On sale in the UK from November, the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 rival is based on the same platform as the A-Class and CLA but features a high-riding SUV design.

Mercedes promises best-in-class aerodynamic efficiency with a Cd figure of 0.29, helped by numerous aerodynamic optimisation measures including roof spoiler lip and the aerodynamically shaped tail lights. Helped by this, the GLA offers fuel economy of up to 65mpg.

Practical features will include rear seat backrests that can be folded down and also adjusted for angle. Boot space rises from 421 to 836 litres and there’s also a low sill and wide tailgate, which opens automatically as an option.

Two petrol engines – a 156PS 1.6-litre GLA 200 and a 211PS 2.0-litre GLA 250 – will initially be available along with the 136PS GLA 200 CDI which offers a provisional 114g/km, and a 170PS GLA 220 CDI, both of which feature 2.2-litre diesel units. All the engines feature ECO start/stop as standard.

Gearboxes take the form of a six-speed manual transmission or the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will come as standard, with a GLA 250 4MATIC all-wheel drive version offering a 0-100kph time of 6.5 seconds, with a top speed of 145mph and a combined consumption figure of 7.1l/100kmg and 151g/km. This model also features DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and an off-road transmission mode.

Safety kit includes Attention Assist drowsiness detection and radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect against collisions from a speed of 4mph.

There’s also a Lane Tracking package with Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist or Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

The GLA goes on sale from the end of this year. Specification and pricing are to be confirmed.