Comparison: BMW X1 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA

If you're looking to enter the premium SUV arena, but want something that's not as large yet still versatile, the 2023 BMW X1 and 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA are great vehicles to consider.

Both feature lots of power, personality, and modern technology that enhance your driving experience in addition to offering confident off-road capabilities.

Here are the ways that each of these vehicles, the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, stand out in the compact luxury-class SUV segment.

   

2023 BMW X1 Comparison Highlights

The 2023 X1 is BMW's all-new, third-generation Compact Sports Activity Vehicle, and it's more spacious and more advanced than ever before. Positioned as an entry-point into the premium SUV segment, the X1 is eager to support your daily lifestyle and desire for adventures.

On the exterior, examples of BMW's latest design language can be found on the new pronounced front end, almost-square BMW kidney grille, and dynamically sculpted surfaces. You can tell that the X1 is part of BMW's X family with consistent design elements like the black trim along the entire lower edge of the vehicle, and a long roofline that flows into a spoiler which extends over the rear glass. Take just one glance and it'll be clear that the X1 is both versatile and rugged.

Thanks to larger body dimensions, the interior of the X1 is spacious and comfortably seats up to five adults while still offering plenty of cargo capabilities. Both the driver and front passenger can now enjoy the noticeable increase in shoulder and elbow room, while the 40/20/40 split rear seats can fold down for customizable luggage accommodations.

An elevated digital experience awaits all passengers of the 2023 X1, which is powered by the new BMW iDrive system. This intuitive point of engagement offers touch and voice control through a gorgeous BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The expansive and frameless glass surface of the BMW Curved Display is truly a showcase piece for the driver-focused cockpit, and brings heightened levels of elegance as well as technology.

Under the hood, a revised 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine provides 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. And part of the benefit of the engine's design and turbocharging is that peak torque is available between 1,500 - 4,000 rpm, meaning you'll get exciting accelerations and confident towing capabilities. And all 2023 X1 models feature a standard 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission that delivers quick and smooth gear changes through fully electric actuation. With its advanced control, the transmission can also adjust its shift strategy to maximize efficiency based on road elevations, enabling coasting when appropriate.

You'll find this same level of intelligent control with the X1's standard xDrive all-wheel drive and driver assistance systems. Utilizing a variety of sensors to monitor the environment and vehicle operations, the X1 is always working to provide you with the best stability and performance from both an adventure and safety perspective. And for the first time ever, BMW's Driving Assistant Professional package is available on the X1, which includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control, and hands-free driving courtesy Extended Traffic Jam Assistant.