Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new electric GLA in Warsaw, marking the first time the compact SUV enters the market as a battery-electric model before its combustion-engine counterpart. The new lineup, scheduled to arrive in November, offers up to 657 kilometres of WLTP driving range and DC fast-charging speeds of up to 320 kilowatts.
The automaker is launching three battery-electric variants initially, while hybrid versions are expected to follow in early 2027. Prices begin at €48,599 for the entry-level GLA 200, making it Mercedes-Benz’s most affordable electric SUV.
Three Variants Built on 800-Volt Architecture
The new GLA is based on Mercedes-Benz’s 800-volt MMA platform, first introduced on the electric CLA and later adopted for the electric GLB.
The GLA 200 is equipped with a 58 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, while the GLA 250+ and GLA 350 4MATIC feature an 85 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack. The GLA 250+ offers a maximum WLTP driving range of up to 657 kilometres.
All three versions have an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h.
Mercedes-Benz said the larger battery models can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 22 minutes using compatible 800-volt DC chargers, with peak charging power reaching 320 kW. The company estimates that a 10-minute charging session can add up to 270 kilometres of WLTP driving range.
The entry-level GLA 200 supports DC charging at up to 200 kW and can recover between 145 and 165 kilometres of range in 10 minutes. Although its smaller battery allows a similar charging time from 10% to 80%, it stores less energy overall.
Mercedes-Benz also offers an optional DC converter that enables charging at conventional 400-volt fast-charging stations. Without this option, owners are limited to using compatible 800-volt chargers for DC charging. Standard AC charging is rated at 11 kW, while an optional 22 kW onboard charger is available.
A fourth variant equipped with a 71 kWh NMC battery is scheduled to join the lineup in early 2027.
Efficiency and Practicality
Mercedes-Benz said the electric GLA achieves energy consumption of around 15 kWh per 100 kilometres, helped by a drag coefficient of 0.27.
Depending on the version, curb weight ranges from 2,145 to 2,235 kilograms, while payload is rated at up to 480 kilograms.
The all-wheel-drive GLA 350 4MATIC offers a towing capacity of up to two tonnes, while rear-wheel-drive variants can tow up to 1.5 tonnes with a braked trailer.
The compact SUV measures 4.57 metres in length and features a 2.79-metre wheelbase, providing additional rear legroom and increased cargo capacity.
Boot space has grown to 410 litres, expanding to 1,400 litres with the rear seats folded. A 107-litre front trunk provides additional storage for charging cables and luggage.
Digital Cockpit and AI Features
Inside, the optional MBUX Superscreen combines a 10.25-inch driver display with two 14-inch screens for infotainment and the front passenger.
Mercedes-Benz has significantly reduced the number of physical controls, while integrating a new MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by generative artificial intelligence.
The assistant combines technologies from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini to support conversational interactions, while the navigation system uses Google Maps and Google’s Automotive AI Agent to locate charging stations, parking spaces and other destinations through natural language.
The vehicle also supports over-the-air software updates for its driver assistance systems.
Mercedes-Benz said MB.DRIVE ASSIST provides SAE Level 2 automated driving functions, while the Plus version adds automated lane changes on highways under suitable conditions.
Lower Carbon Footprint
According to Mercedes-Benz, the electric GLA reduces lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions by around 40% compared with the current combustion-engine model.
The company said the latest battery generation lowers carbon emissions per cell by approximately 30%, while around 40% of the aluminium used in the vehicle is produced using renewable electricity.
Mercedes-Benz also increased the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle, including carpets manufactured entirely from recycled Econyl yarn.
Pricing and Model Positioning
The GLA 200 starts at €48,599 and offers a WLTP driving range of up to 447 kilometres.
The GLA 250+ is priced €6,378 higher and adds approximately 210 kilometres of additional range while supporting the full 320 kW charging capability.
The range-topping GLA 350 4MATIC costs a further €3,130 above the GLA 250+, adding dual-motor all-wheel drive, a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.4 seconds and a two-tonne towing capacity, with only a slight reduction in driving range.
Mercedes-Benz also confirmed that the electric GLA shares its technical platform with the larger electric GLB, although the GLB offers additional interior space and an optional third row of seats at a higher purchase price.
