The world of compact SUVs/ crossovers is mushrooming at an incredible pace and it seems that everyone wants a slice of pie. Almost all the mass market manufacturers now have at least one model in the segment and they are now slowly becoming volume generators for them. Not wanting to be left behind, even the luxury manufacturers have ventured into the segment and the newest entrant will be Mercedes-Benz with its GLA crossover which is scheduled to make its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.
The German automaker has posted official sketches of the production model on its Facebook page. The concept car was unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show and features many of the German automaker’s new technologies as well as design language. The production spec car has been spotted testing in Dubai on multiple occasions and now the sketches reveal what appears to be the final production version.
The production spec car has stuck most of the design cues from the concept vehicle and this includes the squat stance, chunky tyres and the overall design. In terms of engines, The GLA is expected to be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo charged petrol engine producing 209PS and 349Nm of torque. We also expect a diesel mill of the same capacity producing 170bhp. Power will be transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox and the (optional) 4matic four-wheel drive system.
The GLA is a part of the German automakers sub Rs 25 lakh range of front-wheel drive cars that it plans to introduce in the Indian market over the next two years. When launched it will compete with the BMW X1, and the Audi Q3.
Know more about the Mercedes-Benz GLA concept car
Source: Mercedes-Benz Facebook page