Mercedes-Benz has revealed the latest version of GLA, its compact SUV, with new additions and an upgraded suite of standard equipment.
At the core of these upgrades is the vehicle interior, which now includes a 7.0-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch multimedia display as standard. Together, both displays work to offer a holistic, high-tech, user experience while enhancing the vehicle’s open-plan architecture. A version of this system with two of the 10.25-inch displays is optionally available.
Leveraging the latest generation of MBUX, the GLA now offers its new display styles. A Class mode provides relevant driver information, Sporty offers a dynamic rev counter, and Discreet offers a minimal setup showing only the most essential content. MBUX functions such as Media, Phone, Vehicle are still available, can can be operated with the touchscreen or the finger pads located on the steering wheel. For further connectivity, the GLA now has an additional USB-C port, with increased charging power for all its USB ports.
The vehicle’s intelligent voice assistant, activated through the Mercedes me smartphone app, offers enhanced personalization capabilities by remembering the driver’s typical settings or routes. It can, likewise, suggest personalized infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions at appropriate moments throughout the journey. If the driver wishes to reject the assistant’s suggestions, they can do so with a ‘do not suggest now’ function, or delete the suggestion by selecting ‘do not suggest again’. Select actions can be triggered without the need to use the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice command, while the voice assistant can now also explain vehicle functions.
Another of the assistant’s key features is Tourguide, which leverages its capabilities to read out information about points of interest along the vehicle route. In Germany, the audio-based system responds to around 3,400 brown information signs along various highways.
An optional Burmester surround sound system offers Dolby Atmos, a spatial audio format that offers enhanced space and clarity, and can adapt to many playback environments. A similarly optional individualization package for Mercedes me connect services provides a series of in-vehicle mini-games. Designed for the touchscreens and steering wheel’s touch-control buttons, these games can be played alone or with fellow passengers. At launch, occupants will be able to play Sudoku, Shuffle Puck, Pairs, Match 3, and a quiz.
While detailing the range of powertrains available in the GLA model range, Mercedes-Benz confirmed that the PHEV version – the GLA 250 e – will benefit from performance and charging enhancements. Here, the electric motor’s power output has been increased to 80 kW, while the battery can be charged at up to 11 kW on AC and up to 22 kW on DC.
