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New Mercedes-Benz GLA Breaks Cover Globally with Three EV Powertrains and Illuminated Grille
Built on the new MMA platform, it features a fresh exterior design and a technology-packed interior. The GLA EV is available with 58kWh and 85kWh battery packs, offering ranges of up to 657 km.
Syed Wahab Ali
Updated Jul 30, 2026, 11:09 AM IST
Mercedes-Benz GLA Breaks Cover Globally with Three EV Powertrains and Illuminated Grille
Mercedes-Benz has officially taken the wraps off the third-generation GLA globally, marking a major milestone for the compact luxury SUV with the introduction of its first-ever all-electric version. Built on the brand's new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, the latest GLA arrives with a completely redesigned exterior, a more technology-focused cabin and multiple battery options offering a claimed driving range of up to 657 km (WLTP).
Key Highlights:
- Third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA revealed with an all-electric version for the first time
- Available with 58kWh and 85kWh battery packs, offering up to 657 km WLTP range
- New MMA platform, fresh SUV-inspired styling and tech-rich triple-screen cabin
- Mild-hybrid petrol version with optional AWD to join the global lineup in 2027
Alongside the EV, Mercedes-Benz has also confirmed that a mild-hybrid petrol version of the new GLA will join the global lineup in 2027.
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Variants and Powertrains
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Powertrain
Internationally, the Mercedes-Benz GLA EV is available in three variants - GLA 250, GLA 250+ and GLA 350.
The entry-level GLA 250 is equipped with a 58kWh LFP battery pack, delivering a claimed WLTP range of up to 447 km.
The GLA 250+ and GLA 350 use a larger 85kWh NMC battery pack, with the maximum claimed driving range reaching 657 km. Mercedes-Benz has also confirmed that a 71kWh NMC battery will be added to the lineup in early 2027.
The GLA EV comes with different motor configurations depending on the variant.
- GLA 250: Single rear-mounted electric motor producing 227bhp and 335Nm
- GLA 250+: Single rear-mounted motor with 275bhp and 335Nm
- GLA 350: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 358bhp and 515Nm
The flagship GLA 350 is the quickest version in the range, sprinting from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, while its top speed is rated at 210 km/h.
Fast Charging with 800-Volt Architecture
Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new GLA EV with 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing significantly faster charging.
Using a 320kW DC fast charger, the SUV can gain up to 270 km of driving range in just 10 minutes. AC charging support goes up to 22kW.
Petrol Mild-Hybrid Version Coming in 2027
Mercedes-Benz has also confirmed an internal combustion version of the third-generation GLA, which is scheduled to arrive globally in 2027.
The SUV will be powered by the company's new 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol 'M 252' engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It will be mated to an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (8F-eDCT) and will be offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.
Power and torque figures are yet to be announced.
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Exterior Design
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV Exterior Design
The new GLA adopts Mercedes-Benz's latest SUV design language, giving it a bolder and more premium appearance. The front end features a larger grille with different treatments for EV and petrol models. While the electric version gets illuminated horizontal LED elements, the ICE model uses chrome three-pointed star inserts. Both feature an illuminated grille surround.
New LED headlights with signature Mercedes star-shaped DRLs, redesigned bumpers and sporty black inserts further enhance the SUV's presence.
From the side, the GLA gets 18-inch to 20-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black wheel arch cladding and black lower body protection that give it a more rugged stance.
At the rear, wraparound LED tail lamps with star-shaped lighting signatures are connected by a full-width light bar, while the gloss-black bumper adds a sporty finish.
Compared to its predecessor, the new GLA is:
- 153 mm longer
- 39 mm wider
- 61 mm longer in wheelbase
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Interior Design
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Interior Design
Inside, the third-generation GLA gets a completely redesigned dashboard centred around Mercedes-Benz's latest MBUX Superscreen.
The optional setup includes:
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14-inch central touchscreen
- 14-inch passenger display
The SUV also gets a new three-spoke steering wheel with physical control buttons, while most other vehicle functions, including climate controls, are operated through the touchscreen. The cabin features an all-black theme with silver trim, while buyers can choose between fabric and leatherette upholstery depending on the variant.
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: Features
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA EV comes loaded with premium equipment, including:
- 16-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- 360-degree camera
- Transparent bonnet view (optional)
- Automatic parking assist
Mercedes-Benz GLA EV: India Launch Expectations
Mercedes-Benz currently sells the facelifted second-generation GLA in India with petrol and diesel engine options, with prices starting at Rs. 51.80 lakh (ex-showroom).
While the company has not confirmed an India launch timeline for the third-generation GLA, the all-electric version is expected to arrive at a considerably higher price whenever it is introduced in the country.
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