The Mercedes GLA Plug-in Hybrid Boosts Its Range

It’s time for a restyling of the Mercedes GLA Crossover, which improves its equipment, but more importantly, enhances the performance of its plug-in hybrid PHEV system.

The Mercedes GLA was introduced to appeal to a audience undecided between sedans and SUVs. By offering a model that is midway between the two, it managed to convince even the skeptic. While the first version featured a fairly rugged style, the new generation launched in 2020 has adopted a more mainstream look.

Like its predecessor, the Mercedes GLA “2” is entirely based on the Mercedes Classe A and shares the same mechanical components. What interests us most at Mobiwisy is the presence of a plug-in hybrid unit, here called GLA 250 e. It consists of a modest 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine, combined with a turbocharger, and a more powerful electric motor, now producing 109 hp. The combination of the two motors results in a combined power of 218 hp, unchanged from the pre-restyling version.

Greater Range

The truly new feature is the more robust battery, which now develops 11.5 kWh and allows the Mercedes GLA 250e to reach 62 to 70 km in all-electric mode, according to WLTP standards.

Better yet, this battery can be charged with an 11 kW AC unit (optional) and up to 22 kW in DC fast charging.

Visually, the changes are not obvious, with a reshaped hood, a new lighting signature, and a revised grille. The interior evolves further, especially in terms of equipment. Aside from the new steering wheel and the removal of the touchpad, the restyled Mercedes GLA features a double 12.5-inch digital display. Mercedes has improved the voice command system, claiming it is more efficient, and the GLA can finally connect to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay wirelessly.

These improvements are positive steps, but they are likely to be accompanied by a price increase…

Read also: Fast Charging: Mercedes’ first stations arrive in France at the end of 2023