- Exterior Design: Sporty Bimmer Narrowly Beats GLA 35
- Performance: Closely Matched, But The Merc Is (Slightly) Quicker
- Interior And Cargo: Traditional BMW Cabin Or Baroque Mercedes Design?
- Pricing And Verdict: So Closely Matched, It’s Tough To Choose
They're more closely matched than you'd think, so choosing between the two is a tough job.
Here's the scenario. You've got around $50,000 to spend on a small premium crossover, but you're not willing to sacrifice style, performance, or excitement. As far as we can tell, there are only two options to choose from: the all-new BMW X1 M35i and the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.
On the surface, these little Germans are deadly rivals. But, on closer inspection, they've got plenty in common. Both employ a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Both offer up more than 300 horsepower. Both have all-wheel drive, and both will put a smile on your face during the school run. But which compact crossover should you spend your hard-earned cash on? Is it the newer BMW or the familiar Benz? Let's find out in this comparison.
Exterior Design: Sporty Bimmer Narrowly Beats GLA 35
In terms of design, BMW and Mercedes have both revealed their fair share of, let's say, controversially styled vehicles in recent months. However, the new X1 is a rather handsome little crossover that, thankfully, is devoid of too many silly styling gimmicks and wildly oversized grilles.
As such, it's a great place to start, and BMW's M division has tarted it up with a bevy of styling add-ons. Up front, there's a more aggressive front bumper design, with the sporting persona further accentuated by the M-inspired vertical bars in the kidney grilles. Subtle side skirts and a more athletic rear fascia round off the changes nicely. The rather small quad exhaust tips won't be to everyone's taste. 19-inch wheels are standard, while larger 20s can be specified at extra cost.
It seems as if Mercedes-AMG knew the X1 M35i was on the way, as it recently blessed the GLA 35 with a subtle facelift. It's less aggressive than the Bimmer, but that could be just what some are looking for. There's a new radiator grille with vertical louvers, a refreshed bumper, and prominent power bulges on the hood. The only other change is new light signatures, front and rear. Customers receive 18-inch wheels as standard, but 20-inch items are optional.
Overall, both are inoffensive and will appeal to their target markets. But if it were our money, the BMW gets the nod on the design front.
Performance: Closely Matched, But The Merc Is (Slightly) Quicker
As mentioned, both models employ a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The BMW produces 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, making it slightly more powerful than the AMG, which wades into battle with 10 fewer horses and the same amount of torque.
Despite this minor deficit, Mercedes claims the GLA 35 can sprint to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The BMW hits the same benchmark speed just 0.1 seconds later. That said, both outfits are known for underquoting their figures. Both crossovers will charge up to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
For 2024, Mercedes-AMG has added a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to the 35 engine, providing the crossover with a 13 hp boost under certain conditions. The Stuttgart-based automaker claims this also improves fuel economy.
The X1 M35i channels power to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch Steptronic transmission and includes M Sport Boost, which automatically places the vehicle in its sportiest setting when you hold down on the left shift paddle. There's also a mechanical limited-slip differential and Adaptive M suspension, among other things, which should make it rather fun to drive. The GLA 35 uses an eight-speed dual-clutch 'box, directing power to the front and rear axles in a similar front-biased manner to the X1.
It remains to be seen which one is more enjoyable to pilot, but history shows that BMW makes a more dynamic SUV. The Benz is quicker on paper, though.
Interior And Cargo: Traditional BMW Cabin Or Baroque Mercedes Design?
Both Mercedes and BMW have created a tasteful and contemporary cabin environment. The X1 takes a more conservative and traditional approach, with sophisticated lines, quality materials, and a sprinkle of M Performance flair.
M35i models receive M pedals and door sills, along with a leather-trimmed M steering wheel. Sports seats with Alcantara/Sensatec trim are standard, but buyers can select power-adjustable M Sport seats with illuminated M logos on the headrest. Standard equipment is generous and includes dual-zone climate control, a Harmon Kardon sound system, and BMW's new iDrive with Operating System 9.
The GLA 35 also receives Mercedes' latest MBUX system, with all 2024 models receiving wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at no cost. There's a new Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel with integrated AMG Drive Unit switches, along with redesigned sports seats with new upholstery color options.
With both rows of seating in place, the BMW's 25.7 cubic feet of packing space dwarfs the Merc's 15.4 ft3. The tables turn when the rear bench tumbles, with the GLA 35 providing 50.5 ft3 of utility space compared to the X1 M35i's 46.9 ft3.
Pricing And Verdict: So Closely Matched, It’s Tough To Choose
BMW has confirmed the X1 M35i will have a base MSRP of $49,900 (excluding destination). The M35i derivative is priced competitively, with a mere $400 premium above the pre-facelift GLA 35.
Mercedes is yet to reveal pricing for the MY2024 GLA 35, but the outgoing 2023 model is priced at $49,500 before options. We're guessing the updated variant will receive a marginal price hike, possibly pushing the base MSRP above the $50,000 mark. This won't matter much to buyers, who will probably tack a few thousand dollars worth of options to the Bimmer or the AMG.
The BMW and Mercedes are closely matched in just about every area, making it difficult to choose between the two. It will probably come down to personal preference. The AMG will likely appeal to those who desire a simpler design, while the M35i will attract consumers looking for a sharp way of taking the kids to school.
We look forward to driving both back to back to see which German performance crossover takes the crown.
Keyword: Sporty Crossover Comparison: BMW X1 M35i Vs. Mercedes-AMG GLA 35