2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250
$9,805 less and awd vs 2 MPG better and 40 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,805 price gap, 181 vs 221 hp, 27 vs 29 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Big Bend leads on $9,805 less, AWD. The GLA GLA 250 leads on 2 MPG better, 40 more hp. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,695 | $41,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 221 hp |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 13.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,604 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.4" |
| Length | 172.7" | 173.6" |
| Width | 74.3" | 72.2" |
| Height | 70.2" | 63.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend starts at $31,695, $9,805 less than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 at $41,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $173/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,805 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel; the extra 40 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 produces 221 hp, 40 more than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 also leads in torque at 258 lb-ft vs 190 lb-ft. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend, FWD on the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250.
Is the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend bigger than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 is 0.9″ longer at 173.6″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Ford Bronco Sport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz GLA trims
Bronco Sport vs GLA: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $9,805 gap adds up to $173/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 has 40 more hp (221 vs 181), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 adds 68 more lb-ft of torque (258 vs 190), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend comes with AWD; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Bronco Sport vs GLA
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when you want to keep $9,805 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel. At $173/month more, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA GLA 250 needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Mercedes-Benz or any dealership.