2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA vs. Audi Q3 vs BMW X1 vs Lexus NX vs Volvo XC40
When it comes to compact luxury crossovers, competition within the segment has remained fierce. With more and more manufacturers fielding models in this class each year, it’s understandable that you may have had some trouble deciding which one is the best fit for you. Fortunately, Mercedes-Benz of Easton is here to help. We’ve taken the time to assemble this in-depth competitive comparison in which the dynamic Mercedes-Benz GLA goes up against its top rivals from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Volvo. Once you see the results, you’ll understand why the Mercedes-Benz GLA continues to be the favorite among compact luxury crossover buyers.
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Audi Q3
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC® | VS | 2024 Audi Q3 45 Premium AWD |
| $43,850 | MSRP | $39,800 |
| 24 / 32 / 27 ✓ | MPG (city/hwy/combined) | 20 / 28 / 23 |
| Standard ✓ | Front Fog Lights | Not Available |
| Driver & Passenger ✓ | Front Seat Memory | Not Available |
| Standard ✓ | Over-the-Air Software Updates | Not Available |
| 50.5 cubic feet ✓ | Max Cargo Volume | 48 cubic feet |
| Standard ✓ | Driver Attention Alert | Not Available |
| Standard, 10.25-inch ✓ | Digital Gauge Cluster | Optional |
| Standard ✓ | Wireless Smartphone Charging | Optional |
First up to challenge the Mercedes-Benz GLA is the Audi Q3. Comparing equivalent trim levels, the GLA does have a very slight price advantage from the start. If you’re thinking that choosing Audi is the better value, however, you’d be sorely mistaken.
In terms of fuel economy, the GLA is the far superior choice thanks to significantly higher MPG ratings across all three categories of measurement. Other premium features included as standard equipment on the GLA are front-seat memory settings for both driver and passenger, fog lights, over-the-air software updates, wireless smartphone charging, and a 10.25-inch configurable digital gauge cluster. You’ll have to do without those great features when you choose the Q3.
Safety is yet another category where the GLA tops the Q3. You’ll enjoy the confidence and peace of mind from a standard Driver Attention Alert. Finally, the Mercedes-Benz GLA offers a larger cargo capacity than the Audi Q3, making it the better option for those who enjoy taking extended road trips.
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs BMW X1
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC® | VS | 2024 BMW X1 xDrive28i |
| $43,850 | MSRP | $40,500 |
| Standard, Mbrace Connect smart device ✓ | Remote Start | Not Available |
| Power 4-Way (driver & passenger) ✓ | Front Lumbar Support | Not Available |
| 41.1 / 38.4 inches ✓ | Front / Rear Legroom | 40.4 / 37 inches |
| 8 ✓ | Transmission Speeds | 7 |
| 3,450 lbs ✓ | Curb Weight | 3,750 lbs |
| 37.4 feet ✓ | Turning Diameter | 38.4 feet |
| Standard ✓ | Over-the-Air Software Updates | Not Available |
| Standard ✓ | Wireless Smartphone Charging | Optional |
| Standard ✓ | Power-Folding Exterior Mirrors | Not Available |
Next up to compete against the Mercedes-Benz GLA is the BMW X1. As we saw in the prior matchup, the BMW begins with an ever-so-slight price advantage when looking at equivalent trim levels. Once again, this initial “savings” evaporates pretty quickly when we take a closer look.
Both vehicles use the same type of dual-clutch transmission, but with the GLA you get 8 speeds versus the X1’s 7. This is good for responsiveness and fuel economy, both very much desirable traits. Also contributing to these same attributes is the fact that the GLA is 300 pounds lighter, a pretty significant number when you’re talking about compact SUVs. Finally, the Mercedes-Benz GLA boasts greater legroom in both the front and rear rows of seating.
Other great perks you’ll enjoy by choosing the Mercedes-Benz GLA over the BMW X1 include over-the-air software updates, wireless smartphone charging, and power-folding exterior mirrors. You’ll have to shell out plenty of additional cash at BMW in order to get these same great amenities. Why settle for less? Choose Mercedes-Benz instead.
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Lexus NX
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC® | VS | Lexus NX 250 Base AWD |
| $43,850 | MSRP | $43,365 |
| 221 HP / 258 TQ ✓ | Horsepower / Torque | 203 HP / 184 TQ |
| 6.6 seconds ✓ | 0-60 Time | 8.6 seconds |
| Power ✓ | Rear Liftgate | Manual |
| Driver & Passenger ✓ | Front Memory Seats | Not Available |
| 40/20/40 ✓ | Rear Seat Split | 60/40 |
| Standard ✓ | Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers | Not Available |
| Standard ✓ | Over-the-Air Software Updates | Not Available |
Third on our list of rivals to square off against the Mercedes-Benz GLA is the Lexus NX. This time, you’ll have to pay a premium in order to get an equivalent trim level from Lexus. How far does this extra cash get you on the NX? As it turns out, not far at all.
When it comes to a rewarding experience behind the wheel, driving enthusiasts are sure to prefer the Mercedes-Benz GLA. It boasts greater horsepower, greater torque, and a 0 to 60 time that’s a full 2 seconds quicker than the NX 250 AWD. Luxurious standard features are another reason to choose the GLA instead of the NX.
Mercedes-Benz includes a standard power rear liftgate, memory seat settings for the driver and front passenger, over-the-air software updates, 40/20/40 split rear seats, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. All of these great features are either unavailable or require you to step up to a much more expensive trim level at Lexus.
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Volvo XC40
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC® | VS | 2024 Volvo XC40 B5 Core AWD |
| $43,850 | MSRP | $41,995 |
| 24 / 32 / 27 ✓ | MPG (city/hwy/combined) | 24 / 30 / 26 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto ✓ | Smartphone Integration | Wired Android Auto Only |
| 3 ✓ | 12-Volt Power Outlets | 1 |
| 40/40/20 ✓ | Rear Seat Split | 60/40 |
| 41.1 inches / 38.4 inches ✓ | Legroom (front/rear) | 40.9 inches / 36.1 inches |
| 10.25 inches ✓ | Max Touchscreen Size | 9 inches |
| Standard ✓ | Heated Side Mirrors | Not Available |
Last but certainly not least, the Mercedes-Benz GLA goes up against the Volvo XC40. Comparing equivalent trim levels, these two compact luxury SUVs are actually quite different once we take a close look at the finer details. Despite similar performance figures, it’s the GLA that’s the more economical choice in terms of efficiency. The XC40 can’t match its highway and combined MPG ratings, meaning that you’ll spend less at the pump.
Other reasons to choose the GLA include 3 standard 12-volt power outlets, memory functions for both front seats, a 40/40/20 split rear seat, and more legroom. You also have the option of a noticeably larger infotainment touchscreen featuring wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Designed for those who like to make the most of their weekend plans, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is clearly the best choice compared to the Volvo XC40.
Winner – Mercedes-Benz GLA
Now that we’ve tallied the results, the clear winner of this competitive comparison is the Mercedes-Benz GLA. The competition from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Volvo simply cannot match the tremendous efficiency, premium standard equipment, groundbreaking safety, and exceptional value found across the GLA model lineup. Ready to experience all that the GLA has to offer? Our team at Mercedes-Benz of Easton is standing by to help you choose the model that’s perfectly suited for your lifestyle.
