Luxury comes in all shapes and sizes, including compact SUVs. The 2021 BMW X1 and 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA both offer an iconic design, convenient cargo room, and lots of comfortable amenities. Which one of these German luxury SUVs has what you're looking for?

To help drivers in Chattanooga, Hixson, and Cleveland, TN, decide, BMW of Chattanooga looked at what they have to offer in this 2021 BMW X1 vs. 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA comparison.

Performance Specs

The BMX X1 is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that offers a capable and exciting drive. It's available with xDrive all-wheel (AWD) and works with a versatile 8-speed automatic transmission. It also includes Sport and Manual modes, so you can maximize your power or take control of the gears.

A turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine also comes standard in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA. It also includes an 8-speed automatic and offers AWD. While these two engines offer a similar performance, the BMW has the edge in both overall power and acceleration:

 

BMW X1

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Horsepower

228 horsepower

221 horsepower

Torque

258 lb-ft of torque

258 lb-ft of torque

0 to 60 MPH

6.3 seconds

6.6 seconds

Each SUV also offers impressive fuel economy. While their MPG ratings are similar, the BMW can keep the drive going a little longer before it needs to stop and fill up. It features a 16.1-gallon gas tank, while the Mercedes-Benz has a small 12.7-gallon tank.

Interior Dimensions & Amenities

Whether you choose the 2021 BMW X1 or the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA, you'll be in for a classy and comfortable drive. They both offer premium materials, including leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

They also help you relax, with features like heated and power-adjustable front seats. Plus, both SUVs put technology at your fingertips. Each dashboard includes a high-tech screen that can sync up with your smartphone, so you can stream music, stay in touch, and see where you're going.

The right SUV should include enough space, though. The BMW X1 does just that. It accommodates taller riders with 41.9 inches of headroom up front and 39.4 inches of rear headroom. On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz is a little cramped, with only 39 inches of front headroom and 38.1 inches in the back.

You'll also find that the BMW gives you more storage space. From its large trunk to the amount of room it offers with the back seats folded down, the Bavarian SUV can carry a lot more cargo:

 

BMW X1

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Maximum Cargo Room

58.7 cubic feet

50.5 cubic feet

Trunk Space

27.1 cubic feet

15.4 cubic feet
 

Safety Features

Underneath all its luxury, the 2021 BMW X1 is prepared to keep you safe. For starters, it keeps you in control with xDrive AWD. It also helps prevent accidents with an Active Driving Assistant. This system comes standard and includes intelligent safety features, such as:

  • Frontal Collision Warning
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Speed Limit Info

You'll be well-protected if you're ever in an accident, too. The BMW X1 includes eight airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners and automatic-locking retractors on all passenger safety belts.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA also offers AWD, but it doesn't include as much protection. For example, it only has seven airbags and safety features like a Lane Departure Warning don't come standard.

Test Drive the Ultimate Compact SUV

With more power, cargo room, and standard safety features, the BMW X1 is the optimal compact SUV for drivers in Chattanooga, Hixson, and Cleveland, TN.

Contact us or visit BMW of Chattanooga to learn more about our 2021 BMW X1 vs. 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA comparison and take a test drive.

Make an Inquiry

* Indicates a required field

BMW of Chattanooga
A BMW M Certified Dealer Certified Center

6806 East Brainerd Road
Directions Chattanooga, TN 37421

  • Contact Us: (855) 674-7371

Hours

  • Monday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Tuesday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Wednesday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Thursday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Friday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Saturday 9 AM - 6 PM
  • Sunday Closed