Sometimes, big surprises come in small packages. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB and 2024 BMW X1 certainly offer big performance, style, and space for a small luxury SUV.
The two luxury leaders have been making significant gains in the small SUV realm, and the latest models certainly reflect those efforts to make these vehicles the best of the group.
Let’s check out the new Mercedes-Benz GLB and BMW X1.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Quiet, powerful, and spacious. All of the characteristics one wants in a luxury vehicle are found in the 2024 GLB. In fact, it’s large enough to feature something most others in this class do not — an optional third row.
With that third row down, you get a rather large cargo area while carrying five passengers. If you do not opt for a third row, the second-row seats recline and slide forward and back.
Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, the GLB combines 221 horsepower with better-than-average fuel economy at 28 mpg. All-wheel drive is an option for the Mercedes-Benz GLB 250. However, an AMG option pushes the power to 302 hp if you’re looking for more. Pricing starts at $45,600, including destination charge.
Mercedes-Benz GLB Highlights
MBUX: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience, or MBUX, infotainment system comes with a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and the ability to recognize voice commands given in natural speech. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is also newly standard.
Stellar sound: Mercedes’ Burmester systems are among the best. The GLB offers a 12-speaker/590-watt surround-sound version. Now it comes with Dolby Atmos technology for a more immersive experience.
Mercedes me: This app can lock and unlock the doors, locate the vehicle, and — if navigation is on board — send it directions.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the GLB models near you.
2024 BMW X1
Not surprisingly, the 2024 BMW X1 offers an impressive synthesis of performance, looks, technology, and luxury. The X1 looks the part of a BMW on the outside, starting with the impossible-to-miss kidney grille. It’s upright without looking stiff.
Like many luxury vehicles, it features a curved, dual-screen dash — Live Cockpit Plus — that makes everything crystal clear and easy to reach. While the leather-and-technology-laden interior is a massive selling point, so is the cabin’s available space. There is ample room for five passengers. However, there is no third-row seat available as there is in the Mercedes-Benz GLB.
Powered by a 241-hp turbo 4-cylinder and standard all-wheel drive, X1 drivers can have as much or as little fun as they want behind the wheel. Also, an upgrade to a specially tuned version of the same engine nets you 313 hp in the form of M35i. Pricing begins at $41,495, including destination fee.
BMW X1 Highlights
Harman Kardon: This superb 12-speaker/360-watt surround-sound system is part of the Premium package that also includes several other desirable features.
Driver assist: Active Driving Assistant Pro includes assistance with changing lanes, emergency stops (if the driver has a medical crisis), and evasive steering.
Two choices: Putting out 241 horses, the standard engine on the X1 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 313-hp version in the M35i.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the X1 models near you.
Similarities
The Mercedes-Benz GLB and BMW X1 enjoy simple but attractive exterior styling, which is characteristic of their current lineups. Each SUV features a load of convenience and safety technology that’s tough to match.
Conclusion
This contest is too close to call — save the $4,000 more the Mercedes-Benz GLB costs. Otherwise, these two are identical cousins. Make sure to get behind the wheel of both for a prolonged period, then make your choice.
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB | 2024 BMW X1 | |
| Starting Price | $45,600 | $41,495 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder w/mild hybrid | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 221 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 241 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 256 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 7-speed dual clutch/AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 25 city/33 highway/28 combined mpg | 25 city/34 highway/28 combined |
| Also Available | AWD/Tuned 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | Tuned 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | N/A | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 111.4 inches | 106.0 inches |
| Overall Length | 182.4 inches | 177.2 inches |
| Width | 72.2 inches | 72.6 inches |
| Height | 65.3 inches | 64.6 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.9 feet | 38.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 40.7 inches | 42.1 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.3 inches | 39.3 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 34.8 inches | N/A |
| Legroom, Front | 41.1 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.0 inches | 37.0 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 29.1 inches | N/A |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.9 inches | 56.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 54.9 inches | 55.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 43.8 inches | N/A |
| Cargo Volume | 22.0 cubic feet | 25.7 cubic feet |
