The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a subcompact luxury crossover that should go on sale later this year. This model looks attractive, compact, and it features a very modern and comfortable interior. It also deploys a powerful 221-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, with an option to add all-wheel drive (AWD).
However, the true excitement begins if you choose some of two available AMG variants. They pack strong engines, which deliver 302 horsepower in the GLA AMG 35 or 382 horses in the range-topping AMG GLA 45 model. Thanks to upgrades above, the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA has many rivals including the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Volvo XC40, and Cadillac XT4.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Facelift
Like the outgoing model, the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class looks fabulous and compact. It wears a recognized design language and similar face we saw on the A-Class sedan. The body lines are muscle, and it has front and rear skidplates, but they are made of plastic, which is purely cosmetic.
The design of this SUV will change a bit with AMG models. Both AMG versions offer a more sporty appearance package with a unique grille, wheels, and body kit. If this is still not enough for you, the manufacturer is also offering an AMG Night Package that brings more black accents and a prominent rear wing for better aerodynamics.
Cabin Changes
As the cheapest SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLA doesn’t feel like that inside. This model looks elegant, and it features a mixture of high-quality materials and hard plastics. There is also a pretty roomy interior that can comfortably fit four adults with a good amount of headroom and legroom. Unfortunately, cargo space behind the rear seats is pretty tight. So, if you’re seeking more cargo, the BMW X1 would be a better choice.
As standard, the GLA model comes with the newest MBUX infotainment system that’s paired with a 7-inch screen loaded with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This model also features great safety tech features such as a backup camera, automatic emergency braking, Attention Assist, blind-spot monitoring, vehicle exit warning, and crosswind assist.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Engine Specs
Under the hood, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA is available with three powertrain options. The base Mercedes-Benz AMG 250 is very efficient thanks to a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4. The engine produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. As you can see, it has plenty of power and is linked to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the 4Matic AWD system can be chosen optionally. As for the AMG models, the manufacturer offers two different models.
If you go for the AMG GLA 35, you’ll get with the same 2.0-liter engine 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Also, the 4Matic+ with rear-axle torque-vectoring comes standard. However, the other one is an AMG GLA 45 that produces 382 horses and 354 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes claims the AMG GLA 35 can run from 0-60 mph in a time of 5.1 seconds, while the AMG GLA 45 is quite a bit quicker, at just 4.3 seconds.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA Price, Release Date
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA will have a starting price of around $37,000 when it goes into dealerships. That’s the price for an entry-level GLA 250. Moreover, adding all-wheel drive will cost you about $2,000.
The more powerful GLA AMG 35 costs $48,000, while the top-of-the-line GLA AMG 45 is around $55,000. All mentioned models are expected to arrive later this year.