Merc's new SUV is a portable cinema

Remember the good old drive-in movie theatre?

Well Merecedes-Benz is reviving the concept with its new GLA concept.

The sporty, SUV crossover is actually a portable movie theatre, using laser beams that can, supposedly, project images from a smartphone, the internet or digital storage device.

All you need to do is point the car at a suitably flat surface.

Similar technology was shown at this year’s Detroit Motor Show on the Smart Forstars concept.

Aside from its ability to play movies, the GLA concept looks to be an interesting addition to Merc’s lineup.

Aimed at younger buyers, the crossover will be unveiled at this weekend’s Shanghai Motor Show and should be a rival to the BMW X1.

Details remain scarce, but expect the GLA to be powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine producing 155kW.