GLA-Class SUV

Segment
SUV

Mercedes has recently revealed a slew of new sub-compact models including the A-Class, CLA, and GLB, all of which ride on the company's MFA2 (Modular Front Architecture) platform. Of the three, the A-Class is new to the US and the GLB is an entirely new model, but we are surprised Mercedes started with two sedans rather than a replacement for the GLA which is rumored to arrive next month at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. And this latest speculative rendering gives us a different idea at what it might look like.

Where earlier renderings (and the current version) of the GLA look something like a lifted version of the A-Class hatchback (which isn't sold in the US), rendering artist Kleber Silva has envisioned the next-gen subcompact crossover as a smaller version of the mid-size GLE.

The idea looks pretty attractive, though not quite as aggressive as the A-Class-based rendering. Mercedes will want to differentiate the GLA from the recently-revealed GLB, which features the surprise inclusion of an optional third-row (a rarity in this segment). Making the GLA look like the more premium GLE could be an interesting way to differentiate it from its platform siblings.

The GLA is expected arrive first in 250 guise with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing between 189 and 221 horsepower. AMG is also expected to produce faster, more powerful GLA35 and GLA45 models, bringing the output to 302 hp and 382 hp respectively.

No matter what design route Mercedes takes with the next GLA, the interior is expected to remain close to the cabins found on the A-Class, CLA, and GLB, meaning it will be a strong competitor to subcompact luxury SUVs like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Volvo XC40.