Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was a modernized entry-level SUV in the Mercedes lineup, positioned as the smallest SUV below the GLS, GLE, GLC, and GLB. Its proportions and styling were designed to fit comfortably within the subcompact class, with a wheelbase and exterior measurements that placed it on the larger side of this category. The GLA was 7.6 centimetres taller and 1.2 cm shorter in length than its predecessor, featuring short overhangs and cladding that contributed to its muscular look. Despite its small windows, the seating positions provided ample visibility, and LED headlights were standard. Inside, the GLA 250 had less-than-premium surfaces, though the seats were well-appointed. However, the interior did not measure up to other luxury crossovers, with mass-market models offering nicer interiors for a similar price.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available exclusively in Sport design grades in Canada, including the SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with the GR Sport featuring an assertive grille and rear diffuser that extended its length by nearly five centimetres. The RAV4 adopted a boxy, truck-like presence with square lines and bulging fenders. Sport trims featured gloss black accents and racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the GR Sport had red stitching on black upholstery and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The touchscreen system was either 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch, with a streamlined design. The GR Sport trim sat lower than other grades, enhancing its sporty handling.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was offered in three variants: the GLA 250 4MATIC, AMG GLA 35, and AMG GLA 45. The GLA 250 4MATIC featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The AMG GLA 35 had an enhanced 2.0-litre engine with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The AMG GLA 45 increased power to 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds. The GLA's AWD system offered various drive modes, and the AMG models included additional performance features. However, the GLA 250 experienced turbo lag and road noise, with a less tight turning circle compared to competitors.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's power increased to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It offered an estimated 80 km electric range and standard AWD. The RAV4 PHEV had multiple driving modes, including EV, Auto, Hybrid, and Charge, with seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim had enhanced handling with a lower ride height and beefier suspension. Despite its weight, the RAV4 PHEV provided a spirited ride with improved structural rigidity for a quieter experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a more SUV-like seating position with easy ingress and egress. Front passengers enjoyed excellent headroom and legroom, while the rear seats provided more legroom than before. The GLA had a 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat configuration and synthetic leather upholstery. Cargo capacity was 435 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,430 litres with the seats folded. The low load floor and available power liftgate facilitated cargo handling.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, with optimized interior storage. The base SE had power-adjustable heated front seats, while higher trims featured SofTex upholstery and ventilated seats. The RAV4's interior included clever storage solutions, such as multiple shelves and deep door pockets. It accommodated four passengers comfortably, with 960 millimetres of rear legroom. Cargo space was 951 litres, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The PHEV had a flat cargo floor and a temporary spare tire.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 7.0-inch display screens. It included four USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Burmester audio system, and wireless charging. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with voice-activated controls and a car-wash function.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a 12.9-inch option on top trims. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. The system had customizable tiles and improved graphics, powered by Toyota's Arene operating system. The Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts, and the system provided charging information for the PHEV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA included standard safety features like a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, the GLA's safety features were less comprehensive compared to more affordable SUVs.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Standard systems included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The RAV4's safety enhancements aimed to improve detection and responsiveness, with a strong safety record expected.