Mercedes to Debut Tiny GLA CUV in Frankfurt

Mercedes-Benz will unveil its GLA compact cross/utility vehicle in September at the Frankfurt auto show, making it the smallest truck in the auto maker’s portfolio.

At 173.9 in. (441.7 cm.) long, 71 in. (180.3 cm.) wide and 58.8 in (149.4 cm). tall, the five-passenger GLA, paralleling the entry-level CLA sedan, joins a growing segment of compact luxury SUVs and CUVs, including the Buick Encore and BMW X1.

The GLA is powered by a 2.0L 4-cyl. engine with 208 hp and 258 lb.-ft. (349.8 Nm) of torque mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and is Mercedes’ first CUV with permanent all-wheel-drive.

Two models, the GLA250 and GLA250 4Matic, arrive as a ’15 model in fall 2014 and early 2015, respectively. Pricing will be announced at a later date.

“The GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling,” Joachim Schmidt, executive vice president-sales and marketing, says in a news release. “I am very confident that the GLA with its fascinating design and high everyday practicality will fill many new customers with enthusiasm for the Mercedes-Benz brand.”