New Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV revealed

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the updated version of its new GLA SUV which is set to be the cheapest in the luxury brand’s line-up.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled what should be its cheapest SUV.

The German brand’s new GLA compact SUV will sit below an all-new mid-sized model, the GLB.

While the GLB will be more practical, with a boxy shape that prioritises interior space, the new GLA is sportier and more stylish.

The GLA is the brand’s smallest SUV.

The compact SUV is a big deal for Mercedes, the current GLA is brand’s third best selling model in Australia despite nearing the end of its model life.

Mercedes-Benz Australia expects the vehicle to land in local showrooms in the second half of next year.

Prices haven’t been announced but expect it start north of its current circa-$50,000 drive-away but below the $60,000-odd GLB.

The GLA is shorter but taller than the previous generation, which translates to a higher seating position for the driver. Mercedes has also managed to increase rear seat legroom and width thanks to a more generous wheelbase and wider track.

Rear seat passengers get more legroom but less head room.

Unfortunately front seat legroom and rear headroom have shrunk.

The cabin is dominated by Mercedes’ new dual-screen dash layout that combines two 10.25-inch displays. The first is used as a digital instrument display and the other controls the car’s infotainment and climate control functions.

Mercedes-Benz has placed an increased emphasis on tech adding a variety of driver aids.

Autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot warning, speed-sign recognition and an exit warning if the driver is opening the door and a passing car is too close.

The GLA scores the impressive looking dual-screen layout.

There are also some more advanced items including lane-change assist and evasive steering assist, which helps the driver avoid a crash and move back into their lane by providing the correct steering wheel angle.

More advanced speed-limit assist and route-based speed adjustments kick into action when the car approaches bends, roundabouts and leaves motorways.

There is even a car wash function that folds in mirrors, closes windows and stops auto wipers when going through a drive-through wash.

Mercedes will offer a number of versions with petrol or diesel engines in front- or all-wheel drive. Diesel engines are on the nose in Australia and are long odds to make it here.

The GLA is due to land in Australia in the third quarter of next year.

The base GLA200 comes with a small 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes 120kW/250Nm.

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed its AMG performance arm will work its magic on the SUV with a GLA 35 in the works.

The hot shot high-rider will use a feisty 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that makes 225kW/400Nm, is channelled to all wheels via an eight-speed auto.

Mercedes-Benz Australia will reveal full details of its local line-up closer to the car’s launch.