Mercedes-Benz and Lexus are two of the most successful luxury SUV manufacturers on the planet. Even when it comes to compact, ultra-affordable luxury SUVs, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus have the market covered with the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 and the 2017 Lexus NX Turbo. They are extremely similar in more ways than they are different, but that doesn't mean the choice is arbitrary.

On the outside, the Lexus NX is clearly larger. It is longer, wider, and even taller than the Mercedes-Benz which means it provides a little more interior room, but not without cost. More interior room means less handling and poor efficiency, relatively speaking. This brings up the question, are you looking for comfort or sport?

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250	VS	2017 Lexus NX Turbo
$32,850	MSRP	$35,085
208/258	Power	235/258
7-Speed DCT	Transmission	6-Speed
3,296 lbs.	Curb Weight	3,940 lbs.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Performance

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA and the Lexus NX are the smallest SUVs offered by their respective brands. Because they are smallest, they come with the lowest price tag, but that doesn't mean they are less than capable of putting a smile on your face. Thanks to the low curb weight of the GLA and the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLA is able to provide more performance with less power. The Lexus, though still fun to drive, is extremely heavy and is only available with a 6-speed transmission.

Another feature that sets the GLA apart from the NX is driver assistance. Both vehicles have driver-assistance options, but no other company has yet to match the reliability and convenience of Mercedes-Benz DISTRONIC PLUS ®. Borrowed from the semi-autonomous 2017 E-Class, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is one of the most intelligent compact SUVs on the road. If you have any questions about why the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA is a better investment than the 2017 Lexus NX, stop by Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale today to take one for a test drive!