Compare performance (398 HP vs 354 HP), boot space and price (51,700 £ vs 43,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X3 or Mercedes GLB?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
In the competitive world of compact luxury SUVs, the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLB stand as formidable contenders, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Both vehicles combine style, comfort, and advanced technology, but they also cater to different preferences and priorities. Let’s delve deeper into their specifications, innovations, and deciding factors to help potential buyers make an informed choice.
The BMW X3 exudes a sporty and rugged presence with its muscular build, featuring a signature kidney grille and sleek LED headlights. The interior boasts high-quality materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and ample space for five passengers. With trunk capacities ranging from 450 to 570 liters, it combines practicality with luxury, making it an appealing option for families.
On the other hand, the Mercedes GLB offers a more sophisticated design with a slightly boxier silhouette. It mirrors the brand's characteristic elegance while providing an airy and spacious cabin. The GLB is also designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, a unique selling point that makes it versatile for larger families. Its trunk capacity is also slightly higher than the X3, providing flexible storage solutions.
Under the hood, the BMW X3 showcases a variety of engine options. From a 190 HP petrol MHEV to a powerful 510 HP petrol engine, the X3 caters to a wide range of power needs. The acceleration from 0-100 km/h varies from 3.8 seconds for the high-performance variant to around 8.4 seconds for more economical models. Moreover, with a range of drivetrain options, including all-wheel drive and multiple hybrids, the X3 demonstrates versatility in performance.
Conversely, the Mercedes GLB focuses on efficiency without sacrificing performance. Engine options range from a 116 HP diesel variant to a robust 320 HP petrol engine. With its peak acceleration times from 5.5 to 10.3 seconds, it also offers an admirable driving experience. The GLB features a dual-clutch automatic transmission for seamless gear shifts, differentiating it in driving dynamics compared to the BMW's automatic gearbox.
Both models put a strong emphasis on technology. The BMW X3 is equipped with the latest iDrive system, offering a digital cockpit, navigation, and connectivity options backed by an intuitive interface. Its optional features include a premium audio system and advanced driver-assistance systems, catering to safety and convenience.
The Mercedes GLB boasts the MBUX infotainment system, which utilizes voice commands and advanced AI for an engaging user experience. It also offers features like augmented reality navigation, enhancing the driving experience with interactive overlays on the display. This focus on technology plays a significant role in the appeal of both vehicles.
When comparing fuel consumption, the BMW X3 presents a favorable range with figures as low as 2.1 L/100 km for hybrid models, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. However, its CO2 emissions vary, with some models reaching up to 246 g/km depending on the engine variant.
The Mercedes GLB, while not as low as the X3, holds its ground with a consumption range starting from 5.6 L/100 km for more efficient options. Its CO2 emissions also reflect a commitment to environmental standards, ranging up to 204 g/km.
Choosing between the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLB ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The X3 appeals to those seeking a sporty, performance-oriented SUV, while the GLB is tailored for families requiring versatility and comfort. Both brands offer innovative features and quality craftsmanship, ensuring that either vehicle will provide an exceptional driving experience.
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.
Mercedes GLB is a bit cheaper – starting at 43,200 £ , while the BMW X3 costs 51,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,488 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW X3 uses 2.8 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Mercedes GLB with 5.7 L/100km. The difference is about 2.9 L/100km.
As for electric range, the Mercedes GLB offers considerably more range – reaching up to 631 km, about 543 km more than the BMW X3.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the BMW X3 offers somewhat more power – delivering 398 HP compared to 354 HP. That’s roughly 44 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X3 is moderately quicker – completing the sprint in 4.6 s, while the Mercedes GLB takes 5.5 s. That’s about 0.9 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW X3 delivers visibly more torque with 670 Nm compared to 515 Nm. That’s about 155 Nm more.
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 terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLB is very slightly lighter – 1,840 kg compared to 1,930 kg. The difference is around 90 kg.
Looking at boot space, the BMW X3 offers only slightly more boot space – 570 L compared to 540 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.
When it comes to payload, the BMW X3 carries moderately more – 570 kg compared to 505 kg. That’s a difference of about 65 kg.
The BMW X3 leads convincingly 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.
The BMW X3 mixes Bavarian poise with everyday practicality, delivering a composed ride and a cabin that feels both premium and lived-in. It’s the sort of SUV that lets you enjoy sporty handling without sacrificing family-friendly space, so you get fun and sense in one neat package.
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The Mercedes GLB is a practical compact SUV that mixes boxy, family-friendly space with premium German polish, making it an appealing choice for buyers who want usefulness without pretension. It drives with a confident, composed feel and somehow manages to look both rugged and refined — the grown-up SUV that still likes to have fun.
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Costs and Consumption |
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|---|---|
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Price
51,700 - 73,000 £
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Price
43,200 - 62,400 £
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Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 7.7 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
5.7 - 6.1 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
15.4 - 15.9 kWh/100km
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Electric Range
88 km
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Electric Range
431 - 631 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
64 - 175 g/km
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co2
0 - 138 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,930 - 2,140 kg
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Curb weight
1,840 - 2,280 kg
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Trunk capacity
460 - 570 L
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Trunk capacity
540 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,920 mm
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Width
1,861 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
570 kg
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Payload
485 - 505 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Electric, Full Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
197 - 398 HP
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Power HP
156 - 354 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.5 - 9.7 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
330 - 670 Nm
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Torque
280 - 515 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
145 - 293 kW
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Power kW
115 - 260 kW
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Engine capacity
1,995 - 2,998 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,499 cm3
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General |
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|---|---|
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Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
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Model Year
2026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, E, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D, E
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España