The Mercedes GLA is starting 2017 with an extended range of engines, updated interior and exterior design, plus updated equipment lines. The world premiere is this week at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The new version of the GLA, which was originally launched in 2013, will go on sale on 9th January, while first customer cars will start arriving from April 2017.

Customers will have a choice between three chassis variants: as standard the GLA features comfort suspension; lowered suspension is available on request (in conjunction with AMG Line or the Dynamic Handling package).

With the optional off-road comfort suspension (standard in the UK) the body is 30 millimetres higher. This results in improved off-road capability thanks to higher ground clearance and a higher seat position.

Modified bumpers, new light-alloy wheels and the addition of a new colour, Canyon Beige, are just a few of the enhancements to the new GLA. The previous optional bi-xenon headlamps have been replaced by LED headlights.

The interior of the GLA has been enhanced with new seat covers and trim parts plus chromed control panels. The free-standing 20.3 cm (8-inch) media display is joined by new dials with red needles. The control switches on the electric seat adjustment are now finished in chrome – and the stowage compartment in the centre console is also now surrounded by a chrome frame.

Optional LED High Performance headlights replace the current bi-xenon headlights. Alongside enhanced illumination they help to relieve the strain on the eyes during journeys at night. The energy consumption is also lower: around 60 per cent less than xenon and approx. 70 per cent less than halogen. The low-beam headlights use LED projector-beam technology, while the main beam uses LED reflector technology. Changing a bulb is no longer necessary over the entire lifetime of the car.

The GLA features LED High Performance tail lights with a multi-level function, while the brake lights and indicators are controlled in three intensities. Full brightness by day, a medium level for driving during the night and a lower level when at a standstill during the night, so as not to dazzle other road users. With this multi-level function the GLA automatically offers the correct level of brightness for all light, weather and traffic conditions.

Small design changes such as aerodynamically optimised exterior mirror housings and an aerodynamically optimised rear silencer with a connected diffuser to improve the flow of air beneath the underbody, have improved the cd value from the previous 0.29 to 0.28.

Exact UK specification and pricing are still to be confirmed.