The Mercedes Benz GLA is basically an A-Class on stilts which means that it recently got a complete overhaul which finally made both the A-Class and the GLA SUV worthy of their Mercedes badge. The older A-Class was a bit of a mixed bag because it lacked in both luxury and comfort which meant that it wasn’t up to the task.
The luxury small/subcompact SUV segment is incredibly competitive and popular, and that’s why automakers try their best to offer impressive cars that don’t break the bank. The BMW X1 is nearing the end of its lifeline and should be replaced soon, but it is still a competitive SUV that can be bought for significant discounts.
As such, the Mercedes Benz GLA is an overall better option than the X1 because it offers a more futuristic and luxurious experience. Both the interior and exterior styling are way better executed and the driving experience is also more sophisticated and more premium.
The BMW X1 is still a lovely SUV for those who are looking for more passenger and cargo space and an interior that is intuitive and easy to get used to. The X1 is still competitive when it comes to the driving experience as tends to offer a more dynamic experience if equipped with the right trim.
2022 Mercedes Benz GLA – A huge upgrade from the old model
The 2022 Mercedes Benz GLA starts at $36,230 for the GLA 250 equipped with a 2.0l inline 4-cylinder engine that makes 221hp and 258lb-ft of torque. If you pay an additional $2000 you can upgrade to the 4MATIC model which includes AWD and makes the GLA more capable in adverse weather conditions.
You can also opt for range-topping AMG models, but these often sell for more than $55,000. The GLA looks impressive both inside and out and if you love that Mercedes elegance, the GLA is the pick for you. One of the greatest showstopping features of the GLA is the futuristic-looking interior that boasts two large screens.
However, if you want both of these screens to look and feel as best as possible, you need to pay quite a bit of money as the standard system looks rather sad. The GLA does not offer class-leading passenger space either and the cargo space is actually the worst in its class by quite some margin.
The GLA drives comfortably and with great sound insulation. No matter which trim level you go for you will benefit from class-leading comfort.
2022 BMW X1 – Nearing the end of its lifeline
The 2022 BMW X1 costs $35,400 for the 28i model which also packs a 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder engine that pushes out 228hp and 258lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the xDrive variant with AWD for $2000 which makes the X1 more or less identical with the GLA as far as power and engine choices are concerned.
You can also opt for range-topping BMW M models which rival Mercedes AMG models. As previously stated, the current generation of the BMW X1 is one of the oldest current BMW models available and is due for a complete overhaul this year or the next one.
This does not mean that the X1 feels archaic because it still offers a fresh exterior design even though the interior design is starting to show its age a little bit. Therefore, if you are someone who does not like comprehensive touch screen infotainment systems and lack of buttons, the X1 is the car for you.
The X1 is still a more spacious SUV both as far as passenger space is concerned and as far as cargo space is concerned. M Sport models feel the most dynamic to drive without being overbearing. It is a more dynamic option, but it can’t match the GLA for both on-road elegance and comfort.
Conclusion – The Mercedes Benz GLA is a better car
Thanks to a newer platform packed with all the contemporary luxury and comfort features, the Mercedes Benz GLA beats the BMW X1 in most segments, especially when it comes to desirability, luxury, and comfort.
The GLA looks and feels 21st century while the X1 does seem like a car from the previous decade. That’s not to say that the X1 is a bad car, but it simply can’t match the GLA. The previous generation of the GLA was not able to compete with the likes of the BMW X1, but the current one certainly bests the X1 in most areas.
BMW is likely going to release a brand new X1 this year or the next one which should close the gap between these two in most areas. Until then, the GLA takes the cake.
FAQ Section
Is the Mercedes Benz GLA a more efficient car than the BMW X1?
Both the BMW X1 and the Mercedes Benz GLA offer impressive engines which can trade punches in almost every department including efficiency. The X1 is rated for 24MPG in the city and 33MPG on the highway while the GLA is rated for 24MPG in the city and 34MPG on the highway.
This means that these two are virtually identical as far as fuel efficiency is concerned and the greatest difference lies in how you tend to drive the car.
Is the Mercedes Benz GLA a safer car than the BMW X1?
Both the BMW X1 and the Mercedes Benz GLA offer impressive safety ratings as both of these are rated with a 5-star safety rating. This means that they combine passive and active software safety features which ensure top-notch safety.
The differences here are marginal as well, so it’s safe to say that both of these are equally as safe.
Is the Mercedes Benz GLA a more reliable car than the BMW X1?
According to a few credible sources such as J.D. Power, the BMW X1 does seem to be slightly more reliable. The differences here are marginal as well, but most sources give a slight advantage to the X1. This is rather expected as the current generation of the X1 has been on the market for a while.
All in all, both of these are above average reliable, especially when compared to their predecessors.