Which is the best entry-level luxury SUV from leading car brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi? Let's find out together, as here is a specification comparison of the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, and Audi Q3. All these cars fall within the price range of 50 to 55 lakh, which puts them on the radar of people looking to step into the world of luxury for the first time. So, let's get started, and before that, make sure to join the 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel to never miss out on automotive updates.
Also Read: 2025 BMW X3 vs Mercedes Benz GLC vs Audi Q5 - Comparison!
BMW X1 vs Mercedes GLA vs Audi Q3 - Price Comparison
The entry-level BMW starts at Rs 50.80 lakh ex-showroom, and the diesel engine variant costs Rs 53.80 lakh. On the other hand, the base price of the GLA is also the same as the Beemer, Rs 50.80 lakh. However, there are two variants in the diesel engine lineup. Now, the Audi Q3 is the cheapest SUV here, starting at just Rs 44.99 lakh, with the top variant costing Rs 55.64 lakh ex-showroom.
| Cars | BMW X1 | Merc GLA | Audi Q3 |
| Starting Price | Rs 50.80 lakh | Rs 50.80 lakh | Rs 44.99 lakh |
BMW X1 vs Mercedes GLA vs Audi Q3 - Dimensions
| Dimensions | BMW X1 | Merc GLA | Audi Q3 |
| Length | 4500 mm | 4412 mm | 4482 mm |
| Width | 1845 mm | 2020 mm | 1849 mm |
| Height | 1630 mm | 1616 mm | 1607 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2692 mm | 2729 mm | 2680 mm |
From this table, its clear that the the BMW X3 is the longest SUV here with 4.5 m length, however, Mercedes has managed to carved out the longest wheelbase of 2729 mm. Still, the inside space of the X3 feels better because of its upright shape. The GLA feels like a small hatchback and tall people won't find the back seats comfortable because of the swooping roof line.
Talking about the Audi Q3, this sub-compact SUV has the shortest dimensions, except for its width, where its better than the X1. However, the space quotient isn't as good as the other two, but it still feels fairly comfortable.
Engine Specifications
In the BMW X3, there are two engine options. The first is a 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that churns out 136 hp and 230 Nm of torque. The second is a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel engine that produces 150 hp and 360 Nm of torque. Both are mated to a 7-speed DCT, but paddle shifters are available only with the diesel engine.
Talking about the Mercedes-Benz GLA Class, the petrol engine is a 1.4L turbocharged unit that produces 163 hp and 270 Nm of torque, sending power to the front wheels via a 7-speed DCT. Then, there is a 2.0L diesel engine that makes 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque, sending power to all four wheels via an 8-speed DCT.
The Audi Q3's only source of power is a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine that produces 190 hp and 320 Nm of torque. This is an AWD car, and the gearbox is a 7-speed DCT.
Features
Although there are several features in the BMW X1, the standout ones are the panoramic glass roof, 12 speakers by Harman Kardon, a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, a 10.7-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, a digital key, ADAS, and an NFC-enabled key card.
In the GLA Class, the top features available are a panoramic sliding sunroof, ambient lighting with 10 levels, a 360-degree parking camera, electronically adjustable front seats with memory function, ADAS, a digital key, TPMS, blind spot assist, 7 airbags, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Talking about the Q3, the features list is short and crisp, as there is no wireless phone connectivity, front ventilated seats, ADAS, or a high-end sound system. However, you do get a panoramic sunroof, Audi's Virtual Cockpit, cruise control, a 10-inch infotainment screen, 30+ colors of ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control.
Also Read: Hyundai Creta EV First Look Review! Check Images
Verdict
For me, the best car here is the BMW X1, as it offers a good amount of space inside, along with two engine options, a tech-loaded interior, and a stylish design. Additionally, several media reports suggest that the diesel engine of the X1 achieves 23 to 24 kmpl of mileage. If you want the same amount of power but can compromise on space, the GLA is perfect for you. However, the Audi Q3, with its limited features and only one engine option, feels left behind in the race of premium German cars. That said, driving each of them would be an extremely different experience, and for that, check out the 91Wheels YouTube channel.
