Mercedes-Benz GLA vs. BMW X1 vs. Audi Q3: for the complete package
January 21 2022,
If you take a look at the lineup of the three big German rivals Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi, you'll find that each offers models in a segment where the other is present. No ground is left vacant for the other team.
In the subcompact SUV category, each company has its own solution: the GLA from Mercedes, the X1 from BMW and the Q3 from Audi. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, but objectively, if you take the time to analyze all three, one stands out because of its body of work.
Let's take a look at why and how the GLA stands out.
Its style
The Audi Q3 is a stylish SUV with a timeless design. However, it doesn't stand out from the rest of the brand, let alone its competitors in the class. For anonymity, it doesn't get much better.
On the BMW side, the X1 is nice, but as is the case with that manufacturer, all vehicles end up looking the same.
Compare that to the GLA, which offers a truly sporty look with its coupe-like profile and very tapered rear end, decorated by beautiful lights that exude strength and elegance. And that's not to mention the signature AMG styling touches it can receive, additions that make it absolutely cracking.
Mechanical choices
With the GLA, you have three options under the hood. The engine is the same, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, but it's dressed up in different sauces. In base 250 configuration, it serves up 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That capability is pushed to 302 and 382 horsepower, respectively, with the AMG 35 and AMG 45 liveries (torque at 295 and 354 pound-feet, in that order).
Only BMW has two solutions, but its most powerful one tops out at 301 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. At Audi, the most powerful engine delivers 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Clearly, Mercedes-Benz is the place to be.
Interior
On board, we could practically repeat word for word what we said about the competition. Except that this time, traditionalism is found at BMW while Audi is innovating at a snail's pace. It's nice and well designed in both cases, but it has nothing to do with the modern and futuristic environment of the GLA. The massive, crystal-clear screen overlaps all the information you want and offers privileged access to the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system whose interface is simply brilliant.
Inside, it's clear that you'll have a better time in the GLA.
Finally, we could add driving to our list of advantages. Of course, all three vehicles offer neat and interesting road manners. However, because of the mechanical variety offered, there's a little something extra from Mercedes-Benz with the GLA, especially in AMG configuration.
That's why it's THE vehicle to discover in this category. Compare and see.
