The Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 are two leading contenders in the premium compact SUV market. The Mercedes-Benz GLA is tailored for those who value refined design and a smooth, comfortable ride. On the other hand, the BMW X1 is for drivers who appreciate sporty handling and a practical design. It comes with a bolder exterior, a spacious interior and a focus on dynamic performance. Let’s compare Mercedes Benz GLA vs BMW X1 and see how they perform against each other.
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs BMW X1: Head to Head
The Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 share similarities but differ in key areas. Both are compact SUVs focusing on premium features, but they suit different buyer needs.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA has a sleeker and more refined design. Its flowing lines and understated elegance make it a stylish SUV. It focuses on providing a comfortable and high-tech driving experience with features like the MBUX infotainment system and advanced driver-assist technologies. The GLA’s suspension is tuned for comfort.
As per the BMW X1 history, it always had a sportier and more robust look. Its angular lines and athletic stance give it a strong presence on the road. The X1 is built for practicality and performance, with more boot and rear-seat space than the GLA. It emphasises dynamic handling. All these features make it one of the top used BMW SUVs in the UAE.
Now, let’s dive into their performance and features to see which SUV suits your needs better.
Trim Levels
The Mercedes Benz GLA is available in three car trim levels that meet different needs. The GLA 200 is the entry-level trim, powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine. It has front-wheel drive and provides a smooth, efficient driving experience ideal for city commutes. The GLA 250 4MATIC offers a 2.0-litre engine with all-wheel drive for those looking for more power. The AMG GLA 35 is the top-tier option, focusing on high performance. It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, sports-tuned suspension and AMG-specific styling.
The BMW X1 also offers three trims, beginning with the sDrive18i. This base model features a 1.5-litre engine and front-wheel drive. The xDrive20i adds a 2.0-litre engine, all-wheel drive and upgrades like a panoramic sunroof and heated seats. For a sportier experience, the xDrive23i M Sport trim is available. This version includes an M Sport suspension, an aerodynamic body kit and a more powerful engine.
Performance Specs
The Mercedes-Benz GLA focuses on providing a balanced mix of comfort and performance. The GLA 200 has a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 161 hp and 250 Nm of engine torque. The GLA 250 4MATIC features a more powerful 2.0-litre turbo engine producing 221 hp and 350 Nm of torque. It is all-wheel drive. The AMG GLA 35 provides a 2.0-litre engine that generates 302 hp and 400 Nm of torque for enthusiasts. This engine accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
The BMW X1 offers a sporty driving experience across its trims. The sDrive18i is powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 136 hp and 230 Nm of torque. The xDrive20i provides a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 178 hp and 280 Nm of torque. The xDrive23i M Sport trim stands out with a powerful 2.0-litre engine that produces 218 hp and 350 Nm of torque.
Exterior Features
The exterior features of BMW X1 vs Mercedes Benz GLA are also distinctive. The Mercedes-Benz GLA is known for its sleek and sophisticated design. Its front grille features the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, surrounded by chrome accents. The LED headlights come standard. The daytime running lights are integrated into the grille, giving it a fresh look. The body design is smooth and aerodynamic, with subtle curves emphasising elegance.
The BMW X1 offers a bold and sporty exterior. Its large kidney grille dominates the front, complemented by slim LED headlights. The sculpted body lines and flared wheel arches give it a muscular appearance. Roof rails and a rear spoiler add practicality and a sporty touch. A panoramic sunroof is also available, providing an airy feel. The M Sport trims take the design further with unique styling elements such as an aerodynamic body kit and larger alloy wheels.
Both vehicles have advanced lighting systems, including an adaptive front lighting system.
Colour Options
The Mercedes Benz GLA offers a variety of appealing car paint colour options. For the latest model, the available colours include:
- Polar White
- Night Black
- Cirrus Silver Metallic
- Starling Blue Metallic
- Mountain Grey Metallic
- Cosmos Black Metallic
The BMW X1 also provides an attractive palette of colours. The available options include:
- Alpine White
- Jet Black
- Mineral Grey
- Phytonic Blue
- Sunset Orange
- Storm Bay Metallic
Interior Features
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLA includes a 10.25-inch high-resolution infotainment screen. It features dual digital displays, including a fully digital instrument cluster. The MBUX system supports voice control, navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. The cabin has ambient lighting with 64 colour options and leather seats with power adjustment and optional heating. Higher trims offer a 12.3-inch heads-up display and wireless charging. The boot offers 435 litres of space and can be expanded with flexible rear-seat configurations.
The BMW X1’s interior features a 10.7-inch central touchscreen that integrates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The panoramic sunroof adds brightness and a feeling of openness. The digital instrument cluster measures 10.25 inches and includes advanced features like voice-activated controls. The boot provides 505 litres of storage space and can be expanded by folding the rear seats. If this boot space is still insufficient, follow some car packing hacks to accommodate more luggage into the trunk.
Both provide advanced driver-assistance features, a four-zone climate control system and high-quality materials inside their cabins.
Safety Features
Both the Mercedes Benz GLA or BMW X1 provide modern and advanced safety features.
| Features | Mercedes Benz GLA | BMW X1 |
| Pre-Collision Warning or Alert System | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
| Heads-up Display | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Warning System | Yes | Yes |
| Pre Collision Braking | Yes | Yes |
Infotainment Features
The Mercedes GLA and BMW X1 offer cutting-edge infotainment systems to enhance your driving experience.
| Features | Mercedes Benz GLA | BMW X1 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25 inches | 8.8 inches |
| Speakers | 7 speakers (Burmester available) | 6 speakers (Harman Kardon available) |
| Apple Car Play | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2 USB-C ports | 2 USB-C ports |
Price Comparison
The Mercedes Benz GLA starts at AED 270,900. The starting price of the BMW X1 in the UAE is AED 220,000. However, prices of other variants may vary.
The prices for used SUV models vary based on their model years. For instance, the average price of the used Mercedes Benz GLA for sale in the UAE has ranged between AED 80,600 for the 2019 model to AED 158,200 for its 2023 model year in 2024.
On the other hand, buying a used BMW X1 in the UAE has a varying price range. The 2019 BMW X1 model has an average price of AED 85,100, while the SUV’s 2023 model averaged AED 183,800 in 2024.
Disclaimer: The average prices mentioned in the comparison between Mercedes Benz GLA and BMW X1 from dubizzle data. They do not represent the actual car transactions in the UAE. The average prices (AED) are for used models manufactured from 2019 to 2023.
FAQs
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLA offer advanced driver assistance features?
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLA has advanced driver assistance features such as lane departure warning, pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control.
Can I get all-wheel drive in the BMW X1?
Yes, the BMW X1 is available with xDrive, which is BMW’s all-wheel-drive system. It offers better stability and traction.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLA have a premium audio system?
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLA offers an optional Burmester surround sound system, providing an immersive listening experience with superior sound quality.
Is the BMW X1 suitable for families?
Yes, the BMW X1 is a practical choice for families. It offers a spacious interior, ample cargo space and features like rear-seat USB ports and optional child safety locks.
That was all about how you can compare BMW X1 with Mercedes Benz GLA. It has shed light on many things to consider when buying an SUV as your daily driven vehicle. Both the vehicles offer impressive features, performance and luxury. The GLA excels in advanced technology and comfort, while the X1 provides a sportier, more dynamic driving experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your style, performance and functionality preferences.
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For more comparisons between your desired makes and models, keep reading UAE’s leading auto blog.
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