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Mercedes' Compact Crossover To Be Called GLA Class: Report

Kurt Ernst

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2 1,925 views May 1, 2012

Artist's rendering of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA Class

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What’s in a name, Shakespeare once pondered, as a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. In the case of a new compact crossover from Mercedes-Benz, there’s a lot riding on the name, which could have an impact on both global sales and future product lines.

This much is given: Mercedes-Benz is working on a compact crossover, based on the MFA A/B segment platform. It will be front-wheel-drive in layout (although AWD is a likely option), and will be sized on par with Range Rover’s Evoque, according to Britain’s Car Magazine.

The vehicle started off development as the BLK, before being given the name GLC. Possibly to avoid confusion with the former Mazda compact of the same name (which their marketing efforts would tell you stood for “Great Little Car”), Mercedes has now re-named its upcoming compact crossover to the GLA Class.

To compete against the Range Rover Evoque, expect the GLA to be a bit more sporting in appearance than the average crossover, although engines are likely to be pulled from current A and B class offerings. In other words, expect the GLA to look fast, not go fast (unless, of course, an AMG version is eventually offered).

The GLA will share the MFA platform with Mercedes’ upcoming CLA four-door coupe. Expect the CLA to hit the market first, as early as next spring, followed by the GLA by year end.

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Comments (2)

spwilson Posted: 5/1/2012 12:53pm PDT

This is sooo much better looking than the silly looking GLK/Tonka toy. This finally will give the X1 a run. Get making it!

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WizardsLore Posted: 5/1/2012 8:13pm PDT

it still looks like a 10 year old design. Toyota Rav4, Suzuki Vitara, and Subaru Forester. If this is the design language that will be used to tackle the evoque and 2015 Tiguan then there is no hope !

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