Mercedes-Benz Brampton
10 Coachworks Crescent, Brampton, Ontario, L6R 3Y2
If you’ve been waiting on real details about the next GLA instead of rumours, the wait is over. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the powertrain lineup, the cabin story, and the tech that separates this generation from the last one.
For Ontario shoppers cross-shopping compact luxury SUVs, this is the moment to start narrowing down electric versus hybrid, because both are now officially part of the GLA story.
The all-new GLA arrives with two distinct electrification paths: a fully electric lineup and a high-tech hybrid. Both are confirmed for the Canadian market, not speculative.
The electric side brings a new iconic grille design, the first in the Mercedes-Benz compact segment to wear it, plus an available illuminated grille panel. The hybrid keeps a traditional star grille with a chrome pattern and LED surround, so the two powertrains carry visibly different identities.
The body itself has grown. Overall length now sits at 4,565 mm and the wheelbase stretches to 2,790 mm, changes that ripple into cabin space discussed below.
The electric lineup splits into two roles: an efficient entry point and a quicker, grippier flagship. The hybrid is a separate choice entirely, built around a turbocharged four-cylinder rather than a battery-only drivetrain.
|
Model |
Powertrain |
|
GLA 250+ Electric |
85 kWh NMC battery, 800 V |
|
GLA 350 4MATIC Electric |
85 kWh NMC battery, 800 V |
|
GLA Hybrid |
1.5L turbo I4 + 30 hp electric motor, 48 V / 1.3 kWh battery |
The GLA 250+ Electric is the rear-wheel-drive entry point into the electric range, while the GLA 350 4MATIC Electric adds all-wheel drive and a meaningfully quicker sprint to 100 km/h. Both share the same 85-kWh NMC battery and 800-volt architecture, so the difference between them is about drivetrain and output, not battery size.
The hybrid takes a different approach. Its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder pairs with a 30-hp electric motor integrated directly into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, all run off a compact 48-volt, 1.3-kWh battery. In city driving, the system can run on electric power alone under certain conditions, and it recuperates energy in all eight gears.
Range and charging are the headline for the electric models. Up to 657 km of range (preliminary WLTP) covers weekend trips and highway runs without constant charging stops, and the 800-volt architecture recovers up to 270 km of range in as little as 10 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger, with a maximum charge rate of 320 kW.
A standard DC converter also lets these models charge at 400-volt stations, so charging network compatibility isn’t limited to 800-volt hardware.
For Ontario commuters, that combination means a full charge realistically spans several days of typical driving, with fast-charging confidence still there for longer trips out of the city.
The hybrid targets a different shopper: someone who wants electrified assistance and stronger efficiency without committing to a battery-only vehicle. Its electric motor and coasting capability at speeds over 100 km/h are aimed squarely at everyday driving, not headline range figures.
Inside, both powertrains share the same cabin upgrades. Front occupants gain 7 mm more legroom and 23 mm more headroom, while rear passengers see a bigger jump: 38 mm more legroom and 24 mm more headroom. A standard glass panoramic roof reinforces that sense of space. Cargo flexibility comes from 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats that create a nearly flat load floor, plus a frunk on the electric models for additional front storage.
On the technology side, the cabin centres on a 14-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, with an optional MBUX Superscreen that spans the dashboard across driver, centre, and passenger displays. An available Burmester 3D Surround Sound System runs through 16 speakers. The MBUX Virtual Assistant uses generative AI for multi-part conversations and short-term memory, and navigation is built on Google technology with access to Google Maps data for route and points-of-interest guidance.
Driver assistance comes standard through MB.DRIVE Standard, with MB.DRIVE ASSIST and MB.DRIVE ASSIST PLUS available as further options for shoppers who want expanded coverage. Exterior personalization runs from the standard grille treatments up through the AMG Line, AMG Line Plus with Night Package, and the Night Edition, so the sportier electric model can be dressed to match.
The 2028 GLA is coming to Canadian dealerships, bringing a genuine choice between all-electric and high-tech hybrid power in a single, redesigned SUV rather than a single electrified path. Full Canadian availability details and trim-specific configurations will be confirmed closer to launch.
The all-new GLA pairs its powertrain choice with a larger cabin, updated technology, and a new design identity that splits electric and hybrid models visually. Both paths are aimed at compact luxury SUV shoppers who want more range, more space, or both.
Contact Mercedes-Benz Brampton to join the list for Canadian availability updates, and start the conversation now about whether the electric or hybrid GLA best fits your driving habits.
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