Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA

“The Concept GLA marks  a NEW approach for us in the compact SUV segment – this is a sporty and more coupé-like evolution of this category of vehicle”, commented  Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President MERCEDES-BENZ Cars, Sales and Marketing .

“The Concept GLA is a compact SUV that combines its sporting spirit with the all-round qualities  of a tough, leisure-time companion. ‘Escape the everyday’  is the message that this car conveys to its driver. It also makes clear the further  potential of our compact vehicle architecture, which provides the basis for the A- and B-Class models that led the German market in their respective  segments in the first quarter of 2013.”

Clever use of SUV design  cues: the exterior design

Clear evidence of the innovative thinking  on the part of the designers  that has gone into this concept vehicle is provided by a number  of distinctive  features. These include the powerful hood with its powerdomes and a bold radiator grille with centrally positioned star.

The new trim surrounding the star merges elegantly into two horizontal bars. Also new are the “softcubes”: these are soft, raised pads that help to give definition to the radiator grille and are also found on the side sill panels and surrounding  the exhaust  tailpipes.