Mercedes-Benz is among the few carmakers that create a variety of car makes and models to match the needs of different consumers. Among the various car it makes, SUVs are one of the top-selling makes. But what is the main difference between the GLA and GLC?
Both the Mercedes GLA and GLC are two excellent SUVs with lots of top-notch and advanced features. Nonetheless, they differ in various ways. The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a subcompact SUV, while the Mercedes GLC is a compact SUV.
What’s more, the GLA is slightly cheaper than the GLC. However, the GLC is more powerful and spacious than the GLA. So, if you’re a family man and want a car that you can fit comfortably with your family, the GLC will be the perfect car. Another major difference is that the GLA is much cheaper than the GLC.
What are the key differences between the Mercedes GLA and GLC?
Features
One of the main differences between these Mercedes SUVs is the features that they come with. Despite having similar features, the GLC comes with more standard features than the GLA. Such features include 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, a universal garage door opener, a genuine wood trim, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. These features are not standard on the GLA.
Size
Another clear difference between these two cars is their size. The Mercedes GLC is quite larger than the GLA, although the height difference is very small. The GLC is around 10-inches longer in length than the GLA and 3-inches longer in width, and bout an inch longer in height.
Despite being small in size, some people will love the GLA as it allows them to move within the city much easy. But for people who want size, comfort, and cargo space, the GLC is the better car. The GLC has a total of 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the GLA has 43.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
Performance
In terms of performance, these cars also vary a lot. However, their base models are both fitted with a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine. Nonetheless, the GLC offers more power as it has more horsepower and torque. So, if you want a more powerful SUV, you will have to go with the GLC SUV.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV generates up to 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA generates a maximum of 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to speed, the GLC is also faster as it can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 6.3 seconds, compared to the GLA that accelerates from 0 to 60 in 7.2 seconds.
Price
As expected, the Mercedes GLA, which is a subcompact SUV with fewer features is much cheaper than the Mercedes GLC, which is compact with additional features. The base price for the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is $33,900, while Mercedes GLC-Class has a base price of $40,700. So, the difference is about $700.
Fuel economy
Since both of these cars are SUVs, expect their fuel usage to be slightly higher than sedans. Nonetheless, the GLC uses more fuel than the GLA. The GLC has a combined EPA fuel economy of 25, while the GLA has an EPA fuel economy of 28. So, the GLA is more fuel-efficient than the GLC.
FAQ
Is it worth buying the Mercedes GLA?
If you desire to have a subcompact SUV, then you will love the Mercedes GLA. Besides, this car is cheaper than compact and regular SUVs. On top of that, it is easier to maintain and uses less fuel than compact and regular SUVs. However, it is not ideal for those looking for better performance and a spacious SUV.
Why choose the Mercedes SUV over BMW SUV?
Mercedes and BMW have been competing for the longest time. It doesn’t matter whether it is in their sedan line or SUV. When it comes to SUVs, both of these brands boast excellent and powerful cars. They are also powerful and very advanced.
However, Mercedes comes with more high-end and technologically advanced features than BMW SUV. For instance, the GLE-Class is more advanced than the X5. On top of that, it offers more comfort and cargo space than the X5. Nonetheless, the X5 has a better ride and performance.
Are Mercedes-Benz SUVs good off-road?
Yes, Mercedes SUVs are some of the best cars off-road. Mercedes models like the G-Class is one of the best SUVs for off-road driving. Thanks to features such as a powerful frame, lots of ground clearance, and three locking differentials. This car was built for military use, meaning it can easily navigate on any terrain.
So, if you want the best SUV for off-road driving, you should consider the Mercedes G-Wagon. But if you can’t afford this car, you should also have the GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS-class. Most of the cars are powerful and spacious, making them perfect for off-road trips.
What is the best Mercedes SUV?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want comfort and luxury, go for the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. If you want durability, pick the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and if you want reliability, the best choice is the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. For people on a tight budget, the Mercedes GLA or GLB class will be an excellent option.
Are Mercedes SUVs reliable?
No, most Mercedes SUVs are not reliable. Mercedes SUVs usually ranks in the bottom third of all brands. However, Mercedes SUVs are more reliable than BMW and Range Rover SUVs. The least reliable Mercedes SUV is the Mercedes GLE-Class, while the most reliable Mercedes SUV is the GLC-Class.
Conclusion
The differences between the Mercedes GLA and GLC are very evident as the GLA is a subcompact SUV, while the GLC is a compact SUV. This means that the GLA is reasonably smaller than the GLC. Other differences include price, comfort, and performance.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC performs better than the GLA, while the GLA is cheaper and easier to maintain than the GLC. Also, these cars differ in terms of comfort as the GLC is more spacious with advanced features that will keep the occupants cozier than the GLA.