The Mercedes GLA is expected to get a refresh in 2023
This is our first look at the updated version of the Mercedes GLA as it takes to the Nurburgring for testing. The second-generation GLA was only launched in 2019 so a full debut for the facelifted model won’t be likely until the second half of 2023.
It’ll once again sit as the smallest and cheapest SUV in the Mercedes lineup, going up against the new third-generation BMW X1, all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale and Audi Q3 in the premium crossover sector.
- All-electric Mercedes A-Class replacement could still be on
Mercedes is already testing facelift models of the A-Class alongside the CLA saloon and Shooting Brake, so it’s no surprise work is being done to revise the GLA sister model as well. Like the A-Class, we can see the exterior tweaks will be minimal for the GLA’s update.
At the front we can see the main grille will be slightly changed with new inserts, a new lower grille design and the headlights will also receive a different signature. It doesn’t look like much will change at the side, although we could see some new wheel options. Towards the rear, the light clusters will be take on minimal tweaks over the current set-up, and we can see with the lack of camouflage the rest of the car’s design will remain unchanged.
Inside the new GLA, we’ll again see a cabin design lifted from the A-Class. There won’t be any radical changes; it’ll likely reuse the same 10.25-inch dual screen infotainment screens from the current car rather than use the larger displays from the new C-Class. However, Mercedes will incorporate the latest MBUX software.
Sitting on the MFA2 platform, we don’t expect any major changes to the GLA’s powertrain lineup. The current engine range kicks off with a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 161bhp and goes all the way up to the range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S with a 415bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder taken from the A 45 S hot hatch. We could see a slight bump in power but not quite the 21bhp increase the facelifted first generation GLA 45 S received in 2015.
Diesel models will almost certainly be retained, although Mercedes engineers will probably be more focused on squeezing more all-electric range out of the PHEV models.
Mercedes has said it’s going to look towards the premium end of the market with its switch to electrification, which could make cars like the A-Class and GLA vulnerable. With this in mind, the facelifted GLA will certainly cost more than the current car’s £37,290 starting price.
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