What's the Difference: Mercedes-Benz GLA vs BMW X1

Reliability and Quality

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLA and the BMW X1 are high-quality vehicles that offer exemplary reliability ratings that fall into the "Good" category according to the experts at J.D. Power.

Materials inside the GLA are top-notch in both appearance and feel. Highlights include MB-Tex and microfiber upholstery or leather seating option, real aluminum trim, and optional heated and ventilated front seats. In keeping with its luxury mission, the Mercedes-Benz GLA also offers front seats that are powered with memory function, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic roof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate as standard equipment.

BMW also offers a wide array of luxury features, including Sport Seats with SensaTec upholstery and a three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

Performance and Efficiency

Sporty driving dynamics are part of the formula that makes the Mercedes-Benz GLA unique.

A 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine pushes out 221 horsepower to the front wheels or all four wheels in 4MATIC® models. Instead of a traditional automatic transmission, the GLA utilizes an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic for lightning-fast shifts. All this adds up to 0-60 mile per hour times of under seven seconds, while still earning 24 city / 34 highway MPG* thanks to a clever ECO Start/Stop system. A four-wheel independent suspension and extra-long wheelbase help enhance the cornering feel while offering a comfortable ride.

BMW offers a 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder with 247 horsepower and 8-speed automatic transmission that matches up with rear-wheel drive or xDrive AWD. Multiple drive modes are available via Driving Dynamics Control, which includes ECO PRO, COMFORT, and SPORT modes. Thanks to an Auto Start-Stop function, the BMW earns a respectable 24 city and 34 highway MPG*.

Safety and Driving Assistance

Since the Mercedes-Benz GLA is often used for hauling around children and families, it is loaded with a full array of airbags and the latest active safety technology.

Highlights include a Surround View System that shows a clear, 360-degree view around the GLA, ATTENTION ASSIST® to help you stay alert on long drives, and even Crosswind Assist to keep you centered in the lane during high winds. Evasive Steering Assist works with the blind spot warning system and emergency braking to help you avoid obstacles even when you don't notice. Route-based Speed Adaptation considers everything from traffic conditions to potential work zones. All in all, it's a compelling package.

BMW also offers many features, including front and rear Park Distance Control to help you park in tight situations, Active Driving Assistant that keeps an eye on the road in front and to the side of you, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation, and BMW Assist eCall™ which calls authorities to your location if you're in an accident. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning are also available to help make long drives a snap.

Infotainment and Technology

At the core of every Mercedes-Benz GLA experience is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with "Hey, Mercedes" keyword activation. MBUX is controlled via your voice or by a clever touchpad controller that is both ergonomic and intuitive. A seven-inch touchscreen is standard, but a 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display is optional, which makes Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® look awesome. Bluetooth®** connectivity and along with satellite radio, inductive wireless charging with NFC pairing, and in-car Wi-Fi are also available.

BMW's iDrive system is a pleasure to use and features a 10.7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and BMW ConnectedDrive® Services. Bump up to the Connected Package Professional and you'll get Real-Time Traffic Information and On-Street Parking Information (select cities), Hazard Preview, BMW Remote Services including Stolen Vehicle Recovery, Remote Door Unlock, and My BMW App.

Shop Mercedes-Benz GLA Near Buena Park, CA

House of Imports is your first and only stop for all things Mercedes-Benz near Downey, Anaheim, Cerritos, Garden Grove and Westminster. We carry a large selection of the best new Mercedes-Benz products like the GLA, along with Certified Pre-Owned models that pass our stringent 125-point inspection. From unique models to specific options, we carry it all.

Our in-house finance team will work with you to secure a lease payment or loan that fits your needs and budget. We accept trade-ins from all luxury brands, including Lexus, Audi, Volvo, and non-luxury brands like Hyundai. We can work the value right into your GLA purchase.

Once you purchase your new or pre-owned car, House of Imports is here to help you maintain your Mercedes-Benz in our advanced service center. Our dedicated staff looks forward to making your experience a memorable one.

*Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower. Note for MPGe: All data are provisional and subject to official confirmation. The provisional power consumption figures have been calculated based on the ECE test cycle.

**Bluetooth® is a registered mark Bluetooth SIG, INC.