Mercedes has set up its stall at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show with a raft of updates to the GLA crossover. The BMW X1 rivals receives design tweaks inside and out and improved standard equipment, with customer cars arriving in April.
The mid-life styling changes to the GLA include revised bumpers, fresh lightweight alloy wheels and a new Canyon Beige colour choice. In an effort to create a more SUV-like design, Mercedes has also raised the ride height by 30mm with the standard ‘off-road comfort suspension’ option. Lowered suspension is still available to order, however.
Mercedes has also worked on the car’s aerodynamic profile, with small revisions to external bodywork improving drag from 0.29cd to 0.28cd. Optional LED headlights replace the old bi-xenon units, while LED tail-lights also feature.
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The standard GLA’s interior has been revised, too. New seat upholstery options, chrome trim parts and control panel switches and redesigned instruments feature. The seven or eight-inch infotainment system remains unchanged, but extra optional kit is added in the form of a 360 degree birdseye view camera. Further kit additions include hands-free boot access, active brake assist and attention assist.
While European models receive new engine variants, UK powertrains remain unchanged. That means you get a choice of three turbocharged 2.0-litre petrols with power outputs ranging from 154bhp to 376bhp, and two 2.1-litre diesels offering 134bhp and 174bhp. Full UK pricing and specs for the 2017 GLA will be announced at a later date.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 revisions
The hot Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 gets specific upgrades of its own. These include restyled front and rear spoilers to further improve aerodynamics, while a new AMG radiator grille and new two-tone multi-spoke 20inch alloy wheel choices are added. Inside, a new man-made leather dashboard top features with contrasting red stiching, while extra AMG logos and a redesigned instrument cluster can also be found. The 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine’s 376bhp output remains the same, firing the crossover from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds.
A new limited-run Yellow Night Edition trim is available for the GLA 45, bringing a two-tone black and yellow exterior look, yellow interior highlights and a host of extra kit thrown in as standard. This includes the Aerodynamic Package, Night Pack and the Light and Sight Package, plus performance electric memory seats.
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