Mercedes-Benz has Revealed a New Concept GLA-Class Vehicle

BARRINGTON, Ill. - April 24, 2013 - PRLog -- In a bid to compete with other subcompact SUVs on the market from other premium manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz is developing the GLA-Class. The new vehicle, which was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show recently, will probably be available at Chicago area Mercedes-Benz dealers (http://www.motorwerksmercedes.com/mercedes-benz-dealers-chicago.htm) like Motor Werks of Barrington sometime next year. The vehicle that was revealed in Shanghai is technically a concept, but it will undoubtedly bear a strong resemblance to the final production vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class concept is a striking vehicle that should appeal to a young audience due to its affordability, practicality, and style. It’s suited both for an active lifestyle due to the flexible cargo space provided by the hatchback, and for urban commuting due to its small size. The GLA-Class will be based on the MFA platform, which is also used in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, B-Class, and CLA-Class vehicles.

The concept car is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for 208 hp. Power is sent to the wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift control. The concept GLA-Class uses the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® all-wheel drive system, and the production version will likely come with an option of that system or front-wheel drive.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, executive vice president of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales, and Marketing, said, “[the concept] makes clear the further potential of our compact vehicle architecture, which provides the basis for the A- and B-Class models that led the German market in their respective segments in the first quarter of 2013.”

The concept showed off styling that includes what Mercedes-Benz called a “powerful bonnet with its powerdomes”, a slightly rising C-pillar, concave side panels, and what is described as “a unique interplay of lines that adds to the sense of elegant dynamism.” The GLA-Class concept also has frameless door windows for a clean, coupe-like look.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class will likely be priced around $45,000. Interested drivers should contact Motor Werks of Barrington to find out more about the current and future Mercedes-Benz offerings now. Motor Werks of Barrington is located at 1475 S Barrington Rd (http://www.motorwerksmercedes.com/dealership/directions.htm) in Barrington, IL.