2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class vs 2026 BMW X2
Comparison Overview
The most significant measurable difference between the 2026 BMW X2 and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is cargo volume, where the X2 offers 25.3 cubic feet compared to the GLA-Class's 15.4 cubic feet—a substantial 9.9 cubic foot advantage. Performance metrics also diverge; the X2 produces 241 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the GLA-Class's 221 hp and 258 lb-ft. Despite the power deficit, the GLA-Class edges out slightly in efficiency, achieving 29 combined MPG versus the X2's 28 combined MPG. However, the X2 incorporates standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) against the GLA-Class's standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD). Priced slightly lower at $43,000 versus $44,300, the GLA-Class holds an MSRP advantage, though both require premium unleaded fuel. The X2 is also physically larger overall, measuring 179.3 inches in length compared to the GLA’s 173.6 inches.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
The GLA-Class wins for commuting due to its superior combined fuel economy of 29 MPG compared to the X2's 28 MPG.
2026 BMW X2
The 2026 BMW X2 is the clear winner for families, offering 25.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity versus the GLA-Class’s 15.4 cubic feet.
2026 BMW X2
The X2 appeals more to driving enthusiasts with higher output, delivering 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than the GLA-Class.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
The GLA-Class presents better initial value, costing $1,300 less ($43,000 vs $44,300) while offering marginally better MPG.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class if...
- You prioritize a lower initial Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $43,000.
- Maximum fuel efficiency is critical, as the GLA-Class achieves 29 combined MPG.
- You prefer the marginally lower overall exterior dimensions, with a length of 173.6 inches.
Choose the BMW X2 if...
- Maximum utility is required, thanks to the segment-leading 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
- You desire greater powertrain performance, specifically the 295 lb-ft of torque.
- All-wheel drive capability is a necessary prerequisite for your driving conditions.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | BMW X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 173.6" | 179.3" |
| Width | 72.2" | 72.6" |
| Height | 63.5" | 62.6" |
| Wheelbase | 107.4" | 106.0" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | — |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Brake Drying | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | — |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | ✓ | — |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | — | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | — | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | — | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | — | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | gas |
| Horsepower | 221 hp @ 5500 rpm | 241 hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed automated manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | — | Limited Slip |
| Hill Descent Control | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (recommended) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 26/34 MPG | 24/33 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 29 MPG | 28 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 351.0/459.0 mi. | 343.2/471.9 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.5 gal. | 14.3 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Assisted Parking Assist | ✓ | — |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | — |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Parking Assist | — | ✓ |
| Extended Cabin Heating | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.25 in | 10.7 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 6 months | 12 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.0 in. | 40.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.0 in. | 40.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.9 in. | 56.1 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | — |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 2 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | — |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | — |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | 3 | — |
| Driver Seat Heating | — | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | — | Multi-level |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.1 in. | 37.1 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.0 in. | 36.7 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.8 in. | 55.1 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | — |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 7.5 in | 19 x 8.0 in |
| Tire Size | 235/55R18 | 245/45R H |
| Run Flat Tires | ✓ | — |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
| Tire Type | — | All Season |
Suspension
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 8 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and 2026 BMW X2.
Which crossover is more powerful: the 2025 GLA-Class or the 2026 X2?
The 2026 BMW X2 is demonstrably more powerful, producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This output exceeds the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, which is rated at 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
What is the fuel requirement difference between the two vehicles?
Both vehicles mandate premium unleaded fuel for optimal performance. However, the GLA-Class officially requires it, whereas the X2 only recommends it, suggesting a slight operational flexibility in fueling choices for the BMW.
Is the increased size of the BMW X2 reflected in its efficiency metrics?
Yes, the physically larger X2 (179.3 inches long) is slightly less efficient, achieving 28 combined MPG. The smaller GLA-Class (173.6 inches long) manages 29 combined MPG.
How significant is the cargo capacity difference when comparing the X2 to the GLA-Class?
The difference is substantial: the 2026 BMW X2 offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, while the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class provides only 15.4 cubic feet. This nearly 10 cubic foot advantage favors the X2 for practicality.
Do the drivetrains differ between the base models presented?
Yes, the core drive types are fundamentally different. The standard 2025 GLA-Class is Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), while the base 2026 X2 configuration is All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
More Mid-Range SUVs ($30k-$50k)
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool