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Volvo XC40 vs Mercedes GLA comparison

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

Volvo XC40 vs Mercedes GLA: Key differences

Volvo XC40

5 (5 Reviews)
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Mercedes GLA

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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  • only slightly cheaper
  • significantly more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • barely 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

XC40

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.

GLA

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.

XC40

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.

GLA

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.

XC40

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.

GLA

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

Ford Kuga
Volvo XC40
VS
The Ford Kuga is the zippier, more practical pick — roomy, better value and a bit more fun to drive — while the Volvo XC40 trades that scrappiness for a quieter, upmarket cabin, class-leading safety tech and unmistakable Scandinavian polish. If you want driving engagement and bang for your buck go …
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 …

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

XC40

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.

Mercedes GLA is only slightly 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 significantly more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.5 L/100km. The difference is about 3.6 L/100km.

GLA

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 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 noticeably more torque with 500 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 200 Nm more.

XC40

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 terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLA is barely lighter – 1,570 kg compared to 1,688 kg. The difference is around 118 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Volvo XC40 carries very slightly 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 stands well ahead of its rival 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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Volvo XC40
Mercedes GLA

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 wraps Scandinavian minimalism into a compact, city-ready SUV with a premium cabin that feels both practical and grown-up. It will suit buyers who prize safety, clever storage and a composed ride, proving that small dimensions don't mean small personality.

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Reviews Volvo XC40

5 (5 Reviews)
rate
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

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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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

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Choosing between the Volvo EX40 and XC40 is basically a choice between new‑school electric chic and old‑school SUV versatility: the EX40 is the fresh, all‑electric, city‑savvy compact with the latest tech and low running costs, while the XC40 is the tougher, more familiar compact that still offers …
Hyundai Tucson
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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 …
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Skoda Karoq
Volvo XC40
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The Skoda Karoq is the sensible, spacious family SUV that puts practicality and value first — roomy boot, low running costs and a no-nonsense interior that feels built to last. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, serves up Scandi style, sharper tech and a more premium cabin (plus safety kit you can brag …
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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 …
Nissan Qashqai
Volvo XC40
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 …
Peugeot 3008
Volvo XC40
VS
The Peugeot 3008 is the extrovert of the pair—bold styling, a quirky, techy interior and strong value that make it a fun crossover to live with, while the Volvo XC40 plays the long game with understated Scandinavian style, class-leading safety and a more premium feel. Pick the 3008 if you want …
Honda ZR-V
Volvo XC40
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Honda ZR-V impresses with its blend of practicality and sporty handling, making it a strong contender for urban drivers. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 stands out with its premium interior and advanced safety features, appealing to those who prioritize comfort …
Volvo XC40
Mercedes GLA

Costs and Consumption
Price
41,900 - 46,100 £
Price
38,800 - 75,300 £
Consumption L/100km
6.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.9 - 9.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
74 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
148 g/km
co2
66 - 216 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
1,688 kg
Curb weight
1,570 - 1,810 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
385 - 435 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,863 mm
Width
1,834 - 1,849 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
532 kg
Payload
480 - 500 kg

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

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, G
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drive types are available for the Volvo XC40?

The Volvo XC40 is available as Front-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.