Audi Q3 vs BMW X1 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA

Looking to acquire a high-end used subcompact SUV? Numerous models fall into this category, such as the BMW X1, Audi Q3, or the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Distinguishing between these 3 luxury utility vehicles is quite challenging as they are all sporty models, high-end, and offer many cutting-edge technological features.

We present to you a comparison of the used Mercedes GLA, Audi Q2, and BMW X1; by comparing the different characteristics of each, it will be easier for you to choose the one that best suits your tastes, needs, and budget!

Overview

Audi Q3

On the market since the 2015 model year, the Q3 has been awarded the title of Best Luxury Subcompact SUV 2020 by Le Guide de l'auto; it repeated the feat in 2021. Offering all the refinement and performance typical of Audi, but in a more compact format, the Q3 quickly established itself in its category, and its base price, less than $40,000 for a new entry-level model, makes it a very interesting SUV.

BMW X1

The oldest model in this Audi vs. BMW vs. Mercedes comparison is the BMW X1, which debuted in 2012. As the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup, it underwent a slight redesign in 2020 and still remains synonymous with elegance and sportiness. Even after 10 years on the market, its popularity shows no signs of waning, quite the opposite!

Mercedes-Benz GLA

As the entry-level SUV from Mercedes-Benz, the GLA debuted alongside the Q3 in 2015, thereby enhancing the range of models in this category. Its spacious interior and elegant silhouette are just a few of its assets.

Comparison of Powertrains

Under their hood, you'll find powerful engines offering similar horsepower:

• •Audi Q3: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with 228 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system; (base version with 184 hp)
• •BMW X1: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with 228 horsepower, featuring an 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive system;
• •Mercedes-Benz GLA: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with 221 horsepower, equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Note that Mercedes also offers AMG variants of its GLA, boosting its power to 302 and 382 horsepower (AMG 35 and AMG 45), versions not found on the Audi and BMW side (except for the M Sport group).

In terms of fuel efficiency, these 3 models are impressive performers! The Audi Q3 has a city/highway fuel consumption of 11.7/8.4 L/100 km; for the BMW X1, it's 10.3/7.7 L/100 km, similar to the Mercedes GLA, at 10.1/7.6 L/100 km (11.6/8.8 L/100 km for the 382 horsepower version).

Towing Capacity

When comparing the towing capacities of the GLA, Q3, and X1, it becomes clear that the Audi SUV has a solid advantage over its rivals. While it's not recommended to tow with the Mercedes-Benz and BMW SUVs, the Audi Q3 has a towing capacity of up to 1800 pounds.

Design and Dimension Comparison

When it comes to interior and exterior design, these 3 SUVs have nothing to envy from their rivals. Indeed, all three have an attractive and dynamic silhouette, which speaks volumes about their performance.

However, the Q3 displays a more sharp front end and lines, while the X1 and GLA offer slightly more restrained and elegant lines; it's all a matter of taste!

As for dimensions, they are also quite similar from one vehicle to another:

Here, we can see that BMW has the advantage in terms of available cargo volume, while the Mercedes GLA offers a smaller trunk dimension compared to the Q3 and X1; the Audi Q3, on the other hand, offers more generous dimensions and is slightly more spacious than the other two models.

However, the GLA has a longer wheelbase than both the X1 and Q3.

As for the Audi Q3, it offers an inviting, spacious interior filled with amenities and technologies. Among these, depending on the model year:

• •Audi's virtual cockpit;
• •Apple CarPlay/Android Auto;
• •Navigation;
• •Driving aids such as collision alert, angle detection, and autonomous emergency braking, among others.

Finally, the Mercedes GLA offers plenty of space for occupants, a high-quality infotainment system, ambient lighting, and features such as a standard sunroof—depending on the model year—a large display screen, and a sporty-looking cabin if you opt for the AMG version.

Conclusion

So, Mercedes, BMW, or Audi? Regardless of the SUV you choose, you'll get a high-performing model, of quality, filled with technologies and amenities.

To learn more about our Audi vs BMW vs Mercedes comparison, about the reputation of these three models, or to schedule a test drive of one of our used SUVs, visit one of Occasion Beaucage's dealerships today!