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Spy Shots Reveal a Sporty, Electrified GLA
Photographers recently caught a fully camouflaged prototype of the next-generation Mercedes-AMG GLA, and the clues point unmistakably to an electrified, performance-focused model. From aggressive wheels wrapped in performance rubber to large brake rotors and a reworked lower front intake for improved cooling, this GLA wears clear AMG signatures even under heavy disguise.
Design cues and EV hints
The prototype’s flat underbody and the absence of an exhaust finisher make its electric pedigree obvious. Lighting details borrow heavily from the CLA with EQ Technology, showing the brand’s growing star-pattern signature in both front and rear clusters. Exterior touches spotted on the test car include pop-out door handles, gloss-black pillars, substantial black cladding, satin-finish roof rails and a moonroof — small luxury notes that suit a premium compact crossover.
Platform and line-up: combustion, mild-hybrid and full-electric
Built alongside the CLA on Mercedes-Benz’s modular architecture, the 2027 GLA will arrive in multiple powertrain flavors. Expect:
- A conventionally powered GLA with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four (M252) developed in cooperation with Geely and produced by the Horse joint venture.
- A 48-volt mild-hybrid option to boost efficiency and responsiveness.
- Fully electric GLA models branded as GLA with EQ Technology, available in single-motor rear-wheel drive or twin-motor 4MATIC layouts.
The internal-combustion M252 engine is already used in the CLA, producing roughly 134–188 hp depending on tune, and pairs with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. A small electric assist could add up to 27 hp in mild-hybrid setups, and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive appears likely for higher-spec ICE versions.
Electric specs and performance
Early indications suggest the electric GLA will mirror the CLA with EQ Technology in output: around 268 hp in base electric guise and up to 349 hp when fitted with an additional motor. Torque figures for likely trims translate to approximately 335 Nm (250+) and 515 Nm (350 4MATIC), delivering brisk acceleration for a compact crossover.
Charging performance looks competitive: up to 22 kW AC charging and a very fast 320 kW DC rate for compatible stations. Battery capacity will likely be similar to the CLA’s 85-kWh pack, though the GLA’s taller, less aerodynamic body may reduce its WLTP range compared with the CLA’s quoted 792 km (492 mi) combined figure.
AMG on the horizon
History tells us AMG will not shy from performance variants. Think successors to the outgoing GLA 35 and GLA 45: heavier, higher-output models that emphasize sport-tuned suspension, wider tires and more aggressive cooling. The spy car’s larger brake rotors and revised front intake already hint at AMG-level thermal management preparations.
Highlights:
- Platform: Shared architecture with the CLA
- ICE option: 1.5-liter M252 turbo (Horse JV)
- Electric: Single- or dual-motor EQ models, ~268–349 hp
- Charging: Up to 22 kW AC / 320 kW DC
- Battery baseline: likely around 85 kWh
Market positioning and outlook
The 2027 GLA aims squarely at buyers seeking a premium compact crossover that can be efficient, electrified or outright sporty from the AMG lineup. It will compete with rivals in the luxury small-SUV segment by combining Mercedes’ latest EV tech with familiar AMG DNA. Expect official reveal and more technical specifics to arrive in the coming months as Mercedes prepares this model for dealership showrooms.
Whether you prioritize range, performance, or everyday practicality, the new GLA with EQ Technology looks set to offer a versatile set of choices—keeping Mercedes competitive as the compact luxury crossover market shifts rapidly toward electrification.
Source: autoevolution
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