2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA vs. 2025 Volvo XC40: The Compact Luxury SUV Choice.
September 03 2025,
Luxury crossovers thrive on first impressions, and both the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40 deliver. The GLA shows off a sleek, refined design that feels unmistakably premium, while the XC40 leans toward a playful and upright stance with a confident SUV look. Both are eye-catching, but they appeal to slightly different personalities—one for polished sophistication and the other for modern versatility.
Power That Fits Every Drive
Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG 35 4MATIC SUV brings an intercooled turbo gas/electric 2.0-litre I-4 engine with 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Volvo XC40 B5 AWD Core Bright Theme is equipped with an intercooled turbo gas/electric 2.0-litre I-4 engine as well, delivering 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both give you punchy performance, but the GLA leans into sporty acceleration while the XC40 favours smooth low-end response.
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Everyday Efficiency and Range
Fuel economy is always part of the conversation. The GLA is rated at 10.7 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 L/100 km on the highway, with a combined 9.8 L/100 km. The XC40 edges slightly higher with 10.2 L/100 km city and 7.8 L/100 km highway, giving it a combined 9.0 L/100 km. Whether you value efficiency for long commutes or balance for city driving, both models bring thoughtful efficiency to the table.
Cabin Comfort and Passenger Space
Inside, both SUVs deliver a premium feel but with subtle differences. The GLA offers 39 inches of front headroom and 38 inches in the second row, paired with 41 inches of front legroom and 38 inches in the back. The XC40 provides 37.6 inches of front headroom and 38.3 inches in the rear, with 40.9 inches of front legroom and 36.1 inches in the back. Both seat five comfortably, though the GLA gives a touch more stretch in legroom while the XC40 adds a fraction more head clearance in the rear.
Cargo and Practical Space
Practicality is where both models shine in unique ways. The GLA has 436 litres of cargo space behind the second row and up to 1,430 litres with seats folded. The XC40 comes with 453 litres of space behind the second row and expands to 1,628 litres with seats down. Whether it’s luggage, gear, or groceries, each SUV adapts to everyday life with ease.
Ride Dynamics and Handling
On the road, the GLA’s multi-link rear suspension and strut front suspension are tuned for sporty responsiveness, while the XC40’s similar setup emphasizes balanced comfort and nimble control. Both come standard with all-wheel drive, making them capable across Canadian winters and road conditions. Steering on both feels precise, ensuring confidence whether you’re navigating tight city streets or open highways.
Test Drive Luxury at Mercedes-Benz Boundary
Both the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40 stand out in the luxury small SUV segment, each offering unique strengths in power, comfort, and everyday usability. To truly experience how the GLA takes luxury driving to another level, visit Mercedes-Benz Boundary. Our team is here to help you explore your options and get behind the wheel of a vehicle that fits your lifestyle. Discover your next drive today in British Columbia with Mercedes-Benz Boundary.
