VS

Mercedes GLA vs Mercedes SL Class comparison

Compare performance (421 HP vs 816 HP), boot space and price (38,800 £ vs 112,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLA or Mercedes SL Class?

Mercedes GLA vs Mercedes SL Class: Key differences

Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly cheaper
  • considerably more efficient
  • significantly more electric range
  • slightly lighter
details

Mercedes SL Class

  • substantially more power
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
details

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

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

GLA

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Mercedes GLA is significantly cheaper – starting at 38,800 £ , while the Mercedes SL Class costs 112,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 73,868 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLA uses 2.9 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Mercedes SL Class with 9 L/100km. The difference is about 6.1 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes GLA offers significantly more range – reaching up to 74 km, about 62 km more than the Mercedes SL Class.

SL Class

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 SL Class offers substantially more power – delivering 816 HP compared to 421 HP. That’s roughly 395 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes SL Class is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 2.9 s, while the Mercedes GLA takes 4.3 s. That’s about 1.4 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes SL Class delivers substantially more torque with 1,420 Nm compared to 500 Nm. That’s about 920 Nm more.

GLA

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Mercedes GLA offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLA is slightly lighter – 1,570 kg compared to 1,810 kg. The difference is around 240 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLA carries visibly more – 500 kg compared to 375 kg. That’s a difference of about 125 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

Frequently compared as well

Mercedes B Class
Mercedes GLA
VS
The Mercedes B‑Class is the practical, airy people‑carrier that prioritises space and comfort, while the Mercedes GLA takes the same mechanical smarts and adds SUV looks, higher ride height and a touch more road presence. Pick the B‑Class for family‑friendly sense and efficiency, choose the GLA if …
Mercedes A Class
Mercedes GLA
VS
The Mercedes A‑Class is the sharper, more driver-focused hatch that feels nimble and refined on twisty roads, while the Mercedes GLA trades a bit of agility for SUV practicality with a higher ride height, extra luggage space and a commanding view of the road. Pick the A‑Class for sporty handling, …
Mercedes GLA
Mercedes SL Class

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mercedes GLA

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
20C0047_067
20C0047_071
20C0047_104
20C0047_115

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
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
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
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Mercedes SL Class

The Mercedes SL blends timeless elegance with a cheeky sense of occasion, its retractable roof turning any commute into a small celebratory parade. Behind the wheel it behaves like a grown-up sports car that prefers comfort and presence over headline-grabbing bravado, making it a tempting choice for buyers who want to arrive in style.

details
15C1119_012
15C1119_029
15C1119_120
15C1119_004

Reviews Mercedes SL Class

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

Lexus LBX
Mercedes GLA
VS
In the realm of premium compact SUVs, the Lexus LBX and Mercedes GLA both deliver a blend of luxury and performance that caters to discerning buyers. While the LBX emphasizes a smooth and refined ride with its hybrid powertrain, the GLA offers a sportier edge and more dynamic handling. Ultimately, …
Mercedes GLA
VW T-Roc
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Mercedes GLA stands out with its luxurious interior and advanced technology, appealing to drivers who prioritize comfort and style. In contrast, the VW T-Roc offers a more playful design and offers a practical, user-friendly experience, making it a strong …
Mercedes EQA
Mercedes GLA
VS
In the battle of compact luxury, the Mercedes EQA and GLA offer distinct advantages that cater to different driving preferences. While the EQA stands out with its electric powertrain and eco-friendly appeal, the GLA retains the versatility and familiar dynamics of a traditional combustion engine. …
BMW X2
Mercedes GLA
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the BMW X2 and Mercedes GLA stand out with their stylish designs and engaging performance. While the X2 offers a sportier driving experience with sharp handling and a distinctive coupe-like silhouette, the GLA impresses with its elegant interior and advanced …
Mercedes GLA
Nissan Qashqai
VS
The Mercedes GLA and Nissan Qashqai compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Mercedes GLA
VW Tiguan
VS
In the ongoing battle between luxury and practicality, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volkswagen Golf continue to showcase their respective strengths. The C-Class impresses with its opulent interior and advanced technology, catering to those who seek sophistication and performance. Meanwhile, the …
Audi Q2
Mercedes GLA
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q2 stands out with its youthful design and engaging driving dynamics, appealing to those who prioritize style and performance. Meanwhile, the Mercedes GLA offers a more luxurious experience with its refined interior and advanced technology features, …
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake
Mercedes GLA
VS
In the battle between the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake and the Mercedes GLA, both models showcase the brand's signature blend of luxury and performance. The CLA Shooting Brake offers a sleek, coupe-like silhouette with added practicality, while the GLA boasts a more robust stance and superior …
Mercedes GLA
Mercedes SL Class

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Price
112,700 - 219,300 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
9 - 13.6 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
74 km
Electric Range
12 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
66 - 216 g/km
co2
206 - 309 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Roadster
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,570 - 1,810 kg
Curb weight
1,810 - 2,195 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Width
1,915 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
145 - 375 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
381 - 816 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
2.9 - 4.9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
480 - 1,420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4 - 8
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
280 - 600 kW
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3
Engine capacity
1,991 - 3,982 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the Mercedes GLA offered with different drivetrains?

The Mercedes GLA 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.