With all the updates Mercedes-Benz has given its other models, the GLA crossover always felt like it was on the outside looking in. But while the updates were slow, the current gen model is still a strong seller for the company.

Mercedes-Benz has finally taken the veil off the 2028 GLA which not only gets the usual round of revisions inside and out, but it also becomes the latest model to embrace the EV lifestyle with a hybrid coming along too.

GLA’s EV conversion is a bold gamble

The 2028 GLA is the latest model to embrace a nearly pure electric powertrain lineup, and the EV versions come in two flavors. The GLA 250+ is the base model, and it produces 268 horsepower. The beefier GLA 350 4Matic comes with a dual-motor setup that not only gives it all-wheel drive but also a combined system output of 345 horsepower.

The EV versions are expected to draw the most attention in showrooms, but Benz has also learned from some of the mistakes it made with its first wave of EVs, and will also offer the GLA as a gas-powered hybrid. The hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that was developed for this model.

An eight-speed automatic is the lone transmission, but the company chose to keep final performance specs to itself, with the only hint of such a thing being a statement saying two different power outputs will be on hand.

Bigger and techier than ever

Move past the performance hardware, and you’ll notice the 2028 GLA is larger than its predecessor in nearly all dimensions with the 2.4-inch longer wheelbase helping to increase passenger room. The new front grille is perhaps our least favorite aspect of the CUV since it looks like it was designed as a mere afterthought. It’s a new design element for the company, and it does come with an illuminated surround piece. The new headlights are a nice touch and help give the GLA more attitude.

The taillights show off its width, and the company will have style options available for those who care about appearance, with AMG and Night Line options being confirmed for 2028. Meanwhile, the interior is dominated by screens, with the digital instrument cluster being joined by a large infotainment screen and a separate screen for the front passenger.

The latter is a nod to the recent trend of putting screens for both front passenger seats, and the company has said in the past the front passenger one will have a feature to keep it out of view of the driver when the vehicle is in motion.

When can I buy one?

Mercedes did not provide any pricing information for the 2028 model, but look for the pricing ladder to noticeably go up with the introduction of the two new EV models.

For comparison, the current generation model starts at $42,850 with this version of the GLA being exclusively powered by gasoline engines. This new version could maintain that $40,000 price point, but it remains to be seen how options will play a role in raising the price when it goes on sale next year.