Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi A3 Sportback or Mercedes GLA?
In the hotly contested automotive market, the Audi A3 Sportback and Mercedes GLA stand out as two robust choices for those seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. Both vehicles have their unique attributes, catering to different driving tastes and lifestyles. In this article, we delve into a thorough comparison of these two models, highlighting their technical aspects, innovations, and overall appeal.
The Audi A3 Sportback boasts a sleek, hatchback design with contemporary lines that symbolize its sporty character. Measuring 4,353 mm in length and 1,816 mm in width, it offers a compact yet spacious feel, making it suitable for urban jungles. The vehicle stands at 1,470 mm high, perfectly balancing style and aerodynamics.
On the other hand, the Mercedes GLA presents a more robust SUV silhouette, with dimensions of 4,412 mm in length and 1,834 mm in width. Its height of 1,616 mm provides a commanding view of the road, appealing to those who prefer a taller driving position. The GLA's design reflects modern elegance, with a more rugged personality suited for both city driving and agile off-road adventures.
The Audi A3 Sportback offers a diverse lineup of powertrains that includes petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Power outputs range from 116 HP in the base model to a potent 400 HP for the high-performance variant. With impressive torque figures reaching up to 500 Nm, the A3 Sportback demonstrates thrilling acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h times as swift as 3.8 seconds for its top engine variant.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes GLA also provides a range of engine options, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variations. Power outputs range from 116 HP to an exhilarating 421 HP in its performance-focused models. The GLA can sprint from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.3 seconds, showcasing its capability to deliver exhilarating performance whenever required.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Audi A3 Sportback offers some impressive figures. The model achieves consumption rates as low as 4.8 L/100 km for certain variants, making it a standout option for eco-conscious drivers. Furthermore, the plug-in hybrid variant boasts an electric range of up to 139 km, supported by a robust battery capacity of 19.7 kWh.
The Mercedes GLA, while slightly less efficient with consumption rates starting at 5.4 L/100 km, compensates with advanced hybrid technology. Its plug-in hybrids offer an electric range of approximately 74 km, backed by a smaller battery capacity of 12.9 kWh. Together, both models represent their brands' commitment to sustainability, along with innovative technologies that enhance driving experiences while minimizing environmental impact.
The A3 Sportback's interior is characterized by a modern, minimalist approach, highlighted by the high-quality materials and advanced technology. The Virtual Cockpit fully digital instrument cluster provides customizable displays, while the intuitive MMI infotainment system ensures seamless connectivity with smartphones and other devices. With ample space for five passengers and a trunk capacity of up to 380 liters, it effortlessly combines style with practicality.
On the other hand, the GLA's cabin features a slightly more luxurious aesthetic with a focus on comfort and cutting-edge technology. The MBUX infotainment system, equipped with voice command and touch-enabled controls, makes for an interactive driving experience. With generous rear-seat space and a trunk capacity varying from 425 to 435 liters, the GLA champions versatility, appealing to those with active lifestyles.
Both the Audi A3 Sportback and Mercedes GLA are equipped with comprehensive safety and driver assistance technologies. The A3 includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-sense safety systems that help prevent accidents before they occur.
The GLA takes safety a notch higher with its array of standard and optional features. Many models are equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which includes enhanced versions of the A3's systems along with additional measures to ensure a safe drive. Both vehicles navigated Euro NCAP crash tests with high ratings, solidifying their positions as safe choices in their respective classes.
In conclusion, the Audi A3 Sportback and Mercedes GLA each present compelling cases for different drivers. The A3 Sportback appeals to enthusiasts looking for a sporty, efficient hatchback, while the GLA caters to those who desire an upscale and spacious SUV experience. With exciting performance, modern technology, and a commitment to sustainability, these vehicles represent the pinnacle of their respective brands, ensuring impressive driving experiences for years to come.
When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.
Audi A3 Sportback has a significantly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26800 £, while the Mercedes GLA costs 38800 £. That’s a price difference of around 12008 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi A3 Sportback manages with 1.10 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Mercedes GLA with 2.90 L. The difference is about 1.80 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Audi A3 Sportback performs significantly better – achieving up to 141 km, about 67 km more than the Mercedes GLA.
Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.
When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLA has a barely noticeable edge – offering 421 HP compared to 400 HP. That’s roughly 21 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A3 Sportback is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 3.80 s, while the Mercedes GLA takes 4.30 s. That’s about 0.50 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLA performs slight better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Audi A3 Sportback tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.
Both models offer the same torque – 500 Nm.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Audi A3 Sportback is to a small extent lighter – 1360 kg compared to 1570 kg. The difference is around 210 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLA offers slightly more room – 435 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 55 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLA performs a bit better – up to 1430 L, which is about 230 L more than the Audi A3 Sportback.
When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLA minimal takes the win – 500 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 20 kg.
Overall, the Audi A3 Sportback shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.
@ Audi AG
The Audi A3 Sportback wraps premium materials and crisp German design into a practical hatchback package that makes daily driving feel smart rather than showy. It’s nimble in the city, composed on longer trips, and carries just enough swagger to satisfy buyers who want quality without shouting about it.
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@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
The Mercedes GLA blends Mercedes style with compact crossover practicality, looking sharper than its size suggests while still feeling purposeful around town. Inside it serves up premium materials and tech-forward ergonomics, and the composed ride makes it an appealing pick for buyers who want luxury wrapped in a city-friendly package with a wink of adventurous spirit.
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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@ Audi AG
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
26800 - 56600 £
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Price
38800 - 75300 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L
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Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
134 - 141 km
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Electric Range
74 km
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
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co2
25 - 211 g/km
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co2
66 - 216 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
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Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1360 - 1685 kg
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Curb weight
1570 - 1810 kg
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Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
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Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
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Length
4352 - 4381 mm
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Length
4412 - 4443 mm
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Width
1816 - 1851 mm
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Width
1834 - 1849 mm
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Height
1415 - 1470 mm
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Height
1590 - 1616 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1100 - 1200 L
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Max trunk capacity
1385 - 1430 L
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Payload
410 - 480 kg
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Payload
480 - 500 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
116 - 400 HP
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Power HP
116 - 421 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
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Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
190 - 270 km/h
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Torque
220 - 500 Nm
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Torque
230 - 500 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
85 - 294 kW
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Power kW
85 - 310 kW
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Engine capacity
1498 - 2480 cm3
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Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F, G
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Brand
Audi
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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The Audi A3 Sportback is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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