Mercedes-Benz will launch the GLA-Class compact SUV in India this month on 30th of September. The car was showcased at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo and is all set to hit the streets.
It is also being reported that dealers have already started accepting bookings for the GLA 220 CDI for a pre-launch booking amount of Rs. 1 lakh. The GLA will be sold in India in both, petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol GLA 200 CGI will be powered by a 1.6L, 4-cylinder, turbocharged, direct injection unit producing 156 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. 0-100 kmph stint can be achieved in 809 seconds and the SUV will have a top speed of 205 kmph. The diesel motor for the GLA 200 CDI will be the 2.1L, 4-cylinder, turbocharged unit producing 136 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque. 0-100 kmph stint can be achieved in 10 seconds and will have a top speed of 205 kmph. Both the petrol and diesel engines will be mated to a 7G-DCT automatic transmission.
The GLA-Class is based on the MFA (Mercedes Front wheel Architecture), used even on the A-Class hatchback. In terms of overall proportions, the GLA is larger than the A-Class and riders taller with additional body cladding, skid plates, roof rails etc. Interiors are expected to be a familiar territory if you have been inside the A-Class, however, expect the German marque to play with the colour scheme and the upholstery.
Once launched, the baby SUV from Mercedes will fight against the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3. To look at, the GLA-Class looks very dynamic and should appeal to the younger audience. Expected price should be in the range of Rs. 30-35 lakh.
Also, the possibility of an AMG variant landing on the Indian shores cannot be ruled out.
