(August 14, 2013) MONTVALE, N.J. — Mercedes-Benz has introduced an all-new compact crossover vehicle — the 2015 GLA. The GLA-Class will arrive in U.S. showrooms in the fall of 2014 and it will make its formal appearance next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The first Mercedes-Benz in the fast-growing compact SUV segment is highly maneuverable around town — length 173.9 inches, width 71 inches and height 58.8 inches — lively on country roads and athletic and efficient on the highway. The high-quality appointments, developed with much attention to detail, and the versatile interior clearly position the GLA as a premium compact SUV.

The 2015 GLA-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to be available with the new-generation permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC, with fully variable torque distribution.

The new GLA rounds off the extensive SUV portfolio of Mercedes-Benz. With five model series (GLA, GLK, ML, GL and G), the company offers the widest range of any European premium manufacturer, and meets all the individual mobility wishes of its customers.

"With the compact GLA we add a fifth attractive SUV variant to the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio in this constantly growing segment. The GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling," said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, executive vice president Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. "So I am very confident that the GLA with its fascinating design and high everyday practicality will fill many new customers with enthusiasm for the Mercedes-Benz brand."

A modern four-cylinder engine with turbocharging and direct injection, as well as an ECO start/stop function as standard, make for superior efficiency. The new GLA-Class also takes the lead in its segment with its dynamic performance figures.

The 2015 GLA250 4MATIC features a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine that generates 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It sprints from zero to 60 mph in only 6.4 seconds, underlining the dynamic claim to leadership of the GLA-Class. It has a top speed of 145 mph. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission which unites comfort and sportiness. The front-wheel drive GLA250 will be available in the U.S. in early 2015.