Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Toyota bZ

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was a modernized entry-level SUV in the Mercedes lineup, positioned as the smallest SUV beneath the GLS, GLE, GLC, and GLB. Its proportions and styling were designed to fit comfortably within the subcompact class, with a wheelbase and exterior measurements that placed it on the larger side of this category. The GLA was three inches taller and half an inch shorter in overall length than its predecessor, featuring short overhangs and cladding that contributed to its beefier dimensions. Despite its small windows, the seating positions and greenhouse provided ample visibility. The interior, however, was filled with less-than-premium surfaces, with the seats being the nicest appointed pieces. While it looked good from a distance, the GLA's interior did not measure up to other luxury crossovers, with mass-market models offering nicer interiors for a similar price.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor FWD or dual-motor AWD and two battery sizes. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, which enhanced power, performance, and range. The restyled bZ looked better with body-color trim, and the interior boasted a cleaner dashboard and center console, imparting a higher sense of quality. The fabric seats had an upscale pattern, and the center touchscreen was increased to 14 inches, integrating climate control with the display. However, the digital driver display was criticized for being mounted too far away and cramming too much information into a small area. Despite these issues, the bZ's interior was considered an improvement over its predecessor.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was offered in three variants: GLA 250, GLA 250 4MATIC, and AMG GLA 35, with the AMG GLA 45 on the way. The GLA 250 and 250 4MATIC were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. The AMG GLA 35 featured an AMG-enhanced turbocharged engine with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The AMG GLA 45 upped the power to 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. The GLA's AWD system could be regulated using drive modes, and the SUV had a MacPherson strut front suspension and a four-link rear axle. However, the GLA 250 struggled with turbo lag and low-end gearing confusion, and its steering was numb.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a single electric motor with a 57.7-kWh battery pack, providing 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models produced 338 hp, with a range of 288 miles for the XLE AWD. The bZ could be recharged using a DC fast charger or a Level 2 home charger. Efficiency tests showed the bZ performed better than the EPA estimate in Eco mode. The bZ's instant torque made it easy to break loose the front wheels, and it was an agreeable around-town conveyance. However, the bZ was not ideal for winding roads, with lifeless steering and front wheelspin issues.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA's added height provided a more SUV-like seating position, with easy ingress and egress. Front passengers enjoyed fantastic headroom and legroom, while the rear seats offered more legroom than before. The GLA had a 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat, synthetic leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. Cargo space was 15.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 50.5 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a skateboard-style EV platform with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. The seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but had ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest. Rear-seat passengers had plenty of legroom, but foot space was tight. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet behind the power rear liftgate, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 7.0-inch display screens. The system included four USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 12-speaker Burmester audio system, and wireless device charging. The MBUX system was easy to use, with intuitive scrolling and selection functionality, but lacked a quick way to scroll through radio stations.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system was generally easy to use, but lacked a home screen for displaying multiple data panels simultaneously. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with several connected service plans available. The Intelligent Assistant voice assistant worked well, with only minor issues during testing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA included a reasonable amount of active safety features, such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. The Driver Assistance Package added features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. However, the GLA's standard safety features were lacking compared to less expensive SUVs.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added Traffic Jam Assist and other advanced features. However, the bZ's adaptive cruise control response was inconsistent, and the driver monitoring system was overly sensitive. The IIHS gave the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech a Good rating, but the headlights received a Poor rating.