You haven’t completed your luxury compact SUV search until you fully explore the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1. Drivers who know sophisticated cabin design, next-gen assistance features, and elevated engine performance when they see them will love to get these two high-class models out on the open road – especially the sizzling new GLA 250 with its sleek interior, refreshed profile, and hybrid-assist powertrain.
If you’re dissatisfied with the compact luxury SUV results you’ve found so far, take a closer look at the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1 features, specs, dimensions, and lease offers. At Mercedes-Benz of Atlanta South, you’ll find the elevated trims, luxurious packages, and competitive financing you need, all rolled into one elegant Mercedes-Benz SUV package.
With near-identical price points and the same EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25/34 MPG (City/Highway),1,2 the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and the BMW X1 specs seem quite similar. Yet a closer comparison of the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1 engine options highlights the fact that you get more choice for your money with the Mercedes-Benz SUV.
This 2024 Mercedes-Benz build comes in two powerful iterations: the entry-level GLA 250 and the top-spec GLA 250 4MATIC®. The GLA 250 edition boasts FWD capability for top-notch city and highway commuting, while the 4MATIC® variant adds – you guessed it – 4MATIC® AWD and a faster 0-60 speed. Choose either Mercedes-Benz SUV to harness the mild-hybrid power of a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder that outputs 258 pound-feet of torque.
The 2024 BMW X1 might match the GLA 250 MPG, but it’s available in only one configuration: the BMW X1 xDrive28i, which is a rollover model from 2023. This BMW SUV has a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that generates 295 pound-feet of torque. This spec is slightly higher than the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, but keep in mind that engine power isn’t everything. The eight-speed Mercedes-Benz transmission gives you a smoother shift than the seven-speed BMW gearbox, as well as a smaller turning circle to exit tight parking spaces and a multilink rear suspension to cushion your ride.
Inject even more power into your drive in a Mercedes-AMG® GLA 35, a high-powered SUV that produces 302 horsepower and a 5.1-second 0-60. In comparison, if you notch up to the most powerful BMW X1 M35i SUV, you’ll gain a slower 5.2-second 0-60 and identical engine torque.
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 | 2024 BMW X1 xDrive28i | |
|---|---|---|
| Model Variants | 2 | 1 |
| Engine | 2.0L Inline 4-Cyl Mild-Hybrid | 2.0L Turbo Inline 4-Cyl |
| Horsepower | 221 | 241 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / 4MATIC® AWD | AWD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City/Hwy) | 25/34 MPG1 – GLA 250 24/32 MPG1 – GLA 250 4MATIC® |
25/34 MPG2 |
| Front/Rear Legroom | 41 / 38 in | 40.4 / 37 in |
| Max Cargo Volume | 50.5 cu ft | 46.877 cu ft |
| Shop Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 |
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 hits the market with a new sense of vitality and style. Its reimagined exterior is confident and contoured with aluminum roof rails for extra storage capability. Its cabin is tech-forward and thoughtful, sporting dual 10.25-inch digital displays, “Hey Mercedes” voice activation, Remote Start, a HANDS-FREE ACCESS power liftgate, and inductive wireless charging and NFC pairing.
The GLA 250 also has standard elegant MB-Tex or optional leather upholstery, Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, 64-color LED ambient lighting, and an available panorama roof. The GLA 250 4MATIC® model adds optional Mercedes-AMG® wheels, aluminum shift paddles, and brushed stainless steel pedals.
Scroll through the standard and available safety features of the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1, and you’ll find that the new GLA 250 is brimming with driver assistance. Enjoy Mercedes-Benz safety features in the form of PARKTRONIC® with Active Parking Assist, Downhill Speed Regulation, Blind Spot Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST®, Active Brake Assist, and available DISTRONIC® Adaptive Cruise Control.
Upholstered in its signature Veganza faux leather, the new BMW X1 cabin has ambient lighting, a HiFi Sound System, and dual instrument and information displays that measure a bit over 10 inches. Though you’ll also find a power liftgate in the BMW X1, you won’t have hands-free access like the Mercedes-Benz SUV offers.
The BMW X1 cabin also comes with multi-zone climate control, a three-spoke Sport steering wheel, and a BMW Operating System 9 for navigation and media. For some reason, however, the BMW automaker won’t reveal how many USB ports you’ll find for device charging (the Mercedes-Benz SUV has five), and it might not offer wireless phone charging like the GLA 250 does.
Though the BMW model comes equipped with expected safety systems like Parking Assistant, a rear-view camera, and an Acoustic Safety Belt Warning, it is lacking in enhanced safety features when compared to the Mercedes-Benz model.
A high-end compact SUV can still be comfortable and spacious, and a peek inside the new Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1 interior room reveals which compact luxury SUV gives you more room: the GLA 250. This 2024 Mercedes-Benz SUV gives front and backseat passengers more legroom than the BMW X1, which is the true mark of a luxurious cabin.
With seating for five and up to 50.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo storage, the new GLA 250 can function as a daily driver just as easily as it can serve as a weekend mover or DIY project hauler. The 2024 BMW X1 offers a smaller 46.877 cubic feet of maximum trunk space, which is quite a loss when you’re trying to load large or multiple items into your vehicle.
Are you ready to crown a winner in this Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1 comparison? If you need a compact SUV that delivers across the board, you want an attractive lease deal on the 2024 GLA 250. Take advantage of our current new vehicle specials to finance the GLA 250 or one of our other stunning Mercedes-Benz SUVs for sale.
Our finance department can provide support, answer questions, and offer a worry-free auto-shopping experience. Stop by today to discuss current pricing and explore the advantages of leasing and buying, or browse our new Mercedes-Benz vehicles for sale now to find your favorite ahead of time!
If you’re certain that a luxury SUV is in your future but you’d prefer an older model, take a spin through our pre-owned inventory. A late-model Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 is a great way to get behind the wheel of a sophisticated and turbocharged SUV without paying for the latest updates. The bottom line is that no matter your model year, trim, features, or color preference, our team is here to help you thrive.
Comparing Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 vs. BMW X1 dimensions highlights the fact that, although the BMW SUV is 3.8 inches longer, its front and rear legroom is noticeably shorter. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 also offers a much larger 50.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space (compared to the BMW X1 max cargo area of 46.877 cubic feet), so you can maximize its storage potential.
While these two luxury crossover SUVs for sale offer very similar turbocharged engines, you’re likely more interested in comfort and performance. The GLA 250 offers more composure and steering response, as well as a high-end cabin with elevated technology. The eight-speed transmission of the GLA 250 also gives you smooth and refined acceleration, while the seven-speed BMW might experience a turbo lag in comparison.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 typically competes with rivals like the BMW X1, the Audi Q3, the Lexus NX, or the INFINITI QX50. Industry experts applaud the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 refresh for its composed handling, modern styling, and handsome interior. Stop by our showroom to explore the new GLA 250 SUV in person and see why it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite!
1EPA-estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated MPG to the estimated MPG of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.
2Preliminary 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.
