2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA release date, specs news: Luxury crossover previewed before NAIAS debut on Jan. 9

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the first look at the 2018 GLA compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) before it makes its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on Monday, Jan. 9.

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA will be a mid-cycle update so it isn't expected to feature drastic changes from its predecessor. However, the teaser image does preview slight improvements when it comes to the luxury compact crossover's appearance. It seems that the forthcoming GLA-Class SUV has gained a sportier and more rugged front fascia, specifically a chunkier grille, more pronounced fog lights and an improved headlight layout.

Meanwhile, everything under the hood is expected to remain the same. The GLA-Class is built using the same Modular Front Architecture (MFA) as the A-Class so it is also likely to feature the same powertrains.

The entry-level Mercedes-Benz GLA250 will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers 208 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour (mph) in 7.2 seconds. It will be available with a front-wheel or an all-wheel drive system.

Meanwhile, the performance-enhanced AMG GLA45 will be equipped with a handcrafted 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine which produces 375 horsepower. It will have an all-wheel drive system and will be able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

The cabin, on the other hand, will most likely come with upgraded interiors including a refreshed cockpit design, a larger 8-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system and Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink compatibility. The five-passenger crossover's interiors will also surely feature premium and luxurious materials. Mercedes-Benz may also offer additional trims and tweaks for the upcoming crossover.

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz is expected to rival the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Lexus NX.

NAIAS 2017 will be held in Detroit, Michigan from Jan. 7 to 22. Meanwhile, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA is expected to go on sale in late 2017.