It's not exactly a coincidence that the fourth member of the Mercedes-Benz MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform is the GLA, as the three-pointed star is betting on a range of crossover/SUVs to increase its global sales in order to finally get back its crown as the world's largest premium car manufacturer by 2020.
“The SUV segment is definitely growing, so today we have about 25 per cent and we will definitely go to 40 per cent. I would say these types of vehicles, the share will grow, and when we come from 25 to 30 per cent I see at least a potential for 40 per cent and higher. “ Dr. Thomas Weber, who is in charge of car development at Daimler AG, told Car Sales at the Mercedes-Benz GLA press drive event in Spain.
The GLA is only the first of many, with the next three years to bring the second generation of the GLK, a BMW X6-fighter in the shape of the Mercedes-Benz MLC and a BMW X4 rival called GLC.
Both the current M-Class and the GL-Class are in line for a mid-cycle facelift in about a year from now, with new generations to spawn by 2020, when the deadline for beating both BMW and Audi in terms of global sales will have to be met.
The GLA is only the first of many, with the next three years to bring the second generation of the GLK, a BMW X6-fighter in the shape of the Mercedes-Benz MLC and a BMW X4 rival called GLC.
Both the current M-Class and the GL-Class are in line for a mid-cycle facelift in about a year from now, with new generations to spawn by 2020, when the deadline for beating both BMW and Audi in terms of global sales will have to be met.