X1 vs GLB
The X1 and the GLB compete for the same spot on your shortlist, with BMW and Mercedes-Benz each making its case. Lay the spec sheets side by side and you’ll see more overlap than contrast.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance X1 wins
- Fuel Economy & Range Tie
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance7.5
- Fuel Economy & Range5.3
- Engine & Performance4.9
- Fuel Economy & Range5.4
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The X1 has 20 hp more power
Close, but not identical: the X1 lists 241 hp and the GLB lists 221 hp. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The X1 has 37 lb-ft more torque
The gap on torque is slim (295 lb-ft against 258 lb-ft), yet it tips toward the X1. The X1’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
X1 leads
On engine & performance, the gap between these two is wide, and it favors the X1. The X1 answers with 20 hp more power. The X1’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. In short, the X1 is the better-equipped car for engine & performance.
Total system output
X1: 241 hp GLB: 221 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
X1: 295 lb-ft GLB: 258 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Fuel Economy & Range
Too close to call
Evenly matched is the fairest summary of the fuel economy & range section. In short, fuel economy & range is a draw; the decision lies elsewhere.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Call the space & practicality round a draw. Bottom line for space & practicality: it’s a wash.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s no meaningful winner in the off-road & towing section; the two are too close to separate. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the X1 and the GLB differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | X1 | GLB |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 241 hp (winner) | 221 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch | 8-speed dual-clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | FWD (4MATIC AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | X1 | GLB |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | 24 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 33 mpg | 33 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | X1 | GLB |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 25.7 cu ft Biggest cargo area | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 57.2 cu ft Most room, seats folded | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | X1 | GLB |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | X1 | GLB |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the X1 if…
- you want more power (241 hp vs 221 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft of torque)
- you already know your way around BMW’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the X1 or the GLB?
On the specs compared here, the X1 makes more sense for most buyers; the GLB doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
BMW makes the X1, Mercedes-Benz makes the GLB, and both want the same spot on your shortlist. Here’s where I land. The X1 earns my vote first and foremost with 20 hp more power.
I’d match them like this: engine & performance to the X1, the things a spec sheet can’t capture to the GLB.
My pick: the X1.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.