2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA vs. GLC

If you’re comparing the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA vs. GLC, then you’re already well on your way to more rewarding drives through Los Angeles and Pasadena. Still, it’s important to be clear about what each model has to offer, and where they stand apart! The most important differences between GLA and GLC SUVs concern their starting prices, powertrain options, interior dimensions, and towing capacities—and we’ve covered everything you need to know to make the right choice.

GLA vs. GLC: Price Range

Drivers who choose the larger Mercedes-Benz GLC will pay more upfront, but the higher price may feel like a better fit if you want a stronger base engine or more cargo space. 

• 2022 GLA 250 SUV: Starting at $36,400 MSRP*
• 2022 GLC 300 SUV: Starting at $43,850 MSRP*

It’s also worth noting that where features are concerned, you definitely get what you pay for:

• The GLC has a standard 10.25-inch central touchscreen, compared to a 7-inch standard touchscreen in the GLA.
• The GLC has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, compared to a 7-inch digital gauge cluster in the GLA.
• The GLC comes standard with useful driver assistance features that require an upgrade on the GLA. These include PARKTRONIC® with Active Parking Assist and Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist.

Considering upgrades? A fully-loaded GLA costs about the same as a fully-loaded GLC, and the two models offer very similar amounts of power at the top of the lineup. 

GLA vs. GLC: Performance & Towing Capacity

It’s impossible to cover the differences between the GLA and the GLC without noting that the GLC has a stronger standard engine. With that said, both models offer plenty of power as you move down the lineup. Plus, only the GLA offers a mid-range engine that balances the advantages of the entry-level and range-topping trims.

2022 GLA Engine Options

• 2.0L inline-4 turbo with 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque
• AMG®-enhanced 2.0L inline-4 turbo with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque
• Handcrafted AMG® 2.0L inline-4 turbo with 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque

2022 GLC Engine Options

• 2.0L inline-4 turbo with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque
• AMG®-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque

We’ve already mentioned that when it comes to towing, these two models are far from equal. That’s because the Mercedes-Benz GLC offers a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The GLA, on the other hand, is not rated for towing at all!

GLA vs. GLC: Cargo and Passenger Space

The Mercedes-Benz GLA is smaller than the GLC from end to end—but the two models offer near-equivalent amounts of front and rear legroom. (In fact, the GLA interior has slightly more in both areas.) However, the GLC offers five more cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are upright, or six more cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are flat. Take an in-depth look at the interior dimensions of both models right here:

2022 GLA Interior Dimensions

• Cargo Volume Behind Row 2: 15.4 cubic feet 
• Maximum Cargo Volume: 50.5 cubic feet
• Front Headroom: 39 inches
• Rear Headroom: 38.1 inches
• Front Legroom: 41 inches
• Rear Legroom: 38 inches
• Front Shoulder Room: 55.9 inches
• Rear Shoulder Room: 54.8 inches

2022 GLC Interior Dimensions

• Cargo Volume Behind Row 2: 19.4 cubic feet
• Maximum Cargo Volume: 56.5 cubic feet
• Front Headroom: 37.8 inches
• Rear Headroom: 38.5 inches
• Front Legroom: 40.8 inches
• Rear Legroom: 37.3 inches
• Front Shoulder Room: 57.3 inches
• Rear Shoulder Room: 56.5 inches

Test Drive Your Favorite Mercedes-Benz SUV at Mercedes-Benz of Arcadia!

If you’re located anywhere near Arcadia or Alhambra, you can schedule one or more test drives at our dealership whenever it’s convenient for you to do so! While you’re here, explore our current lease offers on GLA and GLC SUVs to find the perfect model at the perfect price. You can even reserve the model of your choice from home.

*Base MSRP excludes transportation and handling charges, destination charges, taxes, title, registration, preparation and documentary fees, tags, labor and installation charges, insurance, and optional equipment, products, packages and accessories. Options, model availability and actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for details, costs, and terms.