Mercedes is currently writing a new chapter in its best-seller about compact cars. After reinventing the A-Class as a beautiful compact hatch and launching a four-door coupe unlike anything else it's ever done, the next logical step is to move into crossover territory. This segment is very pliable and allows for lots of innovation, which is why this car, the GLA-Class, will look like nothing else out there.
First things first, the platform, which is borrowed from the A-Class meaning front-wheel drive will be available. Mercedes has developed a special 4MATIC all-wheel drive system specifically for longitudinal engines, which will of course be paired up with efficient, turbocharged engines.
Those engines need to be able to cope with the most extreme weather on the planet before Mercedes gives the A-OK, which is why these two prototypes were spotted in Dubai. They're on a trailer, which means they were most likely testing the cars in the desert.
We'd be lying if we told you we're impressed with a 211 hp engine for such an expensive car, but the GLA is so beautiful we don't really care about anything other than those sexy lines. What lines? Surely, we can't see through that heavy black plastic camo. The GLA was already revealed in April as a concept, and Mercedes always makes its concepts 95% production ready.
Speaking of production, the real GLA will make its debut in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News