BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA

BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA Engine Power

A powerful engine is something many Alabama drivers crave from their luxury vehicles, and the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA both deliver here. Both models have a performance-driven line that catapults your engine output to 382 horsepower. You'll get this kind of performance with the M Series of the BMW and with the AMG trim of the Mercedes-Benz.

How about their standard engines, though? What kind of power do these SUVs get you right out of the gate? You can see that in the table below:

Despite both coming standard with a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 engine, the twin-turbocharger in the BMW X3 allows it to generate 248 horsepower. Compare this to just 221 horsepower from the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Cabin Comforts and Space

A comfortable cabin is a necessity when you're considering the next luxury SUV you're going to drive. That's why we love that both the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA offer comfort features that are sure to make you feel first-class.

For starters, they both have available heated seats to help you warm up on chilly mornings or to simply soothe sore muscles while you drive. Standard driver lumbar support can also help to prevent fatigue during long journeys.

They're both 2-row SUVs with room for five passengers in their cabins. When you're packing up the trunk, though, you'll probably be able to pack more heavily in the BMW, as you can see from the cargo measurements:

With a much smaller cargo space, the Mercedes-Benz may unfortunately require you to leave a few things behind the next time you pack your family's suitcases for a week away.

Connectivity On-Demand in BMW and Mercedes-Benz SUVs

When you hit the road in either your BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLA, you'll have the tools you need to stay connected. Both SUVs offer Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity, which allows you to use some of your favorite smartphone apps on the go.

Apps you can use include navigation, phone, internet radio streaming, audiobooks, and podcasts. You can access these apps through your vehicle's touchscreen display in the center stack. Both the BMW and Mercedes-Benz come with a 10.25-inch touchscreen. However, only the BMW X3 makes this feature standard on every trim level.

Instead, the Mercedes-Benz GLA comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen. The 10.25-inch screen is only available with a trim level upgrade.