Come 2013 and Mercedes-Benz will launch its all new compact crossover to take on the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Mercedes-Benz GLA crossover will compliment the A-Class and B-Class and will be a niche offering.
The GLA is built on the MFA (Mercedes Front-Wheel Drive Architecture) platform which is also shared with the new A-Class (W176) hatchback and the luxury tourer B-Class (W246). The GLA will be dimensionally similar to the B-Class. The crossover will be 4440mm long, 1800mm wide, and 1500mm in height. The crossover will have a generous wheelbase of 2700mm and offer 500 litres of luggage capacity. In terms of design the crossover like draw a lot of design ques from the A-Class which is based on the new design language.
The GLA seems to be the final name which was initially code named BLK then changed to GLC. The GLA will be made in both the right hand and left hand drive variants.
The GLA will definitely made in India and will be locally produced at the Chakan plant. Mercedes-Benz India is working on a new strategy which involves an aggressive product launches along with dealership expansion.
With the new A-Class, B-Class and GLA the company can cater to a larger target audience.
Image Source: Carmagazine