Following the crisis decline, there is an increase in sales of luxury crossovers. The leading position is held by the Mercedes-Benz GLA. However, BMW decided not to fall behind and introduced the X1 model to the market. The eternal struggle continues, isn't this a reason to compare the two new crossovers — BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA, and choose the best one?
Exterior Solutions of BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA
Both companies have firmly established themselves in a certain niche of style. BMW represents sporty cars, while Mercedes has always been a representative car. The X1 and GLA models decided to go against the rules and present themselves in an unconventional way for the companies. The X1 became much more solid, while the GLA acquired sporty and dynamic features.
The companies have not deprived their offspring of modern appearance. The majority of owners are under 35 years old, but this is not a limitation, just a statistic. No one prohibits people of older age from «indulging» in these models. Both cars cannot be called exclusively feminine or male-oriented. The only thing that might distinguish the owners in terms of gender is perhaps the color.
The Bavarian car belongs to the globally renowned X series, which, in any case, considers the X1 as the younger brother. A scaled-down copy of the X5, but it cannot be said that the dimensions of the X1 are small, it is larger than its rival, the GLA.
The forms of Mr. X are close to a sportback, but unmistakably carry the X-style of BMW. The front of the car is adorned with a menacing and slightly cunning look. Not without the trademark feature — powerful air intakes. Both models have not lost their «family» distinction from other brands.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has a more spirited appearance and chic design. Bright details of the grille and diffusers, while not genuine, emphasize the overall image of the model.
The material they are made of does not look cheap or unnatural. All the familiar characteristics of a Mercedes. The body is streamlined, accentuated by elegant lines. The rear part of the Mercedes is crowned with a spoiler of small size.
The difference in road clearance is noticeable. The BMW has a clearance of 183mm, while the Mercedes has 154mm. The choice for Russian roads is obvious based on this criterion. But neither of them claimed to be off-road vehicles.
Interior Comparison
After admiring the stylish and attractive exterior, it's time to open the doors to the interiors of both models — BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA.
The BMW X1 stands out for the spaciousness of its interior design both in the front and rear. The front seats are equipped with adjustments in all positions. The seats are placed high. The rear seats not only have longitudinal adjustments but also incline adjustments.
This is not only very convenient but also a rarity among crossovers. Three large passengers can comfortably fit in the rear row. There is enough legroom. The trunk volume is 505 liters, which increases to 1,550 liters when the seats are folded down.
The BMW X1's dashboard is equipped with an instrument panel that is easy to read. The level of illumination, design, color — everything is harmoniously put together. Depending on the configuration, a 6.5 or 8.8-inch multimedia screen is offered.
The climate and music control unit is located right below the monitor. The multi-functional steering wheel, with excellent grip and design, fits harmoniously into the interior.
The design of the GLA's interior is similar to a sports car, especially evident in the limited space. However, neither the driver nor the front passenger experience discomfort. The front row of seats has a snug design, allowing for a natural sitting position.
The low roof at the rear of the car does not allow rear passengers to feel as comfortable as those in the front. Rear seat adjustments are absent. The luggage compartment volume is 340 liters. In this case, ergonomics give one point to the BMW X1.
The quality of the finishing materials and their fit does not raise any questions, but it is worth noting that the tactile and visual finish of the Mercedes is more pleasant and luxurious.
Mercedes features a 3-spoke steering wheel on a stylish dashboard. The central part of the dashboard is adorned with a 7-inch screen of the multimedia system, which elevates above the dashboard, rather than being integrated into it. This design is commonly found in many Mercedes models today. Below the multimedia screen is the music and climate control unit.
Safety of GLA and X1
In terms of safety equipment, Mercedes predominates. The car is equipped with 7 airbags, a well-functioning emergency brake booster BAS system, mandatory ABS, and ESP stability system. Refined dynamic control on sharp turns. The Hold Assist system for assistance on inclines and during vehicle start is not a novelty for Mercedes. An additional bonus is the car's fatigue sensor.
BMW offers 6 airbags in the base version, ABS, dynamic stability control, emergency brake booster, turn braking system, and anti-skid system.
Read more: What's Better, BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC
Driving Features and Price of BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA
BMW offers 6 engine options with an eight-speed automatic transmission, predominantly based on all-wheel drive.
The behavior on the road of the X1 is characterized by dynamism, stability, and sturdiness, indicating that the car is well-crafted and thought-out. The car handles lateral loads well, is good at cornering, and does not cause discomfort.
However, on straight roads, a slight swaying can be noticed. The downsides include non-informative steering control and fairly weak sound insulation. Overall, on the road, the X1 behaves like a true BMW — boldly, briskly, and with a sense of drive. The sharp steering and lightning-fast response to the accelerator pedal only confirm this.
The BMW does not possess off-road capabilities, despite its good ground clearance of 183mm. The price of the X1 starts at 2.02 million rubles. The offered configuration is quite comfortable, but for complete enjoyment, it is better to go beyond the base version.
Mercedes offers only two engine options with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The power characteristics of the Mercedes are lower than those of the BMW, but despite this, Mercedes' engines are more elastic. The acceleration dynamics are higher, but the difference in figures is small.
The braking distance of the Mercedes is shorter than that of BMW, as evidenced by test results. Mercedes saves more on fuel, being more economical. The steering of the Mercedes is much more informative, the car holds the road well and handles sharp turns.
The dynamic stabilization is very strict in the Mercedes, the star German car is designed for complete driving tranquility, which is further evidenced by excellent sound insulation. The price of the Mercedes GLA starts at 2.21 million rubles. The base configuration also presents a decent offering.
Mercedes will be more expensive in both the base and maximum configurations. However, these cars are chosen not based on price but on taste. It's hard to say who is better and who's falling behind. The choice is solely based on preferences.
For those who love the roar of the engine and active driving — definitely BMW, for those who prefer comfort and relaxed driving — Mercedes. Regardless of the fact that both cars have «changed» in appearance, they have not deviated from their fundamental individual characteristics.
