Next Generation Mercedes GLA – One of the Brand's Key Premieres in 2026

Mercedes is preparing for a busy 2026: the next generation Mercedes GLA will be one of the brand's key premieres. The third-generation model will debut this year in hybrid and fully electric versions and will offer a significant increase in efficiency and technology compared to its predecessor, including an impressive range of up to approximately 640 km for the long-range electric version.

Despite retaining the overall design philosophy of previous generations, the new GLA will take a clearer position in the brand's lineup. This is due to the transition to the new MMA architecture, which separates it from the A-Class, which will continue to exist in its current form. As a result, the GLA will become the entry point into the new generation of Mercedes models and will likely be cheaper than the CLA, priced at around €52,000. Exclusive images provide a glimpse of what the new model might look like.

The transition to the new generation will be substantial: updates will affect powertrains, interior technologies, and driver assistance systems. Buyers of the electric version will receive not only competitive range and fast charging but also one of the most advanced technology suites in its class.
One of the key updates will be the switch to an 800-volt electric architecture, as well as the implementation of a new digital platform that turns the GLA into a fully "software-defined vehicle." Despite the technical complexity of the terms, this means more advanced dynamics and a more user-friendly experience.

The EV lineup will include three versions. The base model will be the GLA 250+ with an extended range, and above it will be the all-wheel-drive GLA 350. Both will receive an 85 kWh battery: the GLA 250+ will be equipped with a rear electric motor with a power of 262 hp, while the GLA 350 will have two motors with a total output of 348 hp.
A later version, the GLA 250, will feature a more compact 58 kWh battery, which will help lower the starting price of the model.

Although final specifications have not yet been confirmed, the GLA 250+ is expected to offer a range of approximately 640–675 km. This is slightly less than the CLA (up to 779 km), which can be attributed to the more "SUV-like" body shape and poorer aerodynamics.

Nevertheless, the new GLA will still outpace many competitors. For example, the BMW iX1 offers about 515 km, while the Audi Q4 e-tron provides approximately 560 km. In comparison, the current EQA based on the GLA delivers up to 555 km, which can drop to around 505 km in the AMG Line version.

For those who are not yet ready to switch to electric vehicles, Mercedes will offer a hybrid version. It will feature a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, familiar from the new CLA and GLB, combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and front or all-wheel drive. Power will range from 160 to 190 hp, with the maximum available in the 4Matic version.

High-performance versions from AMG are also expected. They will be built similarly to the previous GLA 35 and GLA 45, but now without gasoline engines — these will be powerful dual-motor electric vehicles. Diesel versions for the MMA platform are not planned.

In addition to powertrains, the GLA will receive an advanced electric architecture created as part of Mercedes' multi-billion dollar investments in software. The MMA platform is based on a supercomputer that supports large-scale "over-the-air" updates and enhances the interaction of all vehicle systems. This paves the way for the development of semi-autonomous driving.

The interior will feature a familiar screen architecture from the CLA and GLB: a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central display, as well as an optional passenger screen. The system will operate on a fully online MBUX platform with a new generation of AI-based voice control.
The cabin space will be slightly larger compared to the previous generation; however, significant increases are not expected due to the model's proximity in size and positioning to the GLB. In the electric versions, additional storage compartments may also appear in the front.