Mercedes-Benz has opened the order books for its smallest crossover, the GLA, with deliveries to begin in March 2014 in Europe.

The fourth out of a total of five new FWD compact models, the GLA is also the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to be optionally available with the new generation of the 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive system.

Prices in Germany start at €29,303.75 ($39,897), including 19 percent VAT, for the entry-level model GLA 200 (155hp/156PS). The 208hp/211PS GLA 250 is priced from €35,283.50 ($48,038), followed by the range-topping gasoline model, the GLA 250 4Matic, starting at €37,496.90 ($51,014).

The entry-level diesel model, the GLA 200 CDI, is priced from €32,130 ($43,713). Powered by a 2.2-liter engine delivering 135hp (136PS), the GLA 200 CDI is also the most economical in the range, averaging 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 mpg US). The GLA 200 CDI 4Matic starts from €36,509.20 ($49,670).

The GLA 220 CDI 4 Matic features a more powerful version of the same 2.2-liter engine, rated at 168 hp (170PS). It is priced from €37,038.75 ($50,428) for the front-wheel-drive model and €39,252.15 ($53,442) for the 4MATIC version.

Mercedes-Benz also announced pricing for the GLA Edition 1 limited series model that can be ordered in combination with all engine variants for approximately one year following market launch. Prices start from €34,603.75 ($47,113) for the GLA 200 Edition 1.

The GLA is offered with three lines, Style, Urban and AMG Line, packages such as Night and Exclusive, as well as an extensive list of optional extras.

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