The third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA is expected to reach Australia in the first half of 2027, offering both battery electric and petrol-electric hybrid power options under one small SUV nameplate. This new model will bring the brand’s new MMA architecture to its key crossover entry point. Australian pricing and grades remain unconfirmed, but both powertrain types are expected to be available locally at a similar time.
New Powertrain Options
Mercedes-Benz has revealed three battery electric versions for a European market launch in November, with a new 48-volt petrol-electric hybrid range to follow on the continent from early 2027. The entry-level BEV, the GLA200 electric, pairs a 58kWh usable lithium iron phosphate battery with a 165kW/335Nm rear motor. German pricing starts at €48,599 ($A79,000) for this model.
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The GLA200 electric has a rated range of 394-447km WLTP and accepts 200kW DC peak charging, completing a 10-80 per cent charge in 20 minutes. The new GLA measures 4565mm long, 1873mm wide, and 1604mm high on a 2790mm wheelbase, with a 410-litre boot supplemented by a 107L frunk in BEV format.
Design and Features
A panoramic glass roof and LED headlights are standard globally, while the optional MBUX ‘Superscreen’ combines a 10.25-inch driver display with 14.0-inch centre and front-passenger screens. According to Mercedes-Benz GLA product manager Stefan Ebner, “It’s sportier and has really evolved – it’s gotten bigger compared to its predecessor in basically all dimensions.” The new GLA has a wider track and more muscular shoulders, giving it an athletic appearance.
The GLA250+ is rear-wheel drive, using an 85kWh usable nickel manganese cobalt pack and a 200kW/335Nm motor, lifting range to 577-657km (WLTP) and charging speeds to 320kW for 10-80 per cent in 22 minutes. The performance-oriented GLA350 4Matic retains the 85kWh pack and 200kW rear motor while adding an additional motor to the front axle for outputs of 260kW/515Nm.
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Hybrid Models and Trim Grades
Hybrid models will use a new 1.5-litre ‘M252’ turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic containing a 22kW electric motor and inverter. The hybrid battery measures 1.3kWh, enabling the GLA hybrid to move on electric power alone at low, urban-speed loads. Four trim grades will be available: Style, Progressive, AMG Line, and AMG Line Plus, with Progressive adding features like an illuminated grille outline and heated seats.
Adaptive dampers will be fitted to versions with 20-inch wheels to ensure consistent ride quality across the line-up. Australian specifications remain under consideration, but local precedent suggests that the local version will include a richer package than Europe’s base Style grade. The outgoing GLA standardises AMG Line, heated/memory front seats, and a 360-degree parking camera, while the new CLA’s Aussie spec includes a panoramic roof and illuminated grille.
