@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
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Mercedes GLA vs Toyota RAV4 – Which model is better for everyday use?

Two cars, one duel: Mercedes GLA meets Toyota RAV4.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

The Urban Adventurers: Mercedes GLA vs. Toyota RAV4

The compact SUV market is continually evolving, offering consumers impressive features and innovative technology. Two popular contenders in this space are the Mercedes GLA and the Toyota RAV4. Both vehicles promise an exceptional driving experience, but each offers different attributes that make them unique. Let's delve into a detailed comparison between these two stalwarts of the road.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance

The Mercedes GLA provides a variety of engine options, ranging from petrol to plug-in hybrids, with power outputs spanning from 116 HP to a dazzling 421 HP. The plug-in hybrid version combines a 1.3-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, offering a top electric range of 74 km. Its dual-clutch automatic transmission caters to both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive preferences, enhancing its dynamic performance.

Conversely, the Toyota RAV4 emphasizes its eco-friendly initiative with full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. With power outputs between 218 HP and 306 HP, the RAV4 offers a CVT automatic transmission suitable for both front-wheel and all-wheel drives. An electric range reaching up to 75 km makes it a formidable contender in efficient mobility.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Efficiency and Sustainability

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota RAV4 edges out with a remarkable consumption rate of 5.6 L/100 km for hybrids and just 1 L/100 km for the plugin variant. The CO2 emissions are also lower, clocking in at 22 g/km for the most efficient model, aligning with Toyota's commitment to sustainability.

The GLA, in its hybrid versions, matches with a consumption of 1.1 L/100 km. However, the conventional petrol engines have a higher consumption, up to 9.5 L/100 km. The CO2 emissions vary significantly, with traditional variants reaching up to 216 g/km.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Dimensions and Capacity

The Mercedes GLA is notably compact, despite its luxury branding. It measures just under 4.5 meters in length, making it a fantastic choice for urban settings. It offers a trunk capacity between 385 to 435 liters, providing ample space for daily errands or weekend getaways.

The RAV4 stands out with its more robust proportions at 4.6 meters in length and a substantially larger trunk space of 520 to 580 liters. These dimensions make it ideal for families or those in need of additional storage capacity.

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Comfort and Design

When it comes to interior luxury, the Mercedes GLA shines with its contemporary design and cutting-edge technology, making every drive a premium experience. With seating for five, the GLA encapsulates a sophisticated charm that is quintessentially Mercedes.

The RAV4 offers a practical yet thoughtful interior design. It accommodates five passengers comfortably and provides an ease of use that suits a wide array of lifestyles. The cabin focuses on user-friendly technologies and high-quality materials, ensuring comfort during any journey.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Conclusion

Choosing between the Mercedes GLA and the Toyota RAV4 largely depends on what drivers prioritize in a vehicle. The GLA presents a glamorous and dynamic driving experience with its powerful options and luxury features. On the other hand, the RAV4 stands out with its commitment to efficiency, spaciousness, and practicality. Both models are exceptional examples of modern engineering and design, each offering unique advantages that cater to different preferences and needs.

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

GLA @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Toyota RAV4 has a slightly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35100 £, while the Mercedes GLA costs 38800 £. That’s a price difference of around 3702 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Toyota RAV4 manages with 1 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Mercedes GLA with 2.90 L. The difference is about 1.90 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Toyota RAV4 performs slight better – achieving up to 75 km, about 1 km more than the Mercedes GLA.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

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 evident edge – offering 421 HP compared to 306 HP. That’s roughly 115 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 Toyota RAV4 takes 6 s. That’s about 1.70 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLA performs evident better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Toyota RAV4 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 90 km/h.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes GLA is somewhat lighter – 1570 kg compared to 1745 kg. The difference is around 175 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Toyota RAV4 offers evident more room – 580 L compared to 435 L. That’s a difference of about 145 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Toyota RAV4 performs a bit better – up to 1690 L, which is about 260 L more than the Mercedes GLA.

When it comes to payload, Toyota RAV4 to a small extent takes the win – 600 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 100 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Toyota RAV4 shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £35,100
RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota RAV4

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 218 - 306 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1 - 5.6 L
  • Electric Range : 75 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

Toyota RAV4

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota RAV4 feels like a sensible friend on the road, marrying dependable practicality with a dash of SUV personality that keeps daily driving from turning dull. Comfortable and easy to live with, it looks tough without shouting and quietly gets the job done — a sensible pick for buyers who want versatility without drama.

details
73487-rav4prexterior34front-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
73488-rav4prexterior34rear-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
77636-2023rav4ext001-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
73489-rav4printeriordashboard-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation

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RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption
Price
38800 - 75300 £
Price
35100 - 55700 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L
Consumption L/100km
1 - 5.6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
74 km
Electric Range
75 km
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
66 - 216 g/km
co2
22 - 128 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 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
1745 - 1910 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
520 - 580 L
Length
4412 - 4443 mm
Length
4600 mm
Width
1834 - 1849 mm
Width
1855 mm
Height
1590 - 1616 mm
Height
1685 mm
Max trunk capacity
1385 - 1430 L
Max trunk capacity
1604 - 1690 L
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
390 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
218 - 306 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6 - 8.4 s
Max Speed
190 - 270 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
160 - 225 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
Engine capacity
2487 cm3

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

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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.