Audi A3 Sportback VS Mercedes GLA – Specs, Efficiency & Price Comparison

Which model is the better choice – the Audi A3 Sportback or the Mercedes GLA? We compare performance (400 HP vs 421 HP), boot capacity (380 L vs 435 L), efficiency (0.30 L vs 1 L), and of course, the price (26800 £ vs 38400 £).
Find out now which car fits your needs better!

The Audi A3 Sportback (Hatchback) is powered by a Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel or Plugin Hybrid engine and comes with a Manuel or Automatic transmission. In comparison, the Mercedes GLA (SUV) features a Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid or Petrol engine and a Automatic gearbox.

When it comes to boot capacity, the Audi A3 Sportback offers 380 L, while the Mercedes GLA provides 435 L – depending on what matters most to you. If you’re looking for more power, you’ll need to decide whether the 400 HP of the Audi A3 Sportback or the 421 HP of the Mercedes GLA suits your needs better.

There are also differences in efficiency: 0.30 L vs 1 L. In terms of price, the Audi A3 Sportback starts at 26800 £, while the Mercedes GLA is available from 38400 £.

Compare all the key specs now and find out which model fits your lifestyle best!

In the competitive compact luxury segment, the Audi A3 Sportback and the Mercedes GLA stand out with their stylish designs and premium features. The A3 Sportback offers a more engaging driving experience, paired with cutting-edge tech, while the GLA provides a spacious interior and a higher ride height, appealing to those who prioritize versatility. Ultimately, the choice between these two models depends on whether you seek a sportier aesthetic or the practicality of a crossover.

Audi A3 Sportback

The Audi A3 Sportback seamlessly blends style and practicality, making it an ideal choice for those who seek both sophistication and functionality. With its sleek lines and premium interior, the A3 Sportback offers a driving experience that is both dynamic and comfortable. Additionally, its advanced technology and safety features ensure that every journey is as enjoyable as it is secure.

details

@ audi-mediacenter.com

@ audi-mediacenter.com

@ audi-mediacenter.com

@ audi-mediacenter.com

@ audi-mediacenter.com

@ audi-mediacenter.com

Mercedes GLA

The Mercedes-Benz GLA presents itself as a compact yet stylish option in the luxury SUV market. Its interior offers a blend of sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology, providing a comfortable and connected driving experience. The GLA's agile handling and dynamic performance make it well-suited for both urban environments and longer journeys.

details

@ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

@ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

@ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

@ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

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.

Design and Dimensions

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.

Powertrain and Performance

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.

Efficiency and Sustainability

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.

Interior Technology and Features

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.

Safety and Driver Assistance

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.

Conclusion

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.

Audi A3 Sportback

Mercedes GLA

Costs and Consumption
Price 26800 - 56600 £	Price 38400 - 75300 £
Consumption L/100km 0.3 - 9.3 L	Consumption L/100km 1 - 9.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km -	Consumption kWh/100km -
Electric Range 135 - 143 km	Electric Range 70 - 74 km
Battery Capacity 19.70 kWh	Battery Capacity 12.90 kWh
co2 6 - 211 g/km	co2 23 - 216 g/km
Fuel tank capacity 40 - 55 L	Fuel tank capacity 35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type Hatchback	Body Type SUV
Seats 5	Seats 5
Doors 5	Doors 5
Curb weight 1360 - 1685 kg	Curb weight 1570 - 1810 kg
Trunk capacity 280 - 380 L	Trunk capacity 385 - 435 L
Length 4352 - 4381 mm	Length 4412 - 4443 mm
Width 1816 - 1851 mm	Width 1834 - 1849 mm
Height 1415 - 1470 mm	Height 1590 - 1616 mm
Payload 410 - 480 kg	Payload 480 - 500 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid	Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol
Transmission Manuel, Automatic	Transmission Automatic
Transmission Detail Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic	Transmission Detail Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive	Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP 116 - 400 HP	Power HP 116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h 3.8 - 10.1 s	Acceleration 0-100km/h 4.3 - 11 s
Max Speed 205 - 250 km/h	Max Speed 190 - 270 km/h
Torque 220 - 500 Nm	Torque 230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders 4 - 5	Number of Cylinders 4
Power kW 85 - 294 kW	Power kW 85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity 1498 - 2480 cm3	Engine capacity 1332 - 1991 cm3

General
Model Year 2024	Model Year 2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class D, G, B	CO2 Efficiency Class E, F, B, G
Brand Audi	Brand Mercedes-Benz

Audi A3 Sportback

Audi A3 Sportback: A Blend of Performance and Innovation

The Audi A3 Sportback has continually established itself as a standout model in the compact car segment, embodying elegance, performance, and cutting-edge technology. With its sleek design and advanced engineering, it appeals to drivers seeking both practicality and an exhilarating driving experience.

Engine Options and Performance

The A3 Sportback boasts a versatile lineup of engines, featuring petrol, mild-hybrid, and diesel variants. Power outputs range from 116 PS to a robust 400 PS in the high-performance RS3 variant. This extensive range of engines ensures that there is a model to suit every driver’s needs, whether for daily commuting or spirited driving.

The A3 Sportback's efficient diesel engines are noteworthy, with consumption figures as low as 4.8 L/100 km, making them a fantastic choice for those looking to save on fuel costs without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, the petrol engines demonstrate a perfect balance between power and efficiency, thanks to modern technologies like turbocharging and direct injection.

Hybrid Technology

Innovations in hybrid technology are another highlight of the A3 Sportback. The mild-hybrid variants utilise a belt-driven starter-generator and a compact lithium-ion battery, enabling seamless energy recovery during braking. This technology enhances fuel efficiency, particularly in urban settings, contributing to reduced CO2 emissions and lower running costs.

Transmission and Handling

The A3 Sportback is available with both manual and automatic transmission options, including Audi's renowned S tronic dual-clutch system. This system offers lightning-fast gear changes and an engaging driving experience. The choice between front-wheel drive and the quattro all-wheel-drive system further enhances the appeal, providing excellent traction and stability across various driving conditions.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Audi A3 Sportback does not disappoint. The interior combines high-quality materials with a driver-focused layout, ensuring comfort for all occupants. With generous space for passengers and luggage, it remains practical for everyday use. The intuitive MMI infotainment system is equipped with features such as smartphone integration, advanced navigation options, and a premium sound system, making every journey enjoyable.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the A3 Sportback, which features an array of driver assistance systems designed to enhance safety and convenience. From adaptive cruise control to lane-keeping assistance, these technologies not only assist drivers but also help in averting potential hazards on the road. The vehicle’s robust build and advanced airbag systems further ensure the protection of its occupants.

Conclusion

The Audi A3 Sportback continues to impress with its combination of dynamic performance, innovative technology, and luxurious comfort. With a range of powertrains and features that cater to diverse needs, it stands as a testament to Audi's commitment to automotive excellence. For anyone in the market for a premium compact car, the A3 Sportback remains a top contender, blending style, substance, and sustainability effortlessly.

Mercedes GLA

Introducing the Mercedes-Benz GLA: A Compact SUV with Big Ambitions

Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with luxury, performance, and innovation. The latest GLA model carries forth this tradition by presenting a compact SUV that effortlessly combines style and sophistication with cutting-edge technology. Designed to cater to both urban and adventurous lifestyles, the GLA is a versatile powerhouse that offers an enticing array of options to satisfy diverse driving preferences.

Performance and Powertrains

The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers an extensive range of powertrains that cater to every driving need, from eco-conscious choices to high-performance engines. On one end of the spectrum, you have the efficient diesel engines, such as the GLA 180 d, delivering 116 PS with a consumption of just 5.4 L/100km. For those seeking more power, the petrol variants like the GLA 250 with 238 PS provide a thrilling drive with its all-wheel-drive system and mild-hybrid configuration.

The pièce de résistance in terms of performance is the GLA 45 S AMG, boasting an impressive 421 PS and capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in a mere 4.3 seconds. This model epitomises AMG engineering prowess, delivering exhilarating performance with the refined comfort expected from a Mercedes-Benz.

Innovative Technology

The GLA is not just about power; it's a showcase of modern automotive innovation. Equipped as standard with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), the system provides intuitive technology that includes touch control and intelligent voice recognition. With an option to include augmented reality navigation, staying on track has never been more futuristic.

Safety technologies are at the forefront with systems like Active Brake Assist and optional driving assistance packages, ensuring peace of mind for every journey. Additionally, the vehicle's seamless integration with smartphone services through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay makes connectivity both practical and easy.

Design and Comfort

Mercedes-Benz is known for its luxurious interiors, and the GLA is no exception. The attention to detail is apparent with quality materials throughout and ergonomic seating designed to offer utmost comfort. With a versatile interior arrangement and a boot space ranging from 385 to 435 litres, the GLA offers practicality without compromising on passenger comfort.

The exterior design is equally compelling, featuring sleek lines and an athletic stance. Aerodynamic efficiency is achieved without detracting from the distinctive bold character that makes the GLA stand out in its segment.

Efficiency and Sustainability

In a world where efficiency and environmental responsibility are increasingly important, the GLA 250 e Plug-in Hybrid sets a benchmark. With its combination of petrol and electric motors, it delivers 218 PS while maintaining a remarkably low fuel consumption of just 1.1 L/100km and an electric range of up to 70 km, ideal for city commuters prioritising green driving.

The advanced hybrid system combined with Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to reducing emissions places the GLA at the forefront of sustainable automotive technology.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Offering

In the GLA, Mercedes-Benz offers a compact SUV that doesn't compromise on its promise of luxury and cutting-edge technology. Whether you are looking for sporty dynamics, eco-friendly options, or a blend of both, the GLA presents a compelling package in the market. It caters to a wide audience with varying needs, proving that it truly is a versatile addition to the luxury compact SUV market.

The GLA confidently continues the legacy of Mercedes-Benz, ensuring every journey is filled with comfort, safety, and excitement.