In 2021, Mercedes-Benz redesigned the GLA-Class, separating it from its one-time platform-mate, the INFINITI QX30, and giving it a stronger design. With this new look entering just its second model year, we expect the 2022 GLA-Class to be a carryover model.
The new-generation GLA-Class is 1 inch wider and 3.6 inches taller than the last-generation model. It boasts a more upright, SUV-like design, but it maintains a youthful look to help draw younger buyers to the brand. This design includes sleek headlights, a single-bar grille, large front air vents, large taillights, dual-exhaust headlights, and more. We expect this design the remain the same in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.
Inside, the new-generation GLA-Class boasts a sharp and sporty design that includes circular air vents, metallic accents, a push-button shifter, a dash-top infotainment screen, a swoopy dash, textured faux carbon fiber, and plenty of soft-touch materials. This youthful design is likely to remain the same in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.
The current GLA-Class comes well-equipped with standard LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch wheels, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power liftgate, keyless entry and ignition, and side-by-side 7.0-inch screens for the instrument cluster and the infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, natural voice recognition, and more. We expect these standard features to remain the same in the 2022 GLA-Class.
The current GLA-Class comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This power flows through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and out to the front wheels or all four wheels. Buyers seeking a little pep can move up to the AMG GLA35, which pumps the 2.0-liter to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque through an AMG-tuned eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Moving up to the AMG GLA45 adds a handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque paired to an AMG-tuned eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both AMG models feature standard AMG-tuned all-wheel drive. We anticipate the 2022 GLA-Class wil continue with the same powertrain options.
Neither the IIHS nor the NHTSA has tested the GLA-Class for safety, but it does come standard with automatic emergency braking. There’s also the Driver Assistance package, which adds a more sophisticated emergency braking system with evasive steering, active lane control, blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic rear emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. We expect these features to remain the same in the 2022 GLA-Class.
