Mercedes-Benz is all set to showcase the GLA compact crossover concept at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show starting from April 20th. The official images of the concept have already hit the interweb ahead of its debut. The German automaker will come up with the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz GLA production version at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show scheduled to be held in September this year with deliveries starting worldwide during the first half of 2014. The design elements being showcased on the GLA concept will be close to the actual production version of the compact crossover.
The Mercedes GLA crossover is actually based on the A-Class hatchback, boasting a stronger and muscular stance designed with similar styling elements seen on the hatchback. The roof rails, protection plates under the bumpers and wheel arch moldings with 20-inch alloy wheels contribute to the mature styling of the GLA crossover. The GLA crossover is a grown up A-Class measuring 4.38 metres long, 1.97 metres wide and 1.57 metres tall while the wheelbase remains the same at 2.69 metres.
The GLA concept carries over similar interior design elements from the A-Class with bespoke trim and materials and a futuristic instrument panel, which is likely to be toned down on the production version. In terms of the tech specs of the GLA crossover, it is expected to be updated with a different suspension setup carrying over the same 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine from the A250 that produces 208 HP of maximum power, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission equipped with Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA will be offered with both diesel and petrol engine options. A performance oriented AMG version is also expected powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing around 354 HP of power. The GLA crossover will compete head on with the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. We can expect Mercedes-Benz to introduce the GLA crossover in India in 2014, with local assembly taking place at the company’s Chakan factory.
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