Dealers of Mercedes-Benz India have started accepting bookings for the Mercedes GLA Class. The booking amount we are told is INR 1 lakh. Dealers we spoke to say that the crossover will launch in September. Initially, Mercedes will sell only the diesel variant of the GLA in its GLA 220 CDI specification.
The GLA 220 CDI is powered by the same 2,143 cc four-cylinder diesel engine found on the A and B Class. However, the engine is retuned to produce 167 hp between 3,400-4,000 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1,400-3,400 rpm. Drive is transmitted via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox to the front wheels, or all wheels in case of the 4MATIC variant.
Based on the MFA platform that underpins the A and B Class, the GLA is Merc's answer to the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Volvo V40 Cross Country. The GLA will initially be imported into the country as a CBU (Completely Built up Unit) from Mercedes's Rastatt plant in Germany.
The GLA had its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September last year, while an Indian showcase took place at the Auto Expo in February this year. The company may also launch the performance-oriented GLA 45 AMG, given that homologation is taking place for this variant in India.
