Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the third-generation GLA with its first all-electric version, offering up to 657km of claimed range, 320kW fast charging, n…

EV Debut: Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the third-generation GLA, introducing an all-electric version for the first time. Built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), the electric SUV will be offered in GLA 250, GLA 250+ and GLA 350 variants. Buyers can choose between 58kWh and 85kWh battery packs, while a 71kWh battery option and mild-hybrid petrol versions will be introduced in 2027.

Range Options: The GLA 250 uses a 58kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery with a claimed WLTP range of up to 447km. The GLA 250+ and GLA 350 feature an 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery, delivering a claimed range of up to 657km. Mercedes-Benz says the EV supports DC fast charging of up to 320kW, adding up to 270km of range in 10 minutes. AC charging is rated at up to 22kW.

Performance Specs: The GLA 250 and GLA 250+ use a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 224hp and 335Nm, and 272hp and 335Nm, respectively. The GLA 350 gets a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 354hp and 515Nm. Mercedes-Benz claims it can accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 210kph.

Hybrid Next: Mercedes-Benz will introduce the third-generation GLA with a mild-hybrid petrol powertrain in international markets in 2027. It will use the company’s new 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. It will be available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while power and torque figures are yet to be revealed.

Fresh Design: The new GLA adopts Mercedes-Benz’s latest SUV design language. The electric version features an illuminated grille with horizontal LED elements, while the hybrid version gets chrome tristar detailing. Both models have illuminated grille surrounds, star-shaped LED daytime running lights, wraparound LED taillights linked by a full-width light bar, and alloy wheels ranging from 18 inches to 20 inches.

More Space: Compared with its predecessor, the new GLA is 153mm longer, 39mm wider and has a wheelbase extended by 61mm to 2,790mm. It measures 4,565mm in length, 1,873mm in width and 1,604mm in height. Boot capacity has increased to 410 litres, while the electric version also gets a 107-litre front storage compartment (frunk).

Screen Cabin: The third-generation GLA gets a redesigned cabin centred around Mercedes-Benz’s optional MBUX Superscreen. It combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment display and a 14-inch passenger display. The SUV also features a three-spoke steering wheel with physical controls, touchscreen-based climate controls, and fabric or leatherette upholstery depending on the variant.

Tech Pack: The GLA EV comes with a 16-speaker Burmester 3D sound system, panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera with an optional transparent bonnet view, and automatic parking assistance. It also features Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX Virtual Assistant with generative AI support, Google-based navigation and over-the-air software updates.

Leadership Quote: Explaining the technology behind the new model, Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, said, “With a broad portfolio of all-electric and high-tech electrified combustion variants, up to 657 kilometres of range and 270 kilometres recharged in just ten minutes, it redefines electric usability in its segment.”

India Plans: Mercedes-Benz currently sells the facelifted second-generation GLA in India only with internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains, with prices starting at ₹51.80 lakh (ex-showroom). The company has not confirmed an India launch for the third-generation GLA or its electric version. If introduced, the new GLA EV is expected to be positioned above the current model in the brand’s India portfolio.
