Mercedes' Electric Compact SUV
Mercedes-Benz Globalizes GLA Lineup with Electric and Hybrid Variants Featuring MBUX Superscreen and 800V Architecture
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Key Points
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The electric GLA introduces Mercedes’ iconic illuminated grille on a compact SUV for the first time, featuring 608 backlit light points and 158 micro LEDs, with the star optionally lit depending on market regulations.
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The GLA’s rear design receives full-width inverted U-shaped taillights with C-shaped light guides and, in AMG Line form, a large diffuser, contributing to a sportier stance alongside the lower ride height compared to the predecessor.
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Mercedes quotes a longer wheelbase of 109.8 inches (up about 2.4 inches) with added front/rear legroom and a near 0.9-inch rise in headroom thanks to a glass roof, expanding interior space for the new GLA.
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Beyond range, the GLA’s charging and powertrain details include the 800V architecture with up to 320 kW DC fast charging and two electric models (268 hp single-motor 250+ and 349 hp dual-motor 350 4MATIC) sharing an 85 kWh pack for up to 408 miles WLTP.
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The GLA lineup adds a 48-volt mild-hybrid option with a 1.3 kWh battery that allows electric-running at low speeds and coasting at higher speeds (over 62 mph), underscoring Mercedes’ software-driven approach to the compact SUV segment.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a fully redesigned GLA, its best-selling compact SUV, with an all-electric version boasting up to 408 miles of WLTP range and 320 kW fast charging. How-To Geek reports the new GLA rides on the same MMA platform as the upcoming CLA and GLB, marking a major shift toward software-driven, electrified luxury.
The electric GLA goes on sale in November, with a hybrid version following in 2027. The Auto Channel says U.S. dealers can expect the car in mid-to-late 2027, with the model year badged as 2028.
408-Mile Range and 320 kW Charging Power
The electric GLA runs on an 800-volt architecture. That means DC fast charging at up to 320 kW — enough to add roughly 270 km (about 168 miles) of range in just 10 minutes, according to HeadTopics US. Both electric models share an 85 kWh battery pack and a quoted WLTP range of up to 657 km (408 miles).
Two electric variants are on offer. The GLA 250+ uses a single motor making 268 hp. The GLA 350 4MATIC adds a second motor for a combined 349 hp. How-To Geek confirms both versions hit the same maximum WLTP range figure despite the power difference.
Illuminated Grille and Sportier Stance Define New Look
The electric GLA gets Mercedes' iconic illuminated grille for the first time on a compact SUV. It features 608 backlit light points and 158 micro LEDs. The central star can also light up, depending on local market rules. Out back, full-width inverted U-shaped taillights give the car a wider, more aggressive look.
The new GLA sits lower than its predecessor. AMG Line models add a large rear diffuser. HeadTopics US describes the result as a sportier, more muscular stance — a clear break from the rounder, softer shape of the outgoing model.
Bigger Cabin Built Around the MBUX Superscreen
Mercedes stretched the wheelbase to 109.8 inches — about 2.4 inches longer than before. That extra space translates into more front and rear legroom. Headroom also rises by nearly 0.9 inches, thanks to a standard glass roof. The cabin is noticeably roomier than the car it replaces.
The centerpiece inside is an optional MBUX Superscreen. It spans three displays: a 10.25-inch driver screen, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and a 14-inch passenger display. How-To Geek notes the system uses AI-enabled controls and Google Cloud navigation, pushing the GLA into full software-driven territory.
Mild-Hybrid Option and a Crowded U.S. Launch Window
Not every GLA will be fully electric. Mercedes also offers a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup with a 1.3 kWh battery. It lets the car run on electricity alone at low speeds and coast without the engine at highway speeds above 62 mph. HeadTopics US calls it a lighter, micro-mild approach rather than a full plug-in hybrid.
The new GLA arrives in the U.S. in late 2027 or 2028, according to The Auto Channel. It enters a crowded field of compact electric SUVs. Mercedes is betting that the GLA's combination of long range, ultra-fast charging, and premium tech will help it stand out in a segment it once dominated.
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