What a surprise! Amidst the COVID-19-related restrictions, Mercedes-Benz India has launched the all-new GLA. The SUV is available in four variants – 200 Progressive Line, 220d Progressive Line, 220d 4MATIC AMG Line and the range-topping GLA 35 AMG 4MATIC. In the same order, their prices are Rs 42.1 lakh, Rs 43.7 lakh, Rs 46.7 lakh and Rs 57.28 lakh. At the moment, those prices are introductory in nature and will go up by Rs 1.5 lakh from July 1, 2021.

The GLA 200 houses a 1.33-litre turbocharged petrol engine that puts out 161bhp/250Nm, and a 7-speed automatic transmission. That setup is enough for a 0-100kmph sprint time of 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 210kmph. If you want a bit more oomph, get the GLA 220d. That packs a 1.95-litre turbocharged mill with 188bhp/400Nm, and an 8-speed automatic gearbox. With that, the GLA can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 7.4 seconds and reach 222kmph flat out. With the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system in the mix, the performance figures change to 7.3 seconds and 219kmph.

As for the GLA 35, it becomes the third locally-assembled AMG in India. With a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit under the hood producing 302bhp/400Nm, it can complete the standard sprint in 5.1 seconds and clock 250kmph (electronically limited) at full stretch. The oomph is fed to the all-four wheels via 8-speed automatic transmission and a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Mercedes-Benz has equipped the GLA range with a handsome list of features. It includes a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the latest version of MBUX. Stuff like two-zone automatic climate control, 64-colour ambient lighting, powered front seats with memory function and wireless mobile chargers are also available. And, of course, the compact SUV also packs Mercedes me Connect, which ropes in an array of connected-car features, and a Burmester Surround Sound system.

In addition to offering a 3-year comprehensive warranty, Mercedes-Benz offers an 8-year/unlimited km cover for the engine and transmission for the GLA range. And, there’s a wide range of accessories to choose from, such as a bicycle rack, roof spoiler, a roof box and a logo projector.

The new GLA is a direct rival for the BMW X1, Volvo XC40 and the Mini Countryman. Soon, Audi will join the party with the all-new Q3. Out of the lot, which one would you pick?