EXTRA-SMALL LUXURY SUV: BMW-X1 VS MERCEDES-BENZ GLB

Extra-small luxury SUVs are a great way to cruise around in luxury without paying an excessive amount. As an example, check out the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

It has been one of the top performers in its class since it was introduced in 2020. It sports distinctive boxy styling, excellent technology and a comfortable ride. But in today’s highly competitive market, there’s always a new model aiming for the top spot. The GLB’s main rival, the BMW X1, was redesigned for 2023. The little Bimmer received updated styling, a roomier interior and many of BMW’s top-notch technology features. Which one is the better buy? Experts compared them to find out.

POWER & FUEL ECONOMY

Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines power both luxury SUVs. The X1’s 241-horsepower powerplant is not only more powerful than the GLB’s 221-horsepower mill, but it’s also more fuel-efficient. With all-wheel drive, the X1 delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving, 3 more than the all-wheel-drive GLB’s 25 mpg. When equipped with front-wheel drive, which the BMW doesn’t offer, the GLB’s rating of 27 mpg combined still doesn’t top the X1.

The results were closer when the test team drove all-wheel-drive versions of both SUVs on its real-world test route. The X1 averaged 27 mpg, a tad more than the GLB’s average of 26 mpg. At the track, the extra oomph in the BMW showed. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.9 seconds, besting the GLB’s 6.5-second sprint. That’s not a huge difference but the X1 does feel a bit more eager when you need a burst of speed.