Refreshed models of the German brand received a corrected appearance, a fresh version of multimedia and upgraded technology.
Mercedes-Benz refreshed the A-Class and B-Class in October last year, the refreshed CLA sedan and wagon were introduced in January 2023, and now it's time for the GLA and GLB crossovers to go about the same way . Recall that the “elevated” relative of the A-Class appeared in 2013 and changed generations in 2019, the production of the “big brother” of the B-Class also started in the same year. Today, the German manufacturer spoke in more detail about the changes to the Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB, as well as their AMG versions.
Pictured: Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 e AMG Line 1/3 Pictured: Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 e AMG Line 2/3 Pictured: Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 e AMG Line 3/3
Adjustments in the exterior of the crossovers are visible on the redesigned front bumper: the air intakes integrated into the lower part are differently designed, as well as on the slightly modified radiator grille. The shape of the head optics and taillights of both models remained the same, but the LED graphics were slightly tweaked (LED optics are now in the «base»). The updated GLA and GLB now have a new color – metallic blue, in addition, the crossovers received rims in four new designs in sizes of 18 and 20 inches (17-inch “rollers” are the base ones).
In the photo : Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic 1/3 Pictured: Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic 2/3 Pictured: Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic 3/3
Refreshed Mercedes GLA and GLB received the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as an improved voice assistant that can remember the driver's preferences. The basic versions have a 7-inch virtual instrument panel and a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen. For richer options, a dual 10.25-inch display option is available.
In the cabin, an additional illuminated USB-C port has appeared: it charges devices faster. More models received a modern two-spoke heated steering wheel and 10-color interior lighting. The basic equipment includes a rear-view camera, and an optional 360-degree camera system is available. For the first time, the GLA and GLB are available with trailer assist.
Pictured: Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC AMG Line 1/3 Pictured: Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC AMG Line 2/3 Pictured: Mercedes- Benz GLB 250 4MATIC AMG Line 3/3
The updated Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB have front-wheel drive versions of the GLA 180/GLB 180 and GLA 200/GLB 200, which are equipped with a 1.3-liter gasoline turbo engine with a capacity of 136 and 163 hp. respectively. Under the hood of the all-wheel drive versions of the GLA 220/GLB 220 and GLA 250/GLB 250 is a 2.0-liter engine with a return of 190 and 224 hp. respectively. All of the listed motors are part of a mild hybrid setup and work in tandem with a 48-volt starter-alternator, which gives a 14-horsepower increase at the start.
Pictured: Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic 1/3 photo: Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic 2/3 In the photo: Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic 3/3
Two-liter diesel engines did not receive an «electric addition». The GLA 180 d/GLB 180 d variants are only offered with front-wheel drive and 116 hp, while the 150-hp versions of the GLA 200 d/GLB 200 d are available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The GLA 220 d/GLB 220 d versions are only available with all-wheel drive and 190 hp diesel.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA crossover also has a plug-in hybrid modification of the GLA 250 e, which was equipped with a different power plant, while its total output remained the same — 218 hp. The 1.3-liter petrol turbo engine now produces 163 hp. (for the pre-reform version — 160 hp). In addition, the power of the electric motor has grown from 102 to 109 hp. The maximum range when driving on electric power alone for a hybrid crossover is 70 km.
For «charged» versions of Mercedes -AMG GLA and GLB only one version — 35 4Matic. “Hot” all-wheel drive crossovers received a 306-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, which also works in tandem with a 48-volt “electric weight”. An eight-speed DCT automatic transmission is offered as a pair. The GLA will take 5.2 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100, while the GLB will take 5.5 seconds to complete this exercise.
The refreshed Mercedes GLA and GLB will be on sale later in current year. The company has not yet named the cost of new products, but it is expected that they will be slightly more expensive compared to pre-reform crossovers.