BMW X1 vs Mercedes GLA vs Audi Q3 2017 SUV review | Mat Watson Reviews

TL;DR

BMW X1 emerges as the best compact SUV among the three.

Transcript

small premium SUVs they need to combine the style typical of a posh car brand with a sort of toughness and practicality that you just can't get from a regular hatchback but we should to choose between the Mercedes GLA the Audi Q3 or the BMW X1 it's a case of a star versus some rings against a blue propeller I am of course talking brand logos to hel... Read More

Key Insights

• The BMW X1 is praised for its practicality, spaciousness, and high-quality interior, making it the top choice among the three SUVs.
• The Audi Q3 offers a balanced performance with a good infotainment system, but its interior design feels somewhat outdated compared to its competitors.
• The Mercedes GLA boasts a stylish design and sporty appearance but falls short in terms of practicality and interior quality.
• All three SUVs have different strengths: BMW X1 excels in practicality, Audi Q3 in comfort, and Mercedes GLA in style.
• The BMW X1's infotainment system is highly regarded, with a user-friendly interface and clear menu layout.
• Price-wise, the Mercedes GLA is the most affordable, starting at just over £25,000, while the BMW X1 is the most expensive.
• The BMW X1 offers a smooth driving experience with its adaptive dampers and comfortable ride, making it enjoyable for both city and highway driving.
• The Mercedes GLA, despite its sporty look, lacks the driving engagement found in the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, making it less appealing for enthusiasts.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes the BMW X1 the best choice among the three SUVs?

The BMW X1 is considered the best choice due to its spacious interior, high-quality materials, and superior infotainment system. It offers a comfortable ride with its adaptive dampers and provides a more engaging driving experience compared to the Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3. Its practicality and overall quality make it the top pick.

Q: How does the Audi Q3 compare to its competitors?

The Audi Q3 offers a balanced performance with a comfortable ride and good infotainment system. However, its interior design feels outdated compared to the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA. While it provides a good driving experience, it lacks the engagement and modern features found in its competitors, placing it second in the review.

Q: What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Mercedes GLA?

The Mercedes GLA is praised for its stylish design and sporty appearance, making it visually appealing. However, it falls short in terms of practicality and interior quality. Its driving dynamics are not as engaging as the BMW X1 or Audi Q3, and it offers less space for passengers and cargo, making it the least practical option.

Q: Which SUV offers the best value for money?

In terms of pricing, the Mercedes GLA is the most affordable option, starting at just over £25,000. However, the BMW X1 offers the best value for money due to its superior quality, practicality, and driving experience. Despite being the most expensive, its features and overall performance justify the higher price.

Q: What are the key differences in the driving experience of the three SUVs?

The BMW X1 provides a more engaging and comfortable driving experience with its sharp steering and adaptive dampers. The Audi Q3 is easy to drive and offers a comfortable ride but lacks excitement. The Mercedes GLA, despite its sporty look, feels less engaging and is not as comfortable as the other two, particularly on longer journeys.

Q: How do the infotainment systems of the three SUVs compare?

The BMW X1's infotainment system is highly regarded for its user-friendly interface and clear menu layout, making it the best among the three. The Audi Q3's system is functional but feels outdated. The Mercedes GLA's system is less intuitive and lacks the sophistication and ease of use found in the BMW and Audi systems.

Q: What are the practical features of the BMW X1 that make it stand out?

The BMW X1 offers a spacious interior with ample head and legroom, particularly in the rear seats. It features a large boot with easy-to-use folding seats, providing excellent cargo space. The interior is equipped with numerous storage options, making it ideal for families and those seeking practicality in a compact SUV.

Q: Why is the BMW X1 considered more engaging to drive than the other two SUVs?

The BMW X1 is considered more engaging to drive due to its sharp steering and responsive handling. It communicates well with the driver, providing a more connected and enjoyable driving experience. The adaptive dampers enhance comfort and handling, making it both fun and practical for various driving conditions, unlike the Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The review compares three premium compact SUVs: BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, and Audi Q3, focusing on design, practicality, and driving experience. The BMW X1 stands out for its spacious interior, practicality, and superior infotainment system, earning it the top spot.

• The Audi Q3, while comfortable and easy to drive, is criticized for its outdated interior design and less engaging driving dynamics. The Mercedes GLA is noted for its stylish design but lacks practicality and driving engagement.

• Price comparisons reveal that the Mercedes GLA is the most affordable option, starting at just over £25,000, while the BMW X1 is the most expensive. Overall, the BMW X1 is deemed the best all-rounder among the three.