Preview: 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA enters Small Lux Crossover Fight

2015 mercedes-benz gla

Here we have another reveal of a car to officially debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show next month.  Here we have the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA class small luxury crossover.  This one is aimed squarely at the the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3.  Think of the GLA as the taller all-wheel-drive cousin to the recently released CLA sedan-coupe.

The GLA is a compact little thing.  Its 173.9 in total length is about 2.5 inches shorter than the 2014 BMW X1.  However, this is 1.5 inches longer than the still to arrive in the US Audi Q3.  The GLA enjoys the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as the new CLA.  It makes a healthy 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.  And full torque comes in very early at 1,250 rpm.  This little crossover also ushers in the use of Mercedes new permanent 4MATIC system with fully variable torque distribution.

2015 mercedes gla interior dash

The GLA250 4MATIC uses a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and is good for a 6.4 second 0-60 MPH sprint as reported by Mercedes.  The GLA250 4MATIC will be available for sale in the US in the Fall of 2014.  And the front wheel drive only GLA250 will be available later in early 2015.  The pricing has not yet been announced.

Check out this TFLcar video 0-60 MPH test and review of the 2013 BMW X1 xDrive 35i:

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.