Mercedes-Benz Unveils 2028 GLA with 800V Architecture and 400-Mile Range
The third-generation compact SUV debuts on the new MMA platform, offering high-speed charging and expanded interior space.
Mercedes-Benz has revealed the third-generation GLA, a completely redesigned compact SUV that marks a significant shift in the brand's approach to electrification. The vehicle arrives as a critical volume driver, blending high-performance electric capabilities with a flexible architecture to bridge the gap between internal combustion and a fully electric future.
Built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), the 2028 GLA is designed to support both electric and hybrid drivetrains. The electric lineup is headlined by the GLA 350 4MATIC, which delivers 349 hp and a maximum WLTP range of up to 408 miles (657 km). A second option, the GLA 250+, provides 268 hp. Both EV models are powered by an 85 kWh battery and utilize a sophisticated 800-volt architecture. This system supports DC fast charging up to 320 kW, allowing drivers to add approximately 167 to 168 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
A Shift in Architecture
This redesign follows the introduction of the new CLA and GLB on the same MMA platform. By utilizing a modular system, Mercedes-Benz can offer multiple powertrain types within a single model line. This strategy allows the company to scale its EV transition while maintaining the versatility required for different global markets. The new platform also enables a larger physical footprint; the 2028 GLA features a 109.8-inch wheelbase, which increases rear legroom by up to 1.5 inches over the previous generation.
Market Implications
By integrating 800V charging and a competitive 400-plus mile range into a compact format, Mercedes is directly targeting the premium compact EV segment. These specifications address the primary barriers to EV adoption—charging speed and range anxiety—positioning the GLA as a viable primary vehicle for urban and long-distance use. The move ensures that the brand's entry-level SUV remains competitive against a growing field of luxury electric crossovers.
Timeline and Availability
Electric models are slated to lead the rollout, with a U.S. launch scheduled for the second half of 2027. While the MMA platform is designed to accommodate hybrid variants, specific powertrain details for those models remain unconfirmed. Potential buyers will be watching for official U.S. pricing and the final confirmation of hybrid specifications as the launch window approaches.