2026 BMW X1 (left) and 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA (right) with optional features shown above.

To facilitate your decision-making process as you shop for a luxury subcompact SUV for your Madisonville commutes, the Peake BMW team is putting the 2026 BMW X1 and 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA against each other. By the end of this comparison, it will be clear to you that the BMW model comes on top!

In regards to the powertrain, the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA are set up similarly, as both vehicles come standard with 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engines. Nevertheless, the X1 proves to be stronger, outputting 247 horsepower and easily outclassing the GLA’s 221 horsepower. More muscle translates to quicker acceleration as well. While the BMW model takes 6.2 seconds1 to go from 0 to 60 MPH, it takes 6.8 seconds2 for the Mercedes-Benz SUV to achieve the same feat. As a result, merging onto Highway 1077 will feel more effortless in the former. Do you easily get nervous when rain starts pouring while you’re behind the wheel due to how slippery the roads can get? Then the peace of mind provided by the X1’s standard xDrive AWD system will be well worth it. Unfortunately, the GLA comes standard with FWD, so you’ll have to upgrade to access all-weather capability.

Setting off in the 2026 BMW X1 with nothing but your smartphone in your pocket is possible, thanks to the standard Digital Key Plus feature allowing you to lock and unlock the doors with your mobile device. A similar Digital Vehicle Key function can be used with the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA, but it’s an available feature that isn’t included in the base trim. Once you hop in the cabin of the GLA, a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen will greet you. For a larger interface, you definitely want to go with the BMW X1 with its standard 10.7-inch central information display. Looking at the Video Augmented Reality Overlay of the X1’s standard Cloud-based navigation system on this expansive screen will feel immersive, helping you get to your destination more intuitively. Meanwhile, a built-in navigation system3 is available on the GLA.

The BMW X1 offers a more performance-oriented design, easily captivating the attention of driving enthusiasts who are looking for a vehicle with a sporty aesthetic. It’s also easy to customize its exterior to your liking, as you have 18 paint color options to choose from including unique shades like Velvet Orchid II Metallic and Laguna Seca Blue. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLA’s available paint colors consist of seven commonplace monochrome and primary hues. Available wheel designs are more comparable between the two models, as they both range from 18-inch to 21-inch varieties. However, the X1 and GLA both have standard aluminum roof rails, so you’ll have access to a similar level of versatile cargo capacity when you head to Fairview-Riverside State Park. Visit our dealership during our open hours for a closer look at the BMW X1!

* The 2026 BMW X1 comes standard with xDrive AWD while the 2025 GLA comes with standard FWD.