Although belonging to the same class and at first it seems to be fighting for the same customer, Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3 are completely differently designed and address the different categories of drivers.
It is almost unnecessary to point out how much more are 4 × 4 models in recent years have become very popular and how each manufacturer, which counts on a serious market share, has offered to have several of these models. Craze for MPV models is somewhat reduced, convertibles with solid-top, too, compared to yesterday's expansion, have become a species that settle.
And, just as 4 × 4 models, which are average drivers, in fact, the least necessary, become a hit! Of course, very quickly adapted to the new "habitat" because most never even get off the asphalt. And from that brutal off-road image, customers remained slightly increased clearance, 4 × 4 drive and "makeup" that resembles the world of adventure. Also, the dimensions are adapted to use in an urban environment.
What do you currently do the best, we tried to discover the roundup, where they crossed spears Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3. These are compact crossovers, which offer an ideal relationship dimensions suitable for everyday city driving, but not at the cost of sacrificing the interior space, which is still at the level of the average of the C segment. Although definitely represent market rivals, these models are very different and definitely will attract different customers.
Mercedes GLA is newer to the market and has a slightly different concept. He is technically strongly relies on the current A-Class. However, the Mercedes took care to all be reduced to increased clearance and a couple of ornaments in the off-road style. Headlights have been redesigned, the last completely changed and some are large in size, so that in the end it can be concluded that the GLA and the A-class resemble each other, but not more than all contemporary Mercedes.
The edges of the wheels are getting skin, in the bottom of the front and rear bumpers are applications that mimic the metal off-road reinforcement, and are similarly decorated and thresholds vehicles. When we add to the slightly increased clearance, obtained one really attractive continent by Ratings most of the editorial board, and even more practical than the original A-class. The somewhat increased ground clearance and tires solid profile, as if they were created the city "parking adventures" and worry-free "climbing" on the curbs.
Audi Q3 by creating a slightly different, and one might say that 4 × 4 model from Ingolstadt more cherishes classic SUV image. The body is higher, so the car itself is more reminiscent of the classic representatives of "off-road" segment. Another big difference between a Mercedes and Audi's figurehead is the approach to design. Audi's smallest model with the "Q" mark, kept restrained design style, so the car looks unobtrusive.
In the tested white, practically "invisible" to most passersby on the streets, and only a few details, like the large front grille and distinctive LED daytime lights, interested by which the average observer. Apparently GLA will be the first choice of young people, as well as members of the fairer sex, which represents car fashion accessory, while the wheel models Q3 easier to imagine also younger people, but a completely different oriented, and it is not a bad choice of family driver.
A similar policy applies when it comes to interior design. Again Mercedes who plays "on the first ball" and "love at first sight". Although the cockpit identical to the A-Class, which we repeatedly tested, again represented a pleasant surprise. It is not possible to sit in the model GLA, rather than react. Merc's new design detail - the circular air vents, reminiscent of an old, good cars, beautiful look, especially thanks to the aluminum detailing and the LCD monitor just leaves no one indifferent.
Some complain that this solution may be forced, but in our opinion it is not. Also, it turned out that the vertical angle of the this display, facilitates its reading on sunny days, and as such, is better than the screens that are angled in the center console. The same goes for the dashboard, which is transparent, but also attractive. The center console provides detailed controls air conditioning and music device.
Objection refer Mercedesovoj decision that switches on the steering wheel has multiple functions, so it is not possible to simultaneously change the station on the radio device and the data that informs trip computer, but it is necessary in setting select the desired option. We are, in the end, left steering wheel controls the mode trip computer, and "music" we chose the multifunction rotary switch between the front seats.
What we welcome is somewhat improved comfort compared to the A-Class, which is due to increased clearance. Comfort contributions and perfectly molded seats. Like most modern cars, and GLA is quite vast when reversing. View covering the front seats with integrated head restraints, as well as the massive C pillar and a little glass tailgate. I really would not be bad to the producers on the list of important things when designing the car back transparency, which are obviously at one point "blacked out".
Joining the Audi Q3 is a completely different experience. The seat is positioned much higher, because the car itself is higher, so the feeling much closer to the classic SUV, but the wheel of GLA. The second impression, by the turn of the Mercedes is that all design is reduced. Even the display that you see in the photographs can easily be reached, resulting in a setting with clean lines, with a minimum of necessary switches and without a trace of exaggeration design.
What will appeal which is a matter of personal choice. Someone will by the turn of the Mercedes in the Audi to be disappointed, while others considered that the design of the cab in the model Q3 purposeful. It should be noted that the quality of materials and finishes making both models at a high level, and that is a matter of personal taste and preferences of the buyer for what's going to define. Seats in the model Q3 are moderate design, and that the commodity concerned, are oriented more comfortable ride than sporty impression.
One thing is certain, the cockpit of the Audi is more dedicated to older and more serious riders, which is the first convenience, while Mercedes great choice for young people, who appreciate sporty flair and attractive design. Using the popular terms, put it this way - the average driver of the Audi Q3 probably wearing Nike sneakers or "old woman", while the first choice of the customer Mercedes GLA models of shoes for the upcoming season.
Both models were equipped with engines of similar power, "paired" with a seven-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel. Performance is similar, and slight differences in acceleration and elasticity are completely negligible. Audi is something more comfortable, while the Mercedes model "obedient" in curves. Also, the engine štutgartskog figurehead could be a bit quieter.
In short, in the run, these two models follow the philosophy that outline the exterior design and interior. Besides somewhat lower rates, although not entirely new on the market, one of the advantages of the Audi model is the engine, which does not exceed the volume of two liters, so that it has considerably more favorable when the group registration costs in question, in contrast to the Mercedes. And who is better? This time you will have to decide!
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