2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA had a modernized appearance, fitting snugly into its role as the smallest SUV in the Mercedes lineup. Its proportions and styling were distinct, with a taller stance and shorter length compared to its predecessor, giving it a beefier and more muscular look. Despite its compact size, the GLA offered ample visibility from the inside, although the interior materials left something to be desired in terms of luxury. The seats were well-appointed, but the overall interior quality did not match up to other luxury crossovers, making it comparable to mass-market models in terms of interior appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX presented a refined and unmistakably Lexus design, characterized by its signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on simplicity and functionality, although some controls integrated into the large touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. The NX's interior quality was high, with options for real leather and open-pore wood trim, and it featured a panoramic sunroof for the first time. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like bolstered seats and unique instrumentation, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a range of variants, including the GLA 250, GLA 250 4MATIC, and AMG GLA 35, with the AMG GLA 45 on the horizon. The GLA 250 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. The AMG GLA 35 increased power to 302 hp, while the AMG GLA 45 boasted 382 hp, reaching 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The GLA's performance was versatile, with various drive modes and an AWD system that adjusted torque distribution. However, the GLA 250 experienced turbo lag and road noise, affecting its overall driving refinement.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered electrified options, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ PHEV delivering 302 hp with an electric range of 36 miles. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 350 F Sport added adaptive suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its sporty character. The NX's handling was impressive, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals. Despite some road and wind noise, the NX provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, with credible acceleration claims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a more SUV-like seating position with excellent headroom and legroom for front passengers. The rear seats, with a 40/20/40 split-fold, provided more legroom than before, accommodating smaller adults comfortably. The GLA's cargo space was average for its class, with 15.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The low load floor and power liftgate made cargo handling convenient.

The 2022 Lexus NX claimed increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat. The NX was comfortable, especially with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with practical storage space and a panoramic sunroof. The NX offered 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Luxury trim featured ambient lighting with nature-inspired themes, enhancing the interior ambiance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 7.0-inch display screens, touchpad controller, and standard connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Burmester audio system, and wireless charging. The MBUX system was user-friendly, though it lacked quick scrolling for radio stations. The GLA introduced a car-wash function, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant technological advancements with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and cloud-based features. The Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality. The NX offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability. However, the large touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob, affecting usability.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a reasonable amount of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced safety technologies, but the GLA's standard safety features were less comprehensive than some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also offered Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting, enhancing safety.