Shocker: Mercedes Will Take on the BMW X2 with the Next-Gen GLA Class

TopSpeed

By Ciprian Florea

Published Apr 17, 2018

It's one of eight new models based on the A-Class

Mercedes-Benz just unveiled the new A-Class at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and set a new benchmark in the class. Sportier than ever and with features borrowed from the CLS, the new A-Class has the most luxurious interior in this segment and a range of powerful but also fuel-efficient engines. Not surprisingly, the Germans now want to take advantage of the new design and platform by creating another seven models, including a competitor for the BMW X2.

The previous-generation A-Class was also the basis for other models, but up until now, it only shared underpinnings with the B-Class, CLA, and GLA-Class. Starting with this generation, Merc wants to use the platform for other models too. Some nameplates, like the GLA and CLA, will carry over. The latter is highly successful in the U.S., so the Germans will keep the model alive into the new generation. However, they will discontinue the Shooting Brake model.

For the first time, the A-Class will offered as a sedan. Previewed by the Concept A Sedan at the Shanghai Auto Show in 2017, it will be a baby CLA and will compete against the new BMW 1 Series Sedan in the U.S and China. Mercedes is also expected to offer the A-Class sedan with a longer wheelbase in China. Of course, Mercedes-Benz will also create a replacement for the B-Class. So far we have a hatchback, three sedans, and a small MPV. That's five models, so there's still three to go. And all of them are crossovers.

Brand-new Competitor for the BMW X2

One of the three new SUVs is obviously the next-generation GLA. The crossover will borrow some of the features seen on the A-Class. But, Mercedes wants to give the already sporty crossover a more SUV-like stance in order to set it apart from the coupe-style X2 and bring it closer to the BMW X1.

"The new BMW X2 is basically like the GLA," said Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche. "And you will see a new GLA. As in other segments, we’ll have two interpretations. So the GLA will be more in the SUV direction, and that will expand our scope. It gives us the possibility of doing something between the A-Class and the GLA."

More specifically, Zetsche is talking about adding a GLA Coupe to the lineup. With the regular GLA set to look more rugged, the GLA Coupe will be aimed at the BMW X2, which just started a new trend in the small crossover segment. Finally, the third small SUV to join the lineup will be the mini G-Class we spotted testing on public roads in recent years. It will be the most rugged mini SUV from the company, and it will most likely carry the GLB name.

There's no word as to when any of these models will become available, but the roll-out should start by the end of 2018. The A-Class Sedan is likely to hit the market first.