By The company’s entry-level crossover is about to receive a mid-cycle update. That will happen in the first half of 2023, so it is expected to see the new version as the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA. The test mule has been spotted on the road and it looks like the company is preparing subtle styling changes. Also, we could see some novelties on the inside, in terms of a revised dashboard. Finally, we could see some novelties under the hood, as rumors suggest the possible addition of a plug-in hybrid version.
Despite the changes, the overall layout will remain the same. You may count on a familiar overall layout, which has a lot of great things to offer. The GLA is smooth and comfortable but also comes with very capable powertrain options, which are also quite efficient. Furthermore, the infotainment system is intuitive, while both rows are pretty spacious and comfortable. On the other hand, the biggest complaints go to the small cargo area and below-average interior quality.
Image Source: Motor Authority
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA Design
The current generation has been around since 2019 and we are about to see a mid-cycle refresh. For that occasion, the company is preparing a lot of changes, starting from the aesthetical ones. The test mule has already been on the road for a while and judging by the camouflage, we may presume that the visual updates will be quite subtle. Of course, most changes will come to the front, where we expect to see a new grille, new fascia, new internal headlights design etc. The rear end could also come with some changes, particularly on headlights and similar areas.
On the other hand, we don’t expect to see mechanical changes. This aspect should remain largely unchanged, which isn’t an issue at all. Simply, the current model already offers a smooth and comfortable ride, while the handling is also pretty engaging, though not at the BMW X1 level.
Image Source: Motor Authority
Interior
The latest reports suggest a couple of interior updates as well. This particularly refers to the dashboard design, where we expect to see some revisions. Besides new shapes, we also expect to see nicer materials. Also, the company will probably install the latest MBUX infotainment system, so we might see a new screen as well.
On the other hand, the overall cabin layout will remain untouched. So, you may count on a crossover that offers a couple of quite spacious and comfortable rows of seats. Both rows accommodate adults with ease. The driving position is very good, while the front seats are massive and supportive.
The biggest complaint about this cabin goes to the cargo area, which is pretty modest. This refers to the space behind the second row, which goes around 15.4 cubic feet. On the other hand, the overall cargo space goes over 50 cubic feet, which is excellent for the class.
Features
As we are talking about a mid-cycle refresh, it’s also expected to see some changes in terms of standard and available equipment. We presume that some of the currently available features could become standard, even though the current model already stands pretty well in this aspect. It comes standard with goodies like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, voice recognition, HD Radio, four USB ports, a six-speaker stereo, dual-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry etc.
One of the things we expect to be replaced is the base touchscreen and instrument cluster, which are relatively small. We presume that the currently optional 10.25-inch units could become standard. Some other optional features could become standard as well. Those could be goodies like augmented reality navigation, satellite radio, wireless device charging, a 12-speaker Burmester surround-sound stereo, ambient interior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a universal garage door opener.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA Engines
Some sources also suggest that the PHEV version could finally arrive in North America. Currently, this version is available in Europe and it is based on Renault’s 1.3-liter turbo-four engine, which puts out around 158 horsepower. The engine comes in pair with a single electric motor that’s good for about 101 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, so the actual performance is pretty impressive.
The rest of the lineup should carry on in the same way. Base models will come with the standard version of a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Even this base engine makes the GLA pretty quick, as the 0-60 time goes under 7 seconds.
If you’re up for something peppier, there are two more versions of this engine, both with the AMG badge. The AMG 35 version puts out around 302 horsepower, while the AMG 45 is good for about 382 horsepower.
All engines come in pair with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Image Source: Auto Evolution
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA will hit the market sometime in the first half of 2023. The starting price should go around 38.000 dollars.
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