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Mercedes GLA vs Volvo XC40 comparison

Compare performance (421 HP vs 197 HP), boot space and price (38,800 £ vs 41,900 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLA or Volvo XC40?

Mercedes GLA vs Volvo XC40: Key differences

Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • marginally cheaper
  • considerably more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
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Volvo XC40

5 (6 Reviews)
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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

GLA

The Battle of Premium Compact SUVs: Mercedes GLA vs Volvo XC40

In the world of premium compact SUVs, the competition is fierce, and two contenders that often dominate discussions are the Mercedes-Benz GLA and the Volvo XC40. Both German engineering and Swedish innovation come to life in these models, each with its unique strengths and features. In this head-to-head comparison, we dissect their technical aspects and innovations to see how they stack up against one another.

XC40

Engine and Performance

The Mercedes GLA offers a diverse range of engine types, including Petrol Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEV), diesel, plug-in hybrid, and conventional petrol engines. This diversity allows Mercedes to cater to a broader audience with varying power preferences, boasting power outputs from 116 HP up to a whopping 421 HP, depending on the model variant. The GLA reaches a top speed of up to 270 km/h.

On the other side, the Volvo XC40 is equipped with practical Petrol MHEV engines available in 163 HP and 197 HP variants. While slightly less powerful than its German rival, the XC40 emphasizes efficiency and smooth acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 7.6 seconds, and it has a top speed of 180 km/h due to Volvo’s commitment to safety.

GLA

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Both vehicles recognize the growing importance of sustainability. The Mercedes GLA stands out with an excellent plug-in hybrid option featuring a consumption rate as low as 1.1 L/100km and an electric range of up to 74 km, thanks to its 12.9 kWh battery. The traditional combustion engines exhibit varied fuel consumption rates, capped at a reasonable 9.5 L/100km for the high-performance models.

The Volvo XC40, with its MHEV setup, offers a consistent fuel efficiency of around 6.5 L/100km. CO2 emissions range between 147 and 148 g/km, positioning it within the 'E' efficiency class. While it may not have an electric range, its overall efficiency remains competitive.

XC40

Dimensions and Practicality

Both the GLA and XC40 feature the practicality inherent to small SUVs. The Mercedes measures up to 4443 mm in length, 1849 mm in width, and 1616 mm in height, offering a trunk capacity of up to 435 liters. Volvo's XC40, although slightly more compact with a length of 4425 mm, provides more width and height at 1863 mm and 1652 mm respectively, and exceeds in trunk space with 452 liters.

GLA

Driving Dynamics and Comfort

Mercedes prides itself on offering both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations for the GLA, tailored through a dual-clutch automatic transmission for a dynamic drive. The vehicle is designed for those who appreciate precision and luxury in their journeys.

Volvo offers a straightforward front-wheel-drive with their XC40 model, focusing on a refined and smooth driving experience. Both SUVs come with a well-tuned suspension to ensure comfort, making them ideal for both city drives and long-distance travel.

XC40

Conclusion: Premium Choice Depends on Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the choice between the Mercedes GLA and Volvo XC40 boils down to individual preferences. If diversity in engine options and raw power is your goal, the Mercedes GLA shines with its broad spectrum of configurations. On the other hand, if you prioritize efficiency, Scandinavian design, and a slightly more eco-friendly footprint, the Volvo XC40 emerges as a compelling alternative.

Both the Mercedes GLA and Volvo XC40 continue to set benchmarks in the compact SUV segment with their innovative features and meticulous craftsmanship, leaving buyers with the luxurious yet challenging decision of choosing which path aligns with their lifestyle.

Frequently compared as well

Mercedes B Class
Mercedes GLA
VS
The Mercedes B‑Class and Mercedes GLA target buyers who want Mercedes practicality with premium touches, but they take different paths: the B‑Class is a spacious, hatchback-style people carrier while the GLA is a compact crossover with a higher ride height and sportier stance. This comparison looks …
Volvo EX40
Volvo XC40
VS
The Volvo EX40 and Volvo XC40 put two sides of Volvo’s compact-SUV line-up head-to-head: the EX40 is a dedicated electric model focused on efficiency, range and modern tech, while the XC40 is a versatile compact SUV available with petrol, hybrid and electric options that delivers a more traditional …

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 marginally cheaper – starting at 38,800 £ , while the Volvo XC40 costs 41,900 £ . That’s a price difference of around 3,069 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLA uses 2.9 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.5 L/100km. The difference is about 3.6 L/100km.

XC40

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 offers considerably more power – delivering 421 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 224 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 4.3 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.6 s. That’s about 3.3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLA delivers markedly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 200 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 very slightly lighter – 1,570 kg compared to 1,688 kg. The difference is around 118 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Volvo XC40 carries barely more – 532 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 32 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
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Mercedes GLA
Volvo XC40

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mercedes GLA

The Mercedes GLA is a compact luxury crossover that brings Mercedes-Benz's refined design and premium cabin materials into a practical, city-friendly package. It combines comfortable ride quality and intuitive tech with poised handling, making it a confident choice for everyday driving and longer journeys.

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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

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 blends Scandinavian design with practical versatility, offering a compact luxury crossover that feels composed and easy to live with. It’s refined and focused on safety with a high-quality interior, making it a smart choice for daily city driving and weekend escapes.

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Reviews Volvo XC40

5 (6 Reviews)
rate
Trentini Paolo
7 May 2026, 13:45:44

Delivered a few days ago — a radical change after 5 VW Golfs, most recently a T‑Roc.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
S. M.
20 Apr 2026, 09:07:56

Excellent

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

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VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, hard-working compact SUV that delivers excellent everyday comfort, clever interior space and strong value for money — perfect if you want a reliable family car without the premium price tag. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, is a sharper, more upscale choice with a …
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The Lexus NX and Volvo XC40 are two leading compact luxury SUVs that blend premium craftsmanship with everyday practicality. The NX leans toward refined comfort and dependable hybrid tech, while the XC40 emphasizes clean Scandinavian design, clever packaging and class-leading safety—so choice …
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Volvo XC40
VS
The Volvo C40 and Volvo XC40 are closely related compact Volvos that deliver strong safety, premium interiors and modern tech, but they take different routes: the C40 is a coupe‑styled, electric‑first model focused on design and emission‑free driving, while the XC40 is a more conventional SUV …
Hyundai Tucson
Volvo XC40
VS
The Hyundai Tucson turns heads with bold styling, generous kit and wallet-friendly practicality, while the Volvo XC40 answers with crisp Scandinavian design, a cosseting cabin and a premium badge that justifies the extra euros. If you want bang-for-buck family usability and lots of equipment go …
BYD Seal U
Volvo XC40
VS
The BYD Seal U and the Volvo XC40 represent two different approaches to modern motoring: the Seal U is an electric fastback emphasizing range, technology and value, while the XC40 is a compact premium SUV known for safety, comfort and refinement. This comparison highlights their key strengths and …
CUPRA Formentor
Volvo XC40
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The CUPRA Formentor is a punchy, coupe-styled compact SUV whose sharp chassis and spicy engines deliver grin-inducing drive and looks that demand attention; the Volvo XC40 answers with calm Scandinavian poise, clever practicality and safety tech that makes daily life feel worry-free. If you crave …
Mercedes GLA
Volvo XC40

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Price
41,900 - 46,100 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
6.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
74 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
66 - 216 g/km
co2
148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,570 - 1,810 kg
Curb weight
1,688 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Width
1,863 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
532 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
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
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3
Engine capacity
1,969 cm3

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