Mercedes-Benz is signaling an end to its current compact car generation in the U.S. with the reveal of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA. The model has undergone a significant makeover for this new model year including new dimensions, added passenger space, and a fresh list of safety and driver assist technology.
The exterior of the GLA follows closely with the aesthetics that are apparent in the current crop of SUVs and cars. Its new height adds 3.9 inches to the car, which allows for a more upright seating position that gives rear seat occupants additional legroom despite the fact that the model is now about half an inch shorter from nose to tail. Its track is 1.6 inches wider and the wheel arches are now three inches bigger.
Mercedes-Benz has put a standard four-cylinder engine under the GLA's hood. It achieves 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The car has a top speed of 130 mph.
Front wheel drive is still standard in the GLA and 4MATIC all-wheel drive is available. Models equipped with all-wheel drive get the Off-Road Engineering Package and LED Intelligent Light System standard.
The Merc is equipped with three drive modes: Eco, Comfort, and Sport.
Mercedes is touting the enhancements made to the car's outward visibility in the new model.
They're also promoting the new functionality of the rear seats and cargo space. Now, the rear seats can be adjusted up to 5.5 inches and the rear seat backrest can lean back more. The seat features a 40-20-40 split. Each section can fold down manually individually or as a group.
Inside the car's cabin, the driver information screen, instrument cluster, and infotainment screen are all housed within one panel with cutouts for each function. Two 7-inch screen displays are standard. Buyers can upgrade to two 10.25-inch displays.
The GLA features the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system, which is controlled by a touch pad that proved problematic during a recent test drive of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC. Owners can also use voice commands that activate using the prompt, "Hey Mercedes."
New for 2021, the GLA's Driver Assistance Package will including a number of fresh functionalities like exit warning and a reformulated active brake assist.
The GLA will be the first model in its class to get a car wash function, similar to what is in the Mercedes-Benz GLS. With one command, exterior mirrors are folded in and the side windows and sliding roof are closed. The car's rain sensing wiper functionality is suppressed, and the air conditioning automatically changes to air-recirculation mode. If fitted with a 360-degree camera, the new GLA will display the current camera view to assist when driving in/out of the car wash. All of these functions cease when the car reaches 12 mph and above.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA will go on sale in the U.S. in the summer.
- Long list of Mercedes-Benz models recalled for emergency services ... ›
- 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 blends performance with three rows of ... ›
- New 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S continues a 20-year tradition ... ›
- The starting price of the 2021 Mercedes GLA is $36,230 - AutomotiveMap ›
Photo courtesy of Genesis Motors
Photo courtesy of Cadillac
Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations
Photo courtesy of Volvo Car USA
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
Photo courtesy of Land Rover
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
Photo courtesy of Kia Motors
Photo courtesy of Porsche AG
Photo courtesy of GMC
Photo courtesy of Infiniti Motors
Photo courtesy of Audi AG
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America
Photo courtesy of MINI
Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Photo courtesy of BMW
Photo courtesy of Lincoln Motor Co.
Photo courtesy of Subaru of America Inc.
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.
Jeep Jamboree events have guides to assist drivers when they encounter tricky terrain.
Photo by Getty Images/Cavan Images RF
