GLA crossover in the American market which is the third offering by the auto giant in the front wheel drive range. This is the first offering by Mercedes in the compact SUV segment and the concept GLA will be showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo. Mercedes hopes the GLA crossover will be more successful than the CLA as it satisfies the requirements of all types of customers.
The Mercedes GLA sports a similar front end profile like the A-Class while the rear end is completely new with elongated tail lights which makes the car look sportier. Overall, the crossover looks like an inflated A-Class with higher ground clearance. The interiors of the vehicle are identical to the A-class while the ergonomics are spot on. The crossover is going to be available with an all-wheel drive option as well. The GLA is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine which churns out a maximum power of 155 HP and a 2.0-litre turbocharged mill which churns out a maximum power of 208 HP.
The Mercedes GLA is also available with a 2.2-litre diesel engine which is available in two states of tune releasing maximum power of 135 HP and 168 HP. The automaker expects the new GLA crossover to break the record sales of the CLA which was launched earlier in September 2013. Mercedes hasn’t announced the price of the GLA yet but the crossover is expected to be priced more than the CLA. The GLA crossover will be available only with an all-wheel drive option initially but front-wheel drive will be offered later.
