Mercedes-Benz GLA250 and GLA45 AMG Concept

Published on November 21, 2013 in Los Angeles by Danny Geraghty

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class made its North American premiere yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The entry-level compact SUV is set to go head-to-head with other vehicles in the segment such as the BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque.

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Under the hood we find a turbocharged, 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine which makes 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It's mated with a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. The car will do 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds.

GLA 45 AMG

For performance nuts, we have the GLA45 AMG concept. This version of the CLA-based SUV makes 360 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque with the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive will be standard for this model.

The compact crossover segment is a fast-growing one and automakers are seeking to cash in with new unveils from Lincoln, Jaguar and Porsche all at the show.