2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA espied again, looks almost ready to rumble

Judging by yet another portion of spy photos, Mercedes-Benz is almost ready to launch the second generation of its GLA crossover/SUV into production.

While related to the latest A-Class, the newcomer is still quite a different vehicle. It sports its own headlight design, new rear doors and pillars, and a shorter hood that rises higher than that of the A-Class. Despite all this, the 2020 GLA is 4,420 millimeters (14.5 feet) long, making it comparable to the hatchback in terms of dimensions.

Powering the series is a whole range of gasoline and diesel engines. The cheapest option comes in the shape of a 1.5-liter diesel available in two versions: 95 hp and 116 hp (71 / 87 kW, respectively). The GLA 45 will ship with 387 hp (289 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at its disposal, while the range-topping GLA 45 S will get 421 hp (314 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). The latter two trims will be able to sprint 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) in around four seconds.

A hybrid-powered GLA should also grace the market with its presence in 2020, most likely featuring an ‘electric AWD’ system (FWD, plus a dedicated electric motor mounted on the rear axle).

The launch is scheduled for next year, but no specific dates exist yet.