2025 BMW X2 vs. 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA Comparison

The 2025 BMW X2 and Mercedes-Benz GLA reflect the rising popularity of style-forward subcompact luxury SUVs. The demand for new and exciting variations of high-end SUVs is pushing automakers to become more creative and innovative, and these are two prime examples of the results of those efforts.

The X2 features the coupe-like exterior styling that’s taken hold in the luxury SUV segment, while the GLA proves that younger buyers can find a reasonable price point to buy a high-end vehicle, even if it’s not their father’s S-Class.

Let’s take a closer look at these two SUVs.

2025 BMW X2

2024 model shown

The 2025 BMW X2 offers a great mix of style, performance, technology, and luxury. Perhaps most importantly, it does all that at a reasonable price for this segment.

The X2 could be considered the more stylish, coupe-like sibling to the BMW X1 SUV, but with an additional 7.6 inches, so passengers get to enjoy more space as well as the usual high-end touches for which BMWs are known. Like many luxury vehicles, it features a curved, dual-screen dash that makes everything crystal clear and easy to reach.

While the leather-and-technology-laden interior is a big selling point, the BMW X2 is also on point when it comes to on-the-road performance. Powered by a 241-hp turbo 4-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, the X2 ensures the driver can have a lot of fun behind the wheel. For even more grins, you can upgrade to a specially-tuned version of the same engine that nets you 312 hp. There are two versions: the X2 xDrive28i or the X2 M35i.

BMW X2 Highlights

Sport Boost: BMW X2 models fitted with the M Sport package have a secret: The left paddle on the steering wheel can activate Sport Boost, which BMW says enables “extremely dynamic midrange sprints.”

Two power outputs: Putting out 241 horses, the standard engine in the X2 xDrive28i is a potent powerplant and will be better than fine for most drivers. However, if you are not “most drivers,” you can upgrade to the 312-hp version in the X2 M35i.

Ready Player: The BMW X2 can be had with built-in games in collaboration with AirConsole. The games can be played when the vehicle is stationary, with a phone used as a controller. Unsurprisingly, that’s not an option on the GLA.

Read our BMW X2 Expert Review or see 2025 BMW X2 models for sale near you.

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA

2024 model shown

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is the gateway into the German luxury brand’s lineup. For the 2025 model year, a surround vision system is now offered as a standalone option. Carrying over from last year is a revised front grille, a bigger screen for the infotainment system, and a hybrid-assist system for the engine, giving it a little more oomph off the line.

The GLA 250’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine develops 221 hp. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. As with the X2, a more powerful variant is offered, in this case, the AMG GLA 35 with 302 hp.

Moving inside, the large 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen is tough to miss. The GLA offers a good amount of room for adults in the back seat, but that comes at the expense of the vehicle’s storage behind the second-row seats.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Highlights

MBUX: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) is the grand title of the infotainment system. It responds to voice commands using natural speech (start by saying, “Hey, Mercedes …”). Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration is standard.

Awesome audio: Burmester produces some of the world’s best audio systems, particularly for Mercedes-Benz. It’s optional here and worth the upgrade if you appreciate great audio quality.

Augmented reality: A forward-facing camera shows real-time images on the touchscreen, which then superimposes things like house numbers and direction arrows, making life easier when driving to an unfamiliar location. We’ve been impressed by this optional system.

Read our Mercedes-Benz GLA Expert Review or see 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA models for sale near you.

Similarities

The BMW X2 and Mercedes-Benz GLA are stylish, technology-laden subcompact luxury SUVs from two prestigious German brands. They’re also similar in size and price. The pair are fantastic options in this segment.

Conclusion

The BMW X2 has more cargo space and a stronger base engine. The Mercedes-Benz GLA counters with a lively AMG model and more rear legroom. Other than those aspects, these subcompact luxury SUVs are quite evenly matched. You can’t go wrong with either, so test drive them both and pick the one that checks more boxes on your list.

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors.
The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for vehicles and vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership.
These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.