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The GLA crossover production model has been unveiled by Mercedes-Benz at the Auto Expo 2014, after its global debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show (IAA) in 2013. This was part of the company’s surprise for the public here which was expecting a concept. The car shares its platform with the A-Class and the B-Class.
The GLA is built to compete with fellow German crossover SUVs like the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3. The reference European model displayed at the Expo is a compact SUV that combines dynamic styling with clear benefits for recreational use and marks the company’s new approach. All trim surfaces are galvanized in silver-shadow for material authenticity.
The production versions will probably house the 1.6-litre, 155bhp petrol engine or the 1.8-litre, 135bhp diesel engine and available in a front-wheel-drive setup. It also features the ultra-high performance 2.0-litre 360bhp AMG-spec engine and is called the GLA45 AMG which is obviously a rear-wheel-drive machine.
The BMW X1 and the Audi Q3 have been pretty successful in the SUV loving Indian market while Mercedes-Benz does not have a competitor in that segment – which makes us think that India will be getting the GLA very soon.
