Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the all-new GLA, giving its best-selling compact SUV a comprehensive overhaul that brings fresh styling, longer electric range and a cabin packed with AI-powered technology.
Leading the charge is an all-electric version capable of travelling up to 408 miles on a single charge (WLTP), while the company says its new 800V electrical architecture can add as much as 168 miles of range in just 10 minutes when connected to a suitably powerful DC fast charger. Hybrid petrol variants featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology will follow in early 2027.
Visually, the new GLA adopts a more athletic stance than its predecessor. It’s 20mm lower, rides on a longer wheelbase and is the first Mercedes-Benz compact SUV to feature an illuminated grille. Depending on specification, the grille features animated lighting effects made up of hundreds of illuminated elements, while redesigned LED lighting gives the SUV a more distinctive look at both the front and rear.
Inside, Mercedes has focused on increasing space – very welcome, given how cramped the back of the old GLA series was – and improving day-to-day usability. The longer wheelbase creates more legroom for front and rear passengers, while boot capacity grows to 410 litres. Electric versions also gain a 107-litre front trunk, and four-wheel-drive models can tow up to two tonnes.
The biggest transformation, however, is the dashboard. An enormous new, floating MBUX Superscreen stretches across the entire cabin, combining a digital instrument cluster with up to two 14-inch displays. Rather optimistically, Mercedes says the system is designed to ‘reduce distractions’ while offering more personalised controls, smartphone-style app organisation and access to more than 40 entertainment apps, including YouTube and Disney+. We’ll take that particular claim with a pinch of salt for now…
Artificial intelligence also takes centre stage, obviously. The latest MBUX Virtual Assistant combines technologies including ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Bing to deliver more natural conversations, answer complex questions, remember previous requests and even provide live navigation information such as charging availability and parking spaces.
Navigation itself is powered by Google Maps, with Mercedes’ Electric Intelligence software automatically planning charging stops on longer journeys.
At launch, buyers can choose between three electric models, topped by the GLA 350 4MATIC, which delivers 260kW and completes the 0-62mph sprint in 5.4 seconds. Two additional battery options are available across the range, with another variant arriving in 2027.
Mercedes has also upgraded the SUV’s driver assistance systems, introducing enhanced motorway lane-changing assistance, improved automated parking and over-the-air software updates. Combined with a quieter cabin, upgraded Burmester 3D audio system and a panoramic roof that can optionally transform into an illuminated “starry sky”, the new GLA aims to deliver a more premium experience while retaining the practicality that has helped make it Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling compact model.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA is due to launch in Europe in November 2026, UK pricing tbc here…
