@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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CUPRA Terramar vs Mercedes GLA – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: CUPRA Terramar or Mercedes GLA?

Terramar @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Unveiling the Rivalry: CUPRA Terramar vs. Mercedes GLA

In the world of compact SUVs, two contenders stand out in the 2024 landscape: the bold CUPRA Terramar and the iconic Mercedes GLA. Both vehicles represent a formidable mix of innovation, power, and design, appealing to the modern driver who values performance and tech-savvy features. Let’s delve into the features and specs that set these two apart.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The CUPRA Terramar, with its athletic stance, measures 4519 mm in length, 1869 mm in width, and 1586 mm in height. Its distinctively aggressive look fits perfectly with urban and off-road enthusiasts. On the other side, the Mercedes GLA slightly differs in its modern elegance, spanning a length of 4443 mm, a width of 1849 mm, and a height of 1616 mm. Both models offer five doors and comfortable seating for up to five passengers.

Terramar @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Engine Options and Performance

The Terramar's engine lineup highlights variety, offering a plugin hybrid with a power output of 272 HP, a petrol MHEV generating 150 HP, and a conventional petrol engine with 265 or 204 HP. The highlight is its plugin hybrid, boasting an impressive electric range of 120 km, backed by a 19.7 kWh battery. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h varies between 5.3 to 9.3 seconds, depending on the engine choice, with a top speed reaching up to 243 km/h.

In contrast, the Mercedes GLA offers a more extensive engine variety, including petrol, diesel, a plugin hybrid, and petrol MHEV. The petrol engines range from 150 HP to a staggering 421 HP. The plugin hybrid option provides an electric range between 70 to 74 km, with a 12.9 kWh battery. The GLA sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.3 seconds, with the top speed capping at an exhilarating 270 km/h.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Eco-friendly drivers will appreciate the Terramar’s plugin hybrid, boasting a fuel consumption rate of 0.4 L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 10 g/km. The CUPRA model's overall efficiency ranges from class B to G, depending on the variant. Meanwhile, the GLA’s plugin hybrid showcases impressive consumption at only 1.1 L/100km, with minimal CO2 emissions at 24 g/km. The efficiency classes for the GLA span from B to G, with the plugin option leading the way as the greenest model.

Terramar @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Transmission and Drive Experience

Both the Terramar and GLA feature a smooth dual-clutch automatic transmission, promising a seamless driving experience. The Terramar gives buyers the choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive systems, providing flexibility for different driving preferences. Similarly, the GLA also offers both drive types, enhancing its versatility across various terrains.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Practicality and Cargo

Practicality is key for SUVs, and both vehicles deliver. The CUPRA Terramar comes with a generous trunk capacity of 450 to 540 liters, depending on configurations. In contrast, the Mercedes GLA offers a slightly smaller range of trunk space from 385 to 435 liters. Despite these differences, both SUVs ensure ample room for everyday needs, from family activities to adventurous getaways.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Companion

The decision between the CUPRA Terramar and the Mercedes GLA boils down to personal preference and priorities. If an extensive electric range, cutting-edge design, and potent hybridization are your focus, the Terramar stands as a strong contender. Conversely, for those who crave high-end performance alongside luxurious finesse, the Mercedes GLA is an irresistible option. Whichever SUV you choose, rest assured that both offer an impressive mix of excitement and efficiency, reflecting the latest advancements in automotive engineering.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

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.

CUPRA Terramar has a hardly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 36900 £, while the Mercedes GLA costs 38800 £. That’s a price difference of around 1962 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLA manages with 2.90 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the CUPRA Terramar with 6.10 L. The difference is about 3.20 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

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 Mercedes GLA has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 421 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 156 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 4.30 s, while the CUPRA Terramar takes 5.90 s. That’s about 1.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLA performs slight better – reaching 270 km/h, while the CUPRA Terramar tops out at 243 km/h. The difference is around 27 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLA pulls a bit stronger with 500 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes GLA is hardly perceptible lighter – 1570 kg compared to 1638 kg. The difference is around 68 kg.

In terms of boot space, the CUPRA Terramar offers somewhat more room – 540 L compared to 435 L. That’s a difference of about 105 L.

When it comes to payload, CUPRA Terramar barely noticeable takes the win – 542 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 42 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes GLA proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Mercedes GLA is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £38,800
GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes GLA

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, 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
  • Electric Range : 74 km

CUPRA Terramar

5 (1)
rate

The CUPRA Terramar is a sharply styled, sporty SUV that brings athletic handling and bold design to buyers who want performance with everyday usability. Inside, premium finishes meet driver-focused flair and family-friendly practicality, making it a tempting pick for anyone who wants thrills without turning their daily routine into a chore.

details

Mercedes GLA

5 (1)
rate

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.

details
CUPRA Terramar
Mercedes GLA
Terramar @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
36900 - 48500 £
Price
38800 - 75300 £
Consumption L/100km
6.1 - 8.4 L
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
74 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
co2
139 - 191 g/km
co2
66 - 216 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1638 - 1750 kg
Curb weight
1570 - 1810 kg
Trunk capacity
540 L
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Length
4519 mm
Length
4412 - 4443 mm
Width
1869 mm
Width
1834 - 1849 mm
Height
1586 mm
Height
1590 - 1616 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
1385 - 1430 L
Payload
540 - 542 kg
Payload
480 - 500 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
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
150 - 265 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 9.3 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Max Speed
205 - 243 km/h
Max Speed
190 - 270 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 195 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F, G
Brand
CUPRA
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drivetrain options does the CUPRA Terramar have?

The CUPRA Terramar is available as 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.