Mercedes has packed a great deal of new model information into the closing weeks of the year, but the company had one last card up its proverbial sleeve for 2019: new GLA models for the 2021 model year.
The performance-oriented GLA 35 receives top billing in the lineup. The variants all sport an inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine—in this case, one that is tuned to produce up to 302 horsepower—and an eight-speed dual clutch gearbox. Its chassis is stiffer than its brethren, its driving modes are unique, and its standard features list include beefier brakes, and an electronically adjustable suspension can be optioned.
The front-wheel GLA 250 and AWD 250 4MATIC get 221 horsepower out of the inline four. Modes for the entry-level luxury SUVs include ‘Sport’ and an off-road setting with hill assist. Like the 35, the GLA 250 and 250 4MATIC receive Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment.
Pricing is forthcoming, but deliveries are set to begin this summer.