Dubai: Get ready, because a genuinely new Mercedes-Benz GLA is on its way to UAE showrooms later this year, and this one is not a mild refresh. Built on the same cutting-edge MMA platform underpinning the acclaimed new CLA, the third-generation GLA grows bigger, smarter and more electric-focused than the model it replaces. 

Here is everything Mercedes has revealed so far, broken down the way UAE buyers actually need it.

Bigger Dimensions and a Bolder New Look

The new GLA is noticeably larger than its predecessor, now measuring 4,565mm long, 1,873mm wide and riding on a 2,790mm wheelbase, gains that translate directly into a roomier cabin. Its styling also takes a sportier, more modern turn, distinguished by a bold new grille and a silhouette that visually gels far better than the old car's more upright stance.

Dimension	New GLA	Change vs Outgoing Model
Length	4,565 mm	+102 mm
Width	1,873 mm	+39 mm
Wheelbase	2,790 mm	+61 mm
Design highlights	Illuminated grille (608 LEDs on EVs), flush pop-out door handles, teardrop headlights	New for this generation

Electric Powertrains and Fast Charging

Mercedes calls the new GLA "electric-first," and the numbers back that up. Built on an 800-volt system, the electric lineup spans three variants with genuinely long WLTP range figures, and fast-charging is a real headline feature here too.

Variant	Power / Torque	WLTP Range	Battery
GLA 200 electric	225hp / 335Nm	394–447 km	58kWh LFP
GLA 250+ electric	272hp / 335Nm	577–657 km	85kWh NMC
GLA 350 4MATIC electric	354hp / 515Nm, 0-100 in 5.4s	555–643 km	85kWh NMC

A 320kW DC charger adds 270km of range in just 10 minutes, a genuine USP for buyers who don't want to plan their day around a charger.

A New Mild-Hybrid Petrol Option

Not ready to go fully electric? Mercedes has that covered too, with a freshly developed 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder paired to a 48V mild-hybrid system. A 30hp electric motor sits built directly into a new 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, letting the GLA coast on electric power alone at urban speeds and even at over 100km/h under light throttle.

Feature	Specification
Engine	1.5L turbo, 4-cylinder, 48V mild hybrid
Estimated power	163hp to 190hp
Electric motor assist	30hp, integrated into 8F-eDCT gearbox
48V battery	Up to 1.3kWh, lithium-ion
Energy recovery	Up to 25kW across all 8 gears
Drive layout	FWD (base) / 4MATIC AWD (flagship)

More Space and Everyday Practicality

Practicality gets a genuine boost too. Boot space on the electric GLA rises to 410 litres, up 70 litres over the old model, expanding to 1,400 litres with the seats folded, plus a 107-litre front frunk. Rear legroom grows by 38mm, and headroom improves both front and back, while the electric 4MATIC version can now tow up to two tonnes braked, a strong figure for an EV in this class.

Practicality Spec	Figure
Boot capacity (seats up)	410 litres
Boot capacity (seats folded)	1,400 litres
Frunk capacity	107 litres
Rear legroom gain	+38 mm
Max towing (electric 4MATIC)	2,000 kg braked

Tech-Rich Interior and Smart Safety

Inside, the GLA leans hard into software-defined luxury, with a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, an optional passenger screen, and an AI-powered MBUX voice assistant. The optional SKY CONTROL roof can switch between clear and opaque in milliseconds and even projects 172 glowing stars at night. On safety, eight cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors power a full MB.DRIVE assistance suite covering steering, braking, lane-keeping and parking.

Our Recommendation for UAE Buyers

As someone who tracks new arrivals closely, the electric GLA 250+ looks like the sweet spot for most UAE buyers, pairing a genuinely usable 577- 657 km range with strong everyday practicality and none of the compromises of the entry GLA 200. Families who value flexibility should watch for the mild-hybrid petrol variants, which offer a familiar ownership experience without range anxiety. Whichever you lean toward, this GLA is a far more serious contender than before. 

Exact UAE trims and pricing are still pending, so it's worth keeping an eye on official Mercedes-Benz UAE channels, much like enthusiasts are doing for other upcoming arrivals before committing to a booking.

Also Read: Hyundai IONIQ 5 or Kia EV6? The Electric Crossover Battle Every UAE Buyer Should Read