Mercedes has introduced the latest GLA, now the brand’s top seller, with more than 6,000 units delivered in just seven months. The new generation brings a more muscular exterior and a fully digital interior, with a lineup focused on electrification. For now, only electric versions are available. Combustion engines are set to join in 2027.
The Audi Q3, meanwhile, enters a new era for the four-ring brand. Since its debut in 2011, the Q3 has sold 2.7 million units globally and remains Audi’s best-selling model this year, with sales up nearly 27% compared with last year. The new Q3 gets sharper styling and an advanced digital cockpit, alongside a wider choice of powertrains, including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options.
Design and Interior
The Mercedes GLA now measures 4.56 meters long, 1.87 meters wide and 1.60 meters high, with a wheelbase of 2.79 meters. Its electric variants start at €54,726. The front grille on battery-powered models has a smoked-glass effect and 608 illuminated points. Other versions use a grille with 150 chrome stars and an LED frame. Inside, the GLA gets the MBUX Superscreen, with three displays: a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 14-inch central screen and a 14-inch passenger display. The infotainment system integrates AI-powered assistants using ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini, with natural conversation and advanced navigation support.
Passenger space has improved, with 7 mm more legroom in front and 38 mm extra in the rear. The panoramic roof, now standard, adds headroom throughout the cabin. The GLA’s boot, but, is limited to 410 liters, below average for its class. Folding the rear seats expands capacity to 1,400 liters, and electric versions add a 107-liter front trunk.
The Audi Q3 is slightly shorter, at 4.53 meters long, 1.86 meters wide and 1.59 meters high, with a 2.68-meter wheelbase. Prices start at €48,530. The new Singleframe grille and slimmer headlights give it a modern look. An illuminated four-ring logo at the rear adds a distinctive touch. Inside, the Q3 has two digital screens: an 11.8-inch instrument panel and a 12.8-inch infotainment display. Its dashboard feels more traditional than the GLA’s triple-screen setup. Rear seat space is adequate, though not as generous as in the Mercedes. An optional sliding bench lets passengers adjust legroom. The Q3’s boot offers 488 liters, significantly more than the GLA, and can reach 575 liters with the sliding bench. The plug-in hybrid version, but, drops to just 375 liters.
Engines and Electric Range
The GLA’s electric lineup has three versions. The entry-level GLA 200 electric produces 224 hp and has a 58 kWh LFP battery, though it is not yet on sale. The GLA 250+ electric delivers 272 hp, uses an 85 kWh NMC battery and offers up to 654 km of range. The GLA 350 4MATIC electric has 354 hp, dual motors and all-wheel lead, with a range of up to 640 km. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the GLA can recover up to 270 km of range in just ten minutes at 320 kW fast chargers. It can also charge from 10% to 80% in 22 minutes. Combustion engines, arriving in 2027, will use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine from Geely, paired with a 48V mild hybrid system and a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
The Audi Q3 has a broader selection. Its 1.5-liter TFSI petrol engine produces 150 hp and comes with mild hybrid technology and an ECO label. The 2.0 TFSI petrol engines deliver 204 or 265 hp and carry a C label. The plug-in hybrid Q3 e-hybrid has 272 hp, up to 120 km of electric range and a CERO label. Two 2.0 TDI diesel options produce 150 or 193 hp. Buyers can choose combustion, hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, but there is no fully electric Q3. Audi reserves that option for the larger Q4 e-tron.
Technology and Practicality
Both models offer an extensive range of digital features and comfort upgrades. The GLA’s triple-screen dashboard and AI assistant raise the bar for in-car tech, while the Q3’s dual-screen setup remains intuitive and familiar. The GLA offers more legroom and headroom. The Q3 counters with more cargo space and flexibility, especially with its sliding rear bench. For families or anyone needing extra luggage capacity, the Audi has a clear advantage.
The GLA stands out for charging speed and electric range, making it a strong choice for drivers prioritizing electric mobility. The Q3’s plug-in hybrid offers a practical compromise: electric range for daily commutes, with a combustion engine for longer trips.
Which SUV Stands Out?
Choosing between the Mercedes GLA 2026 and the Audi Q3 comes down to priorities. The GLA leads in electric new idea and digital experience, but has a smaller boot, and combustion versions are not yet available. The Q3 is more multifunctional, with a wider engine range and greater practicality, though it lacks a fully electric option. For buyers seeking a premium electric SUV with advanced tech, the GLA is hard to ignore. Those who value flexibility and cargo space also get a broader choice of engines with the Q3, which remains a benchmark.
As the premium SUV segment evolves, German brands are working harder to keep pace with new competitors. Models such as the MG 07 have drawn attention for Porsche-inspired design and aggressive pricing. As covered in our recent analysis of the changing field in the premium segment, the market is shifting. Mercedes and Audi continue to set the pace in technology and refinement, but competition is intensifying.
