Mercedes GLA vs. BMW X1: which is better?
Mercedes-Benz GLA vs BMW X1: our head-to-head comparison review is sure to help you pick your next car
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Premium, compact crossovers are hitting a real sweet spot in the used car market as of late.
Because of their small dimensions and versatility, they make a great option for those not wanting a large SUV as a family car.
Two of the most popular on the used market include the Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1.
You can find both the used Mercedes and used BMW for impressive prices, as well.
These are two German cars that offer everything from great reliability to epic levels of practicality – but which is better suited to you?
Styling
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Upon first glance, you may mistake the GLA for an A-Class, and you wouldn’t be completely wrong for thinking that.
It’s essentially a hatchback on stilts, which means it appeals to a new audience who want a small car but with SUV-like properties.
But if you really want the full off-roading look, some models come with large roof bars that are, in theory, for carrying all your expedition kit. But in reality, it’ll be roof boxes or snowboards – and Mercedes knows this.
The BMW X1 also looks a bit like a raised hatchback, drawing inspiration from the 1 Series.
There’s definitely a clear family resemblance between this and the larger X3 and X5 models, which can be seen in its lines, front grille, and stance.
What are they like to drive?
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Unlike a traditional crossover SUV, the BMW X1 handles really well. It’s lower to the ground than most others, which helps, but it’s also thanks to BMW’s incredible suspension system.
This makes it great for driving on country roads as well as on a longer motorway slog because you’re not swaying around too much like you would in a larger, taller SUV.
Whether you go for a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, it has lively acceleration offering good control on longer journeys and enough poke for city driving.
On the other hand, the GLA is just as impressive. It’s especially easy for driving in towns and cities, thanks to its raised suspension and light steering. The taller seating position really helps to see over traffic.
It’s available with a turbocharged petrol engine, a diesel or a plug-in hybrid – like its rival.
Interior and technology
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When you step inside the GLA, you’re greeted by the same impressive interior you’d find in any other Mercedes vehicle.
There are four different trim levels to choose from, but even the entry-level SE cars come well equipped with features such as air-conditioning, a reversing camera, leather trim, 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic emergency braking.
Moving up the range you’ll find even more tech including wireless smartphone charging, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors and a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen.
But just because the above wowed you doesn’t mean the X1 won’t. BMW has been known for making functional and premium car interiors for decades, and this is no different.
It has very comfortable seats with added lumbar support for those with a bad back, a great infotainment system running BMW’s iDrive software, and the option to add a Harman/Kardon stereo, which brings more speakers and greater power.
Both cars are available with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard too, so if you don’t want to spend a while getting to grips with a new infotainment system, you can simply connect your phone and go.
Bootspace and practicality
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It’s probably best to not think of these as SUVs, but more as large hatchbacks when it comes to bootspace and practicality – they are smaller cars, after all.
The GLA’s boot measures up to 495 litres while the X1’s boot is 500 litres in its largest guise.
To put this into perspective, there’s plenty of room in both boots for a large weekly shop, a couple of large suitcases, or a fair few softer bags for a long weekend away.
When you move to the rear seats, there's plenty of headroom and legroom in both cars – making them roomier than hatchbacks but tighter than a large SUV.
Read our in-depth car reviews:
Safety and reliability
Because the GLA and X1 are modern cars, there should be very little to worry about regarding reliability.
With the high levels of German engineering they comply with and the sharing of parts across other models in the range, we're confident that with regular servicing, you’ll be just fine.
However, if you’d like added reassurance, then you can opt for cinchCare to increase the longevity of your vehicle with a warranty, breakdown assistance, and routine servicing.
As for safety, both cars scored a full five stars in their most recent Euro NCAP crash tests, which shows how well-built and solid they are.
Dimensions:
Mercedes-Benz GLA
Length: 4410mm
Width: 1834mm
Height: 1616mm
Boot space: 495 litres
BMW X1
Length: 4500mm
Width: 1845mm
Height: 1642mm
Boot space: 500 litres
Verdict: Mercedes GLA vs BMW X1: which should you buy?
No doubt you’ve come to your own conclusion after reading our comparative review of the GLA and X1, but just in case you need a little nudge, here’s a quick verdict.
If you want something that feels more like an SUV then we’d recommend the GLA. Because of its high seating position and look, you'd be happier looking over traffic when compared to an A-Class.
It’s also packed full of amazing tech to make those longer journeys even more exciting.
The X1 is better suited to those who like driving. Because of its sharper handling and stiffer (but not too stiff) suspension, you are in for a treat, whether you’re on twisty country roads or the motorway.