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Audi Q2 vs Mercedes GLA comparison

Compare performance (300 HP vs 421 HP), boot space and price (24,900 £ vs 38,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q2 or Mercedes GLA?

Audi Q2 vs Mercedes GLA: Key differences

Audi Q2

4.4 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly cheaper
  • somewhat lighter
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Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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  • noticeably more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • moderately quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Q2

Overview: Audi Q2 VS Mercedes GLA

Audi Q2 VS Mercedes GLA — the Audi Q2 and the Mercedes GLA occupy the premium compact-SUV space but aim at very different priorities. The Q2 is compact, tactile and geared toward drivers who like precise steering and straightforward controls, while the GLA leans into comfort, larger screens and a calmer on-road demeanour. This comparison looks beyond specs to everyday use: how they feel in city traffic, on the motorway, and as daily practical cars. Expect clear trade-offs between the Q2’s agility and the GLA’s lounge-like comfort as the guiding theme here.

GLA

Character and driving feel

Driving character is where the split is most obvious: the Audi Q2 feels taut and focused, the Mercedes GLA easy and composed. The Q2 rewards precise inputs and cornering confidence, so drivers who enjoy a dialed-in steering response will feel at home, whereas the GLA dampens feedback in favor of a smooth, unhurried progression. That makes the Q2 feel sportier on twisty roads or tight urban manoeuvres, while the GLA invites a relaxed style that hides road imperfections and isolates occupants. Both deliver predictable behavior, but the Q2 demands a bit more engagement and the GLA gives up dynamism for serenity.

Q2

Comfort and long-distance behavior

On long journeys the Mercedes GLA shows its strengths: seats, suspension tuning and noise insulation all conspire to make extended drives less tiring. The Audi Q2’s front seats are supportive and the cabin is well sealed, but the firmer ride and smaller rear packaging mean passengers farther back will notice compromises sooner. If you regularly carry adults in the rear or do motorway miles, the GLA’s gentler damping and roomier back seat translate into fewer complaints and less fatigue. If you prefer a clearer steering feel and don’t mind a firmer ride, the Q2 still offers a composed, driver-focused long-distance experience.

GLA

Cabin feel, materials and usability

Inside, the Audi Q2 trades some glossy tech theatre for high-quality switches and a conservative layout that feels immediately familiar and durable. The Mercedes GLA goes the other way with bigger screens, ambient lighting and a more theatrical presentation that reads upscale but sometimes at the cost of fiddlier menus. Q2 buyers get straightforward ergonomics and physical controls that are easy to use without a manual, while GLA owners enjoy a modern, plush ambience that makes a strong first impression. Both cabins hide small compromises — the Q2 uses harder plastics low down, the GLA’s boot is tidy but not the class leader — so the choice is between tactile clarity and tech-forward polish.

Q2

City friendliness and daily usability

In town the Audi Q2’s compact footprint and sharp steering make it the easier car to maneuver, squeeze into tight spots and live with as a daily commuter. The Mercedes GLA’s higher seating position and driver aids take the stress out of urban driving, but its heavier feel and wider body are slightly less nimble in very tight environments. Both offer helpful parking tech and cameras, yet the Q2’s simplicity means fewer distractions, whereas the GLA’s screen-first approach rewards those who want seamless connectivity and hands-free features. If your routine is narrow streets and frequent parking, the Q2 will save time and annoyance; if you value comfort over centimetres, the GLA softens the daily grind.

GLA

Buyer fit and trade-offs before the technical deep dive

Choosing between the Audi Q2 and Mercedes GLA comes down to a series of trade-offs tied closely to how you live and what you value most. The Q2 suits buyers who prize compact agility, clear physical controls and a premium-but-practical Audi feel without needing maximum rear space or electrification. The GLA fits buyers who want a more relaxed ride, a roomier rear seat, modern infotainment and the option of electrified powertrains for lower running costs. There’s also a price and ownership angle: the Q2 tends to start lower and keeps things straightforward, while the GLA’s broader engine range and tech come with a higher headline price and richer option lists. Below you’ll find the technical comparison that explains how those practical differences are created, so you can match gearbox, drivetrain and boot trade-offs to the ownership picture that matters to you.

Frequently compared as well

Mercedes B Class
Mercedes GLA
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The Mercedes B‑Class and Mercedes GLA target buyers who want Mercedes practicality with premium touches, but they take different paths: the B‑Class is a spacious, hatchback-style people carrier while the GLA is a compact crossover with a higher ride height and sportier stance. This comparison looks …
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Q2

Costs and Efficiency:

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 Q2 is significantly cheaper – starting at 24,900 £ , while the Mercedes GLA costs 38,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 13,979 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLA uses 2.9 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Audi Q2 with 4.8 L/100km. The difference is about 1.9 L/100km.

GLA

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLA offers noticeably more power – delivering 421 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 121 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is moderately quicker – completing the sprint in 4.3 s, while the Audi Q2 takes 4.9 s. That’s about 0.6 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLA delivers slightly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm more.

Q2

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Audi Q2 is somewhat lighter – 1,330 kg compared to 1,570 kg. The difference is around 240 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLA offers only slightly more boot space – 435 L compared to 405 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.

When it comes to payload, the Audi Q2 carries barely more – 510 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 10 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLA is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £38,800
GLA

Mercedes GLA

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, Petrol
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 421 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
  • Electric Range 74 km
details
Audi Q2
Mercedes GLA

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Audi Q2

The Audi Q2 packs Audi’s premium attitude into a compact, cheeky package that turns city streets into a runway for tasteful design and clever practicality. It’s an easy car to live with thanks to an upscale cabin, composed manners and sprightly handling, and while it won’t satisfy someone chasing sports-car thrills, it’s a smart, stylish pick for buyers who want substance with a wink.

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Reviews Audi Q2

4.4 (5 Reviews)
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ribiere
13 Jul 2026, 07:51:47

I've had a Q2 TDI 116 since 2018 with 108,000 km. No engine or chassis problems. Except for weakness of the front-left tyre.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
miles
14 Feb 2026, 20:00:47

ive really enjoyed my 2 audi q2s and still looking for a match .

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Mercedes GLA

The Mercedes GLA is a compact luxury crossover that brings Mercedes-Benz's refined design and premium cabin materials into a practical, city-friendly package. It combines comfortable ride quality and intuitive tech with poised handling, making it a confident choice for everyday driving and longer journeys.

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Reviews Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
rate
Lucien
1 May 2026, 07:12:24

GLA 180 petrol. Ideal for city and highway. Very smooth and quiet. The automatic gearbox is a delight. Average consumption 6.2 L/100 km. Special edition 180 Cyber Edition, leather seats....

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Gutter
24 Feb 2026, 21:53:27

Super nimble, very impressive power from this 1,300cc mild‑hybrid engine — in town, on the road and on the motorway for this 2025 GLA 180 Style AMG... premium interior!

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
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Technology & Infotainment
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Serge
16 Jan 2026, 16:09:11

You have to compare like with like — the GLA should be compared to the Q3, not the Q2 as in your study!

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
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Audi Q2
Mercedes GLA

Costs and Consumption
Price
24,900 - 43,600 £
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 8.1 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
74 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
127 - 183 g/km
co2
66 - 216 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,330 - 1,610 kg
Curb weight
1,570 - 1,810 kg
Trunk capacity
355 - 405 L
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,794 - 1,802 mm
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
450 - 510 kg
Payload
480 - 500 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, 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 - 300 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 10.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
200 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 221 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, G
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drivetrain options does the Audi Q2 have?

The Audi Q2 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.