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Mercedes GLA vs VW Polo comparison

Compare performance (421 HP vs 207 HP), boot space and price (38,800 £ vs 17,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLA or VW Polo?

Mercedes GLA vs VW Polo: Key differences

Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • somewhat more trunk space
details

VW Polo

4.1 (3 Reviews)
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  • substantially cheaper
  • noticeably lighter
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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 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.

VW Polo is substantially cheaper – starting at 17,300 £ , while the Mercedes GLA costs 38,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 21,578 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLA uses 2.9 L/100km and is clearly more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 2.2 L/100km.

Polo

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 significantly more power – delivering 421 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 214 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLA is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.3 s, while the VW Polo takes 6.5 s. That’s about 2.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLA delivers markedly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 180 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, VW Polo is noticeably lighter – 1,143 kg compared to 1,570 kg. The difference is around 427 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLA offers somewhat more boot space – 435 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 84 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLA carries only slightly more – 500 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 43 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLA holds a decisive overall lead 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 …
VW Polo
VW T-Cross
VS
The VW Polo is a nimble, wallet-friendly hatch that makes city driving and tight parking effortless, while the VW T-Cross trades the Polo’s sprightliness for SUV practicality — higher seating, a roomier boot and a more commanding road presence. Pick the Polo if you want cheap, lively motoring; …
Mercedes GLA
VW Polo

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
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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

VW Polo

The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.

details
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DB2021AU00728_medium
DB2021AU00732_medium
DB2021AU00735_medium
DB2021AU00736_medium
DB2021AU00741_medium

Reviews VW Polo

4.1 (3 Reviews)
rate

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

Frequently compared as well

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, …
VW Polo
VW Taigo
VS
The VW Polo is the sharp, no-nonsense hatchback that nails everyday practicality — nimble in town, economical to run and pleasantly composed on the motorway. The VW Taigo swaps a bit of luggage room and rear headroom for SUV flair, higher seating and a more eye-catching cabin, so pick the Polo for …
VW ID.3
VW Polo
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The VW ID.3 and VW Polo 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.
Ford Puma
VW Polo
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In the competitive segment of compact crossovers, the Ford Puma stands out with its sporty design and engaging driving dynamics, appealing to those who prioritize excitement behind the wheel. On the other hand, the VW Polo offers a more traditional hatchback experience, characterized by its solid …
Renault Clio
VW Polo
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In the competitive supermini segment, the Renault Clio and VW Polo stand out for their blend of style, performance, and practicality. The Clio boasts a more dynamic design and an engaging driving experience, while the Polo is celebrated for its refined build quality and advanced technology …
Toyota Yaris
VW Polo
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In the compact car showdown, the Toyota Yaris and the VW Polo both make compelling cases, each boasting its own unique strengths. The Yaris shines with its impressive fuel efficiency and dependable reliability, making it a practical choice for everyday driving. On the other hand, the Polo …
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
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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
VW Polo

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Price
17,300 - 30,800 £
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 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
116 - 148 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
1,143 - 1,378 kg
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Width
1,751 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
480 - 500 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.3 - 11 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1,984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
VW
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.