Mercedes has reportedly stated that when the current generation of automobiles reaches the end of its useful life, it will abandon some of its smaller models. The survival of the GLA makes sense given the current crossover craze, even though vehicles like the A-Class sedan, B-Class minivan, and CLA Shooting Brake are in jeopardy. A series of recently released spy images provide us with a sneak peek at the next GLA, which is being tested on an actual body.

Although discussing the car's appearance would be pointless, we did note that this test mule sits a little higher than typical. That is for a good reason, as the huge battery underneath the car is visible. Our colleagues at Motor.es, who kindly shared these spy photographs with us, have revealed that the next GLA will replace its plug-in hybrid configuration with a self-charging hybrid system.

Indeed, they assert that Mercedes plans to completely phase out gasoline and diesel versions of the new GLA, making a self-charging hybrid the only option available for purchase. There will be a fully electric EQA available once more, albeit it might go by a different name because the German luxury company is rumored to be discontinuing the EQ brand starting in 2024.

We can't claim to be shocked by the drastic adjustment that restricts the 2017 GLA's powertrain options to hybrid and electric models. Nonetheless, the European Union will implement Euro 7 requirements in 2025, which would make it considerably harder for automakers to abide by emissions laws. Separately, Mercedes has stated that, "wherever market conditions allow," it will be prepared to offer an electric-only portfolio in Europe by 2030, raising the prospect of an all-ICE vehicle.

Mercedes and Chinese automaker Geely established a collaboration to develop hybrid powertrains in November 2020. It makes likely that the upcoming generation of small cars will make use of this technology; the redesigned CLA, which is scheduled to make its debut in 2024, may be the first vehicle to do so. It stands to reason that a production model won't be released until the end of 2025, as this GLA is merely an early test run. This hybrid powertrain, which will be made in China and Europe, will also be used in Geely's Volvo.