GLA Concept World Premieres in Shanghai | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA | Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA

GLA Concept Exhibited in Shanghai

Mercedes-Benz will unveil a concept car for its new compact SUV, the "GLA Class," at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Text by OTSUKI Takuma (OPENERS)

Mercedes-Benz's Compact SUV

With a new front-wheel-drive platform, the vehicle has undergone a significant transformation, following theA Class" and the recently announced " B Class", and the new model lineup " CLA Class". Now, Mercedes-Benz is introducing a compact SUV as a concept car.

The "Concept GLA," with the message "Escape the Everyday," has dimensions of 4,383mm in length, 1,978mm in width, and 1,579mm in height. Excluding the exceptionally wide body, it can be considered a model targeting rivals such as theBMW "X1""(4,477mm length x 1,798mm width x 1,545mm height) andAudi "Q3""(4,385mm length x 1,830mm width x 1,615mm height).

The exterior exudes SUV-like robustness with front and rear underguards, fender arches bordered by molding, and a large rear spoiler. It rides on large 255/45R20 tires, which are custom-made and feature a tread pattern that seamlessly connects to the wheel spokes, a playful touch characteristic of a concept car.

The interior features bright brown leather with thick stitching. The dashboard is equipped with transparent polycarbonate, revealing the aluminum frame that supports the panels.

The air vents incorporate LEDs that change color: white at 22°C, blue below that temperature, and red above it.

Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA | Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA

The powertrain is a 2-liter, inline 4-cylinder turbo engine producing a maximum output of 211 hp, also used in the "A250 Sport." It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 7G-DCT, and features 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

The headlights are equipped with "Laser Beam Projectors." Similar to theParis Motor Show" revealed at the"Smart Forstars Concept", this technology can project images from the car's infotainment system onto the road ahead.

Beyond simply watching movies, it can also be used for functions like projecting navigation system directions onto the ground. Mercedes-Benz suggests this not only allows the driver to concentrate on driving without diverting their gaze, but also enhances safety by enabling other drivers to anticipate the vehicle's movements based on the projected information.

At the front of the roof rails, on both sides, are cameras and lights. These cameras can record driving footage in 3D. The cameras are also detachable and portable, allowing them to be used for sports activities, such as mounting them on a helmet while mountain biking.

While the "Concept GLA" is being presented at the Shanghai Motor Show, rumors suggest that a production version, the "GLA Class," could appear as early as the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.