Mercedes has pulled the wraps off an all-new GLA, completely reinventing its best-selling compact SUV with a fresh design, a roomier interior and a big push towards electric power.

Leading the new lineup are three fully electric versions, headed by a model with a claimed range of up to 406 miles, while hybrid petrol versions are due to join the lineup next year. UK prices and specifications are expected to be confirmed shortly.

Although the new GLA is 20mm lower than the car it replaces, Mercedes has stretched the wheelbase by 61mm, giving passengers more room inside, while making the SUV look longer and a bit more rugged.

The styling has moved on considerably. The most eye-catching feature is Mercedes's latest illuminated grille, making its debut on a compact model. Hundreds of tiny, illuminated elements sit behind the front panel, while animated lighting sequences greet drivers as they approach the car.

It's certainly a dramatic look, although buyers choosing the hybrid versions will get a more traditional grille design.

"The new GLA is designed to excite customers every day. Drawing on 140 years of innovation, we've built the most expressive GLA ever. Combined with a newly designed interior that brings even more space and comfort, we've further elevated the appeal of what is currently already our best-selling compact model," said Ola Källenius, chair of the management board at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Mercedes is launching the new GLA with three electric versions: the GLA 200 Electric gets a 58kWh battery, while the GLA 250+ Electric and GLA 350 4Matic Electric use a larger 85kWh pack.

The headline figure is the maximum range of more than 400 miles, putting the GLA among the longest-range electric SUVs of its size. With an 800-volt electrical system, Mercedes says drivers can add up to 168 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a suitably powerful charger, with DC charging speeds reaching up to 320kW.

The new GLA has also become more practical. Boot space increases to 410l (70l more than before), while folding the rear seats expands capacity to 1,400l. There’s also a 107l frunk that's large enough for charging cables or a bit of extra luggage.

Inside, Mercedes has completely redesigned the cabin with a cleaner, more minimalist look dominated by the latest ginormous MBUX superscreen. Depending on version, it stretches almost the full width of the dashboard, combining a digital driver's display with a central touchscreen and an optional screen for the front-seat passenger.

Artificial intelligence plays a much bigger role than before, too. Mercedes says its latest MBUX virtual assistant can hold more natural conversations, remember earlier parts of a discussion and combine information from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini to answer a wider range of questions.

That means drivers can ask about everything from charging points and parking spaces to weather forecasts, currency conversions and even football scores, all without needing to stick to rigid voice commands.

Entertainment has been expanded, too, with access to more than 40 apps, including YouTube, Disney+ and the Sony Pictures Ridevu service, while Dazn sports streaming and Apple AirPlay video support are planned for a later date.

"The new GLA is engineered to make advanced technology feel effortless. Powered by MB.OS and its AI-driven capabilities, it anticipates and supports to make everyday life noticeably easier. With a broad portfolio of all-electric and hi-tech electrified combustion variants, up to 406 miles of range and 168 miles recharged in just 10 minutes, it redefines electric usability in its segment," said Jörg Burzer, member of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, and chief technology officer, development and procurement.

Mercedes has also focused on reducing the environmental impact of the new GLA. The company says the electric version cuts its carbon footprint by around 40 per cent, compared with today's petrol-powered model, thanks to cleaner battery production, greater use of recycled materials and aluminium produced using renewable energy.