A Crossover Character?

In 2011, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the"Concept A"for its world premiere in Shanghai. This year, following that, the compact SUV "Concept GLA," which uses the same platform as the third-generation

"A-Class"

born from that concept car, took center stage at the Mercedes-Benz booth at Auto Shanghai.



The Concept GLA, seen in person, was a model with a flowing style that gave the impression of a crossover, with a character somewhere between a wagon and an SUV, rather than purely an SUV.

As is clear from examples like the current"CLA-Class", it is certain that the basic silhouette of the Concept GLA's style will be carried over to the production model.

The GLA, which will be 167mm shorter in length than the current most compact Mercedes-Benz SUV, the"GLK-Class", is expected to receive high acclaim for its marketability in markets worldwide, not just in Japan.

The power unit installed in the Concept GLA is a 1,991cc inline-4 turbo engine producing a maximum output of 211ps. This system is combined with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission and 4MATIC.

Naturally, the production model is expected to feature a lineup shared with the A-Class and CLA-Class. Many fans are likely anticipating the "45 AMG" for the high-end of the lineup.