Mercedes-Benz Drops First teaser Of Facelifted 2017 GLA

Mercedes-Benz has issued it first official teaser of the 2017 GLA, with a shadowy snapshot of the updated small SUV revealed via the brand’s Twitter account.

Though there’s not too much to discern from this first image, changes to the front bumper, air intakes, and fog light housings are visible, along with a reprofiled grille insert and modified headlight internals.

Changes to sheetmetal aren't expected, but restyled taillights and new rear bumpers to go along with the redesigned front end should be part of the package, along with new alloy wheel designs.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA. Fitness programme for the compact SUV. World premiere on 9 January 2017 @NAIASDetroit. pic.twitter.com/pthCv6k5MI

— Mercedes-Benz (@MercedesBenz) January 2, 2017

Though not officially confirmed, the GLA update is also expected to bring small revisions to the engine line-up, with massaged power outputs including a bump from 155kW to 160kW for the GLA 250, though the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 has already received the uprated 280kW 2.0 litre turbo engine as seen in the A 45 and CLA 45.

Interestingly Mercedes-Benz mentions a "fitness program for the compact SUV," indicating that the update could bring with it a more dynamic, road-focussed package, though marketing hype is a more likely explanation for the unusual description.

Like the A-Class and CLA, the GLA range will also be treated to some minor interior changes, including the addition of a larger 8.0-inch Comand display screen with Apple Carplay and adjustable ambient lighting on some models.

Full details, and additional images will be released as part of the 2017 GLA’s official unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show on the 9th of January, and TMR will have full details of the updated model as they become available.

MORE: Mercedes-Benz | GLA | Detroit Auto Show