New Mercedes-Benz GLA goes electric with up to 657km range

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the third-generation GLA, with its smallest SUV gaining fully electric powertrains for the first time and a claimed driving range of up to 657km.

The new model will launch internationally in November with three battery-electric variants, while electrified petrol models are due to follow in early 2027.

New Zealand specifications, pricing and availability have yet to be announced.

The GLA is underpinned by an 800-volt electrical architecture capable of DC fast charging at up to 320kW. Mercedes-Benz says the system can add up to 270km of WLTP driving range in 10 minutes under ideal conditions.

Three electric models will be available at launch.

The entry-level GLA 200 Electric features a 58kWh lithium iron phosphate battery producing 165kW.

Stepping up the range is the rear-wheel-drive GLA 250+ Electric, which develops 200kW and uses an 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery.

Topping the line-up is the dual-motor GLA 350 4Matic Electric, producing 260kW and accelerating from 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds. It shares the 85kWh battery and contributes to the model’s maximum WLTP driving range of 657km.

Mercedes-Benz says a fourth electric variant with a 71kWh battery will join the range in early 2027.

The new GLA is 20mm lower than its predecessor and rides on a wheelbase stretched by 61mm to 2790mm, increasing passenger accommodation and luggage space.

Boot capacity has increased by 70 litres to 410 litres, expanding to 1400 litres with the rear seats folded. Electric models also gain a 107-litre front storage compartment.

All-wheel-drive electric variants can tow up to 2000kg braked when fitted with the optional semi-electric towbar.

Inside, the GLA adopts Mercedes-Benz’s latest digital cockpit, headlined by an optional MBUX Superscreen spanning much of the dashboard. The system combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14-inch central touchscreen and an optional 14-inch passenger display.

Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX Virtual Assistant integrates ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini to provide conversational voice control, while Google Maps-based navigation can automatically plan charging stops on longer journeys.

The exterior adopts Mercedes-Benz’s latest electric vehicle styling, including an illuminated grille featuring 608 lighting elements, star-shaped daytime running lights and a full-width rear light bar. Wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches.

A new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology will be added to the range from early 2027. The hybrid pairs a 22kW electric motor with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and can operate on electric power alone at low urban speeds.