Merc GA250 v BMW X3

[Neeranam]

Going to buy a new car next year and interested in the above models.

 

I am looking for models about 2-4 years old and they are of similar price.

 

Which one would you recommend? I like a sporty ride. 

[Kwasaki]

I like the BM X3 with M 3.0L 6 cyl  lump.

[Jitar]

If you mean GLA250, my thoughts are:

+ definitely a sporty ride

+ good engine performance. 

+ attractive interior design.

- noisey, partly due to run flat tyres

- dual clutch trans can be a bit sluggish, especially in economy 

- Thai assembled models from around 2015 were FWD only so some torque steer and understeer when driven hard at lower speeds.  

- back seat suitable for small children / short trips only. 

 

The X3 is a lot larger and more conservatively styled.  Probably a better bet if a SUV style car with larger back seat is needed.  GLA is a marketed as an SUV but it is really a slightly taller hatchback.  Good alternative for a small sporty car.  

[Neeranam]

21 hours ago, Jitar said:

If you mean GLA250, my thoughts are:

+ definitely a sporty ride

+ good engine performance. 

+ attractive interior design.

- noisey, partly due to run flat tyres

- dual clutch trans can be a bit sluggish, especially in economy 

- Thai assembled models from around 2015 were FWD only so some torque steer and understeer when driven hard at lower speeds.  

- back seat suitable for small children / short trips only. 

 

The X3 is a lot larger and more conservatively styled.  Probably a better bet if a SUV style car with larger back seat is needed.  GLA is a marketed as an SUV but it is really a slightly taller hatchback.  Good alternative for a small sporty car.  

Helpful, thanks. I think the GLA is for me. Kind of an upgrade from my Mazda CX3. 

 

What do you mean, "noisy partly due to run flat tyres"? 

 

 

Edited October 30, 2020 by Neeranam

[JAS21]

3 hours ago, Neeranam said:

Helpful, thanks. I think the GLA is for me. Kind of an upgrade from my Mazda CX3. 

 

What do you mean, "noisy partly due to run flat tyres"? 

 

 

He means more NVH is transmitted to the cabin. Run flats have stiffer sidewalls than conventional tires. If you Google you’ll get a fuller Explanation

[Jitar]

8 hours ago, Neeranam said:

Helpful, thanks. I think the GLA is for me. Kind of an upgrade from my Mazda CX3. 

 

What do you mean, "noisy partly due to run flat tyres"? 

I thought the Tyre noise on coarse asphalt was louder in the GLA250 than many other cars.  However I only have experience with the OEM tyres.  May be better with different tyres or not a problem if not driving on coarse surfaces.