In the world of subcompact luxury crossover, the GLA is definitely one of the key players. Not only that it marks good sales numbers, but it also offers a level of quality that most rivals can’t match. That’s no wonder if we consider that the current generation debuted last year. Therefore, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will represent the third production year of the generation, which is a clear indicator that no bigger changes are about to happen. This will be a typical carryover model.
Therefore, you may count on familiar design characteristics and features. This crossover has a lot of great things to offer, starting from peppy engines, good fuel economy, a long list of standard equipment, an intuitive infotainment system etc. On the other hand, the main complaint goes to the small cargo area, while the interior quality could also be better.
As there are no significant changes to come, we presume that the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will hit the market sometime late in the year.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Design
Since we are talking about the third production year of the generation, it’s pretty much for sure that there will be no significant changes. You may count on a familiar design, which is based on the MFA2 platform, the same one that underpins the A-Class, B Class, GLB Class and other subcompact models. Therefore, you may count on a layout that includes a transversally mounted engine and front-wheel drive layout, though AWD models are available too. What’s also interesting is that base models come with a torsion beam, while higher trim levels come with multi-link rear suspension.
Visually, we might see things like new color options, but the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will largely remain the same. Count on the same styling, which follows the brand’s contemporary design language and has most things in common with the current-generation A-Class.
Interior
The interior design of this crossover is a mixed bag. Although it’s quite luxurious, it’s not what we would expect to see from a Mercedes-Benz. Everything looks nice and attractive, but there is still a fair amount of hard plastics and other low-rent materials. Rivals like Volvo XC40 look way better from the inside. Another thing we don’t like is sound insulation, as there is a lot of wind noise at higher speeds.
On the other hand, there is nothing to complain about regarding interior space. The front seats are comfortable, massive and supportive. The second row also offers enough space to accommodate adults, which isn’t always the case with models in this segment.
The cargo area isn’t that generous with space. There is just 15.4 cubic feet behind the second row, which is way lower compared to rivals like BMW X1. On the other hand, the total capacity of 50 cubic feet is about average for the segment.
Features
Since the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA is about to be a typical carryover model, we expect that the list of standard and available equipment should remain the same. Therefore, all models should come standard with things like dual-zone climate control, a 7-inch instrument display, a 7-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, voice recognition, HD Radio, four USB ports, and a six-speaker stereo. Among optional features, expect to find goodies like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touch screen, augmented reality navigation, satellite radio, wireless device charging, and a 12-speaker Burmester surround-sound stereo.
When it comes to safety, all models should come standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rearview camera etc. The list of optional safety features is much longer and includes adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, surround-view camera, head-up display, parking sensors, park assist, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, automatic lane change assist etc.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Engines
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will continue with three familiar engine options on the offer. Base models will carry on with a 2.0-liter turbo-four that puts out 221 horsepower. Besides good driving dynamics, this engine also provides pretty impressive fuel economy, which goes around 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
If you’re up for something peppier, there are two AMG models on offer. The first one is the AMG 35, which puts out 302 horsepower. The AMG 45 is even more capable and puts out 382 horsepower.
All engines come in pair with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which does a decent job too.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of the year, with a starting price of around 37.000 dollars.