5 Questions Answered About 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

All-new 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA will continue as Merc’s entry-level SUV
The new GLA is taller than outgoing model with more interior space
2.0-litre turbo will deliver 221 horsepower, AMG version will offer 302 hp

If you’ve lost track of how many Mercedes-Benz SUVs are available, the new 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA will at least serve as a starting point for figuring it all out. Unveiled yesterday in what was Mercedes-Benz’ first-ever all-digital reveal, the new GLA is redesigned from top to bottom.

What’s New About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA?

It has been completely redesigned and no longer looks like a slightly jacked hatchback. The previous GLA wasn’t “SUV-like” enough for many buyers, but Mercedes-Benz has fixed that problem.

The new 2021 GLA looks very similar to the new GLE or GLS models, albeit considerably smaller. That said, it’s taller than the previous GLA and its wheelbase has increased by 30 millimetres. That means more interior space for passengers, both in terms of rear legroom and headroom.

Powering the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That engine will be available in the GLA 250 and is taken out of the current A-Class. FWD will be standard with AWD optional.

Like in the A-Class, a Mercedes-AMG version will be available. The GLA 35 AMG will offer 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, enough to reach 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds.

The interior is typical new Mercedes-Benz and very well executed. It looks a lot more upscale and luxurious than the previous GLA and will feature all the usual Mercedes-Benz tech including MBUX.

How Much Will It Cost?

Pricing hasn’t been announced, but given that the Mercedes-Benz GLB will start at $43,990, we can expect something in the $40k to $42k range. The current GLA starts at $43,600, but we don’t think Mercedes-Benz will want to price the 2021 model so close to the GLB.

When Will It Be Released?

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA will arrive in Canada in summer 2020.

Who Will It Compete With?

There’s a slew of competitors awaiting the 2021 GLA. The redesigned Audi Q3 is one, the BMW X1 is another. There’s also the Volvo XC40, the Cadillac XT4, the Lexus NX, and the Buick Encore.

Should You Buy a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB?

What Do We Think About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA?

We think it looks a lot better than the previous GLA. We think the added interior space will do wonders for its popularity, although the all-new GLB may compete too closely with it in that regard. The GLA sold well despite not being very versatile or luxurious. This new GLA with a brand-new interior and more upscale looks should do very well.