@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
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Mercedes GLA vs Renault Arkana – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Mercedes GLA or Renault Arkana fits your lifestyle better.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Battle of the Compact SUVs: Mercedes GLA vs. Renault Arkana

In the rapidly evolving world of compact SUVs, two models have stood out for their engineering prowess and innovation: the Mercedes GLA and the Renault Arkana. As urban jungles become more congested and car owners look for vehicles that pack performance and efficiency, we pit these two fierce competitors against each other to see which one claims the throne.

Arkana @ Renault Group Media

Design and Dimensions

Starting with design, the Mercedes GLA offers a more traditional upscale appearance that the German brand is known for, with its dimensions measuring 4412 to 4443 mm in length, 1834 to 1849 mm in width, and 1590 to 1616 mm in height. Meanwhile, the Renault Arkana strikes a bolder and sportier silhouette with a length of 4568 mm, a width of 1821 mm, and a height of 1576 mm, making it slightly larger overall.

The trunk capacity is another critical factor for SUV owners. The Arkana leads in this regard, offering up to 513 liters compared to the GLA's 385 to 435 liters, giving families and adventurers extra space for their needs.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Performance and Efficiency

Both vehicles feature a variety of engine options, but the GLA's lineup is more extensive, catering to those who crave both performance and efficiency. The Mercedes GLA comes with petrol MHEV, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and regular petrol engines. It can produce from 116 HP up to a powerful AMG variant at 421 HP, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.3 seconds. Although it’s pricier, the all-wheel-drive option offers enhanced handling and grip.

In contrast, Renault Arkana focuses on a harmonious blend of performance and efficiency, boasting full hybrid and petrol MHEV engines. With output ranging from 140 to 158 HP, the Arkana's acceleration isn’t as quick, with a 0-100 km/h time between 9.1 and 10.8 seconds. However, it impresses in fuel efficiency with consumption figures from 4.7 to 6 L/100km compared to the GLA's 1 to 9.5 L/100km, thanks in part to its lighter curb weight of 1411 to 1510 kg.

Arkana @ Renault Group Media

Technological Advancements

Mercedes enjoys a reputation for innovation, showcased in the GLA's advanced MBUX infotainment system, voice-controlled functions, and various driving assists that make every journey both enjoyable and safe. Features like AI-driven navigation and adaptive cruise control align with the expectations of premium SUV drivers.

The Renault Arkana incorporates a more straightforward, user-friendly interface with its systems. Its standout includes the EASY LINK multimedia system that impressively handles connectivity, navigation, and safety features. Even with its more affordable price point, Renault ensures that Arkana’s tech doesn't lag much behind luxury lines.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Driving Comfort and Interior Experience

Inside, the GLA radiates luxury with high-quality materials and a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. The seats are supportive, and the cabin is well-insulated from external noise, contributing to a premium drive experience.

Arkana's interior strikes a balance between style and functionality, offering a comfortable ride that accommodates five passengers. Its spacious interior doesn’t skimp on quality, providing a comfortable environment across its lineup.

Arkana @ Renault Group Media

Final Verdict

Both the Mercedes GLA and Renault Arkana deliver unique benefits that cater to different audiences. The GLA is perfect for those who prioritize higher performance and luxury, justified by a steeper price tag, while the Arkana is ideal for buyers looking for practicality without sacrificing style or technological convenience.

In this battle of compact SUVs, the winner truly depends on personal preferences. Whether you're drawn to the Mercedes GLA with its power and tech-savvy aura or the Renault Arkana with its efficiency and bold aesthetics, both vehicles are commendable choices for modern drivers.

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

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Renault Arkana has a noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 28500 £, while the Mercedes GLA costs 38800 £. That’s a price difference of around 10379 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLA manages with 2.90 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Renault Arkana with 4.70 L. The difference is about 1.80 L per 100 km.

Arkana @ Renault Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLA has a clearly edge – offering 421 HP compared to 143 HP. That’s roughly 278 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 4.30 s, while the Renault Arkana takes 10.80 s. That’s about 6.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLA performs evident better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Renault Arkana tops out at 172 km/h. The difference is around 98 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLA pulls clearly stronger with 500 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 295 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, Renault Arkana is minimal lighter – 1510 kg compared to 1570 kg. The difference is around 60 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Arkana offers barely noticeable more room – 480 L compared to 435 L. That’s a difference of about 45 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLA performs a bit better – up to 1430 L, which is about 167 L more than the Renault Arkana.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLA slight takes the win – 500 kg compared to 451 kg. That’s a difference of about 49 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes GLA proves to be is largely superior 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
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
20C0047_067 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
20C0047_071 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
20C0047_104 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
20C0047_115 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Renault Arkana

4 (1)
rate

The Arkana stands out with its striking coupe-SUV design, blending sporty aesthetics with practicality. Its bold silhouette and high ride height offer a unique presence on the road, attracting attention wherever it goes. Inside, the Arkana combines modern technology with comfort, making it a versatile choice for both city driving and weekend getaways.

details
r210653p @ Renault Group Media
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r210657p @ Renault Group Media
r210613p @ Renault Group Media
r210616p @ Renault Group Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
38800 - 75300 £
Price
28500 - 31900 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L
Consumption L/100km
4.70 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
74 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
Battery Capacity
0.60 kWh
co2
66 - 216 g/km
co2
106 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1570 - 1810 kg
Curb weight
1510 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
480 L
Length
4412 - 4443 mm
Length
4568 mm
Width
1834 - 1849 mm
Width
1821 mm
Height
1590 - 1616 mm
Height
1576 mm
Max trunk capacity
1385 - 1430 L
Max trunk capacity
1263 L
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
451 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
143 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.80 s
Max Speed
190 - 270 km/h
Max Speed
172 km/h
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
205 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
105 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
Engine capacity
1598 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Renault

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What drivetrain options does the Mercedes GLA have?

Available configurations include 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.