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Mercedes GLA vs Nissan Leaf comparison

Compare performance (421 HP vs 217 HP), boot space and price (38,800 £ vs 30,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLA or Nissan Leaf?

Mercedes GLA vs Nissan Leaf: Key differences

Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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  • substantially more power
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • somewhat lighter
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Nissan Leaf

4.4 (2 Reviews)
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  • noticeably cheaper
  • clearly more electric range
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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

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

GLA

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Nissan Leaf is noticeably cheaper – starting at 30,800 £ , while the Mercedes GLA costs 38,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,022 £.

As for electric range, the Nissan Leaf offers clearly more range – reaching up to 624 km, about 550 km more than the Mercedes GLA.

Leaf

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 substantially more power – delivering 421 HP compared to 217 HP. That’s roughly 204 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.3 s, while the Nissan Leaf takes 7.6 s. That’s about 3.3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLA delivers clearly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 355 Nm. That’s about 145 Nm more.

GLA

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 terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLA is somewhat lighter – 1,570 kg compared to 1,864 kg. The difference is around 294 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLA carries moderately more – 500 kg compared to 444 kg. That’s a difference of about 56 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLA sits just ahead 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
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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
Nissan Leaf

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.

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Reviews Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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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

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is a practical, easygoing electric hatch that turns daily commutes into a quiet, effortless affair while offering more cabin space than it lets on. It’s a sensible, wallet-friendly step into electrification for buyers who value comfort and simplicity over sporty drama, though those chasing long-distance thrills might look elsewhere.

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Reviews Nissan Leaf

4.4 (2 Reviews)
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Mir
12 Mar 2026, 21:05:00

The author of this comparison probably doesn't read what they're writing. Almost 100 Nm is a small difference? XD And by the way, the Leaf is listed at 6.9 s to the first 100 km/h while the rival is over 8 s — that's not a small difference… it's a shame to read this comparison with so many mistakes; better to take a drive and judge for yourself.

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

Frequently compared as well

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 …
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 …
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Nissan Leaf
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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 …
Nissan Leaf
Toyota C-HR
VS
The Nissan Leaf and Toyota C-HR 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.
Dacia Spring
Nissan Leaf
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Dacia Spring and Nissan Leaf go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
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, …
Nissan Leaf
Opel Mokka
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Nissan Leaf and Opel Mokka go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
Mercedes GLA
Nissan Leaf

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Price
30,800 - 41,100 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
13.7 - 13.8 kWh/100km
Electric Range
74 km
Electric Range
436 - 624 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
66 - 216 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,570 - 1,810 kg
Curb weight
1,864 - 1,956 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Width
1,810 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
441 - 444 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
176 - 217 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.3 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
345 - 355 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
130 - 160 kW
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Nissan
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.