The new Mercedes-Benz GLA has been revealed, with the second-generation entry point to the German firm’s crossover range now including a Mercedes-AMG GLA35 variant, too.

At 1 611 mm, the new model stands some 100 mm taller than the original, which Mercedes-Benz says translates to both a loftier seating position (some 140 mm higher than in the A-Class, in fact) and more headroom. The firm claims legroom in the rear is also “much more generous” than before, despite the GLA measuring 15 mm shorter nose to tail (it’s now 4 410 mm long).

The wheelbase, meanwhile, has grown some 30 mm to 2 729 mm and the claimed capacity of the luggage compartment (with its height-adjustable load floor) has increased by 14 units to 435 litres. Ground clearance has been hiked by nine units to 143 mm (there are MacPherson struts up front and a four-link axle at the rear), with wheels measuring 17 to 20 inches will be available.

Inside, much is shared with other members of Benz’s now-eight-strong compact car family, with a free-standing display unit offered in three familiar variants: two seven-inch displays; one seven- and one 10,25-inch display; and the widescreen version, with two 10,25-inch screens. The brand’s MBUX infotainment system is furthermore included as standard.

And engines? Well, the Mercedes has mentioned just two derivatives thus far. The GLA200 will use a 120 kW/250 N.m turbocharged 1,3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission), while the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 will employ the firm’s turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder unit.

Thanks to 225 kW and 400 N.m directed to all four wheels via its eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the GLA35 will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 5,1 seconds, before topping out at an electronically limited 250 km/h.

”The launch of the new GLA marks the culmination of a complete renewal of our family of compact cars,” said Britta Seeger, member of the board of management of Daimler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars marketing & sales.

“The high demand for our SUVs shows that we can offer the right model for all of our customers here. Reflecting customer demand, these include two off-road models, the GLB and GLA, which complement each other perfectly: the GLB is the most functional and most spacious representative of our compact class family, while the new GLA is positioned as its sporty brother and as a lifestyle-oriented SUV.”

Original article from Car