If you're in the market for a premium compact SUV, you're not short of options. Two of the most popular choices are the Volvo XC40 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, each offering a distinct flavour of upmarket family transport.
The XC40 brings a dose of cool Scandinavian design, a reputation for safety, and a focus on comfort and practicality. The GLA, meanwhile, was redesigned in 2020 to be a much more convincing premium product, boasting a high-tech interior and a sportier character. With both offering a range of efficient engines, choosing between them comes down to your personal priorities.
Volvo XC40 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
Practicality
Volvo XC40 practicality score: 4/5
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class practicality score: 3/5
Practicality is a key battleground for family SUVs, and the Volvo XC40 has the edge here. Its interior is a masterclass in thoughtful design, with comfortable front seats, plenty of clever storage cubbies, and a clean, uncluttered feel. The 443-litre boot isn't the biggest in the class on paper, but it's a useful square shape with no load lip, making it easy to slide heavy items in. While the rear middle seat is best for occasional use, the XC40 is a well-thought-out family car.
The Mercedes GLA offers a more luxurious-feeling cabin, but it's not quite as user-friendly. Rear legroom is decent, but taller passengers might find headroom a little tight. The boot is larger than the Volvo's at 485 litres, and the standard 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats add a dose of flexibility. However, the XC40's overall packaging and family-focused details give it the win for day-to-day usability.
Driving Impressions
Volvo XC40 driving score: 4/5
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class driving score: 4/5
These two cars offer quite different driving experiences, so your preference will depend on what you value most. The XC40 is all about comfort. Its soft suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps, and the light steering makes it easy to manoeuvre in town and to park. It’s not the most engaging car to drive on a twisty road, but it’s relaxing, quiet, and confidence-inspiring, which is exactly what many buyers are looking for.
The GLA-Class, particularly in AMG Line trim, feels more agile and sporty. The steering has more weight to it and the car feels eager to turn into corners with minimal body roll. The trade-off is a ride that can feel a bit firm and fidgety at lower speeds, although it settles down nicely on the motorway. The GLA also offers a much wider range of engines, from efficient petrols and diesels to a plug-in hybrid and a high-performance AMG 45 S model. The XC40 now focuses on mild-hybrid petrol engines.
Technology and Equipment
Volvo XC40 technology and equipment score: 4/5
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class technology and equipment score: 4/5
Both cars deliver a high-tech experience. The XC40’s cabin is dominated by a portrait-style central touchscreen. On earlier cars, this system could be a little slow, but later models feature Google-based software that is much slicker and more intuitive to use. All versions are well equipped, with even entry-level models getting plenty of desirable kit.
The GLA-Class counters with its impressive MBUX infotainment system, which features two large digital screens that stretch across the dashboard. It looks sophisticated and is packed with features, including the "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant. The quality of the materials and the overall design give the cabin a genuine wow factor. Both cars offer a premium tech experience, and choosing between them is largely a matter of taste.
Running Costs
Volvo XC40 running costs score: 4/5
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class running costs score: 4/5
As premium SUVs, neither car is a bargain-basement purchase. The Mercedes often has a slightly higher list price than the equivalent Volvo, but strong demand for both means they hold their value well, which protects you from steep depreciation.
Day-to-day running costs are competitive. The XC40’s mild-hybrid petrol engines can return fuel economy in the mid-40s mpg, while older diesel models were even more frugal. For the GLA, the lower-powered petrol and diesel engines are similarly efficient. If you want to minimise fuel bills, the plug-in hybrid versions of both cars are the ones to go for, provided you can charge them regularly to make the most of their electric-only range. Servicing costs for both brands are in line with other premium rivals.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
|
Volvo XC40 |
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class |
| CarGurus expert rating |
4 out of 5 |
4 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating |
4.5 out of 5 |
4.5 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* |
31.7% |
32.4% |
| Overall CarGurus rating |
4.4 out of 5 |
4.4 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Volvo XC40 Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4/5
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4/5
This is an incredibly close contest between two highly desirable premium SUVs, and our CarGurus ratings reflect that – it’s a dead heat. Both the Volvo XC40 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class score an identical 4.4 out of 5, making it impossible to declare an outright winner. The best car for you will come down to your personal preferences.
The Volvo XC40 is the choice for those who prioritise comfort, clever practicality, and understated style. It’s a relaxing and easy car to live with, wrapping up the best qualities of larger Volvos in a more compact and affordable package. Its strong safety credentials are also a major draw for family buyers.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class will appeal to those who want a sportier driving experience and a more overtly high-tech cabin. Its sharp handling and flashy dual-screen interior make a strong statement, and the wider range of available engines—including the potent AMG models—gives buyers more choice.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either. They are both excellent all-rounders that rightly sit at the top of the premium compact SUV class.
Volvo XC40 Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable and relaxing ride |
Not as engaging to drive as rivals |
| Stylish and practical interior |
Infotainment on older models can be slow |
| Strong safety credentials |
Rear middle seat is tight for adults |
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Agile handling and sporty feel |
Ride can be firm on AMG Line models |
| High-tech and luxurious cabin |
Can be more expensive than rivals |
| Wide range of engine choices |
Rear headroom is limited for tall passengers |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.
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