2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA

The third-generation GLA makes an evolutionary leap from its predecessor and shares a platform with both the new CLA sedan and the redesigned GLB, which is a boxier, more traditional take on the small SUV. The GLA embraces a curvy, more European shape, with a roundish grille and round wheel arches situated between a wheelbase that’s 2.4 inches longer than the outgoing model. It has a low roof, it’s wider at the rear, and it has more muscular haunches than before, lending it a sportier look.

That additional wheelbase should help fit five passengers or four adults by increasing the rear legroom by 1.5 inches. The GLA embraces the pixelated dashboard of its CLA and GLB relations. Between the iconic circular vents is an available Superscreen wall of three screens, including a pair of 14-inch touchscreens for the driver and passenger. Optional equipment such as 64-way ambient lighting and Burmester 3D sound system with Dolby Atmos gives the youthful, entry-level Merc some luxurious bling.

Even bigger changes are in store under the hood, with a new turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a fully electric variant with an estimated range of 350 miles.

The powertrain options and other upgrades help the GLA compete in a crowded space of small luxury SUVs that includes the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque, Volvo XC40, Acura ADX, and a whole lot more.

Arriving in the second half of 2027, the 2028 GLA will be offered in full battery-electric 250+ and 350 4Matic variants first. Like the GLB, the mild-hybrid version will follow. Expect pricing to be announced in 2027, and expect it to be more than the 2026 GLA, which starts at $42,550.

The combustion variants will be badged the 2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 with front-wheel drive (FWD) and the GLA 250 with all-wheel drive (AWD).

This could get confusing: The base electric vehicle (EV) variant will be the 250+ with rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the 350 4Matic will be the all-wheel-drive (AWD) EV.

2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 and 250

The first-ever GLA hybrid uses a new 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Integrated into the transmission is an electric motor powered by a 48-volt battery with a usable capacity of 1.3 kWh. This mild-hybrid setup enables a bit more grunt off the line or, under lighter feet, it can provide all-electric power in low-speed city driving conditions. Above 60 mph, the engine disengages while coasting to conserve fuel. Regenerative braking occurs in all eight gears, as well. This adds up to a powertrain that should be both more efficient and more potent than the outgoing 221-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4.

2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA EV, aka 250+ and 350 4Matic

Both GLA electric models will be powered by an 85-kWh battery that feeds either one motor on the RWD 250+ or two motors on the AWD 350 4Matic. The motor on the 250+ generates 268 horsepower, while the dual-motor setup on the GLA 350 makes 349 hp, which is enough to go from zero-to-60 mph in 5.3 seconds, Mercedes estimates.

Range estimates are less precise, for now. Mercedes-Benz says the GLA 250+ will get over 400 miles of range on the notoriously generous European WLTP test cycle. Expect the EPA to rate it at about 350 miles, and the 350 4Matic to get over 300 miles. Like the related electric CLA and GLB, the GLA EV has a 2-speed automatic gearbox that shifts at high speeds for greater efficiency.

The GLA EV can also switch between 400- and 800-volt DC charging stations thanks to an onboard DC converter. At 800-volt stations, the GLA EV has a peak DC fast charging rate of 320 kW, which can recoup about 150 miles of range in 10 minutes during optimal charging conditions. At 400-volt stations, the GLA EV accepts up to 100 kW.

Powertrain