BMW X1 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLB: Complete comparison 2026

BMW X1 represents a dynamic entry point into the world of premium compact SUVs from the Munich-based brand, successfully combining sporty driving characteristics with elegant design and modern technology. On the other side of the fence stands the Mercedes-Benz GLB, which, thanks to its characteristic boxy shape, offers unrivaled interior space in its class and even a highly practical seven-seat configuration option. The following comparison will take a detailed look at the strengths and weaknesses of both these representatives and help you find out which of these luxury family cruisers will better suit your daily needs.

When comparing the exterior dimensions of these two premium SUVs on the used car market, you will encounter fundamental differences that clearly define their distinct characters. The Mercedes-Benz GLB (in the relevant 247 generation) measures 4,634 mm in length, which means it is noticeably 129 to 187 mm longer than BMW X1 models from the 2020 to 2023 period (F48 generation and the succeeding U11). This dimensional advantage gives the Mercedes a more robust appearance, which visually leans more towards traditional family cruisers. In practice, this means that while the BMW X1 offers significantly better agility and easier parking in crowded city streets, the Mercedes represents a more attractive choice for those who prefer maximum interior volume at the expense of absolute compactness.

Another key parameter that deepens the differences between the two models is the wheelbase. The Mercedes-Benz GLB boasts a value of 2,829 mm, confidently outperforming the BMW X1, whose wheelbase ranges between 2,670 mm (older F48 generation) and 2,692 mm (newer U11). The width of both vehicles, on the other hand, is comparable – for the BMW, we find values of 1,821 to 1,845 mm, while the Mercedes has a width of 1,834 mm. The significantly longer wheelbase combined with a taller body structure (1,658 to 1,692 mm for the GLB compared to a maximum of 1,642 for the X1) means that the GLB can offer more longitudinal space and even allows for the installation of an optional third row of seats. Therefore, if you frequently transport adult passengers in the rear seats or are looking for a flexible solution for a larger family, the wheelbase parameters clearly play in favor of the Mercedes.

When evaluating the overall proportions, it becomes clear how differently both automakers approached the construction of a compact SUV. The BMW X1 maintains a sportier, more crouched stance with athletic features, which has a positive effect on its more dynamic performance and lower center of gravity. Conversely, the boxier and more vertical build of the Mercedes GLB maximizes spatial efficiency on a given footprint. When choosing from roughly four-year-old used cars, the exterior dimensions serve as a great guide – those interested in a driver-focused and daily more agile car should go for the BMW X1, while families requiring maximum practicality without compromise will logically prefer the spatially more generous GLB.

When choosing a premium family SUV, trunk capacity often plays a key role, and it is in this discipline that the different approaches of the two automakers are revealed. While the BMW X1 focuses on a balanced compromise between a dynamic body shape and practicality, the Mercedes-Benz GLB bets on much more boxy shapes that maximize overall interior space. For families, this has a very fundamental practical impact. While the more compact Munich representative is fully sufficient for weekend shopping and longer holidays for four, the Stuttgart model, thanks to its higher roof and overall concept, offers space for several extra suitcases, which brings far greater peace of mind and flexibility when packing oversized items such as strollers or sports equipment.

Looking at specific numbers for used vehicles around four years old, we encounter the transition of the widely represented F48 generation (produced until 2022) and the newer, incoming U11 generation for the BMW X1. The older F48 version has a solid basic trunk with a volume of 505 liters, which can be increased to 1550 liters after folding the rear seats. The newer U11 generation then slightly improved in terms of interior spaciousness to 540 liters, or 1600 liters of maximum usable space. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLB (generation 247) has set the bar significantly higher since its introduction. In the standard five-seater version, its luggage compartment swallows a respectable 570 liters, and when the second row of seats is completely folded down, a moving space with a volume of up to 1805 liters is created.

When buying on the used car market, however, it is essential to carefully check the chosen specification, as specific equipment versions can take a bite out of the total available space. For the GLB model, customers very often opt for the optional third row of seats. In this seven-seater variant, the basic volume (with the rear seats folded in the trunk) is reduced to 500 liters and the maximum space drops to 1680 liters. Similar compromises await those interested in plug-in hybrid powertrains for the BMW X1 (xDrive25e or xDrive30e models). The installation of batteries reduces the depth of the trunk, causing the volume to drop to 450 liters (F48 generation) or 490 liters (U11 generation). Fortunately, both SUVs score points for practicality in the form of sliding rear seats, which allow for a seamless change in the ratio between passenger and luggage space.

Both premium compact models represent surprisingly capable towing vehicles, which is a key parameter for many buyers when choosing a versatile family SUV. The maximum weight of the towed trailer determines not only whether you can transport heavy building materials without issue, but also whether the car will reliably serve for towing a medium-sized caravan or a boat for a summer holiday. In this regard, both vehicles, approximately four years old, offer very similar, highly competitive values.

For standard internal combustion engines, the braked trailer weight ranges from 1700 to 2000 kg. Weaker front-wheel-drive versions of the BMW X1 (such as the sDrive18i or sDrive18d) can handle a load between 1700 and 1800 kg. However, if you opt for more powerful units with xDrive all-wheel drive (for example, the xDrive20d or xDrive25d), you reach the maximum limit of 2000 kg. The rival Mercedes-Benz GLB in the sought-after GLB 250 specification also boasts a towing capacity of 2000 kg, while even potentially weaker engines easily reach 1800 kg. The value for an unbraked trailer is identical for both manufacturers at the obligatory 750 kg, which is perfectly sufficient for a standard trailer for a weekend trip to a DIY store or for hauling garden waste.

Significant differences in practicality arise, however, if you start looking for alternative powertrains on the used car market. If you choose the plug-in hybrid BMW X1 xDrive25e from the F48 generation (produced until 2022), the maximum braked trailer weight drops drastically to just 750 kg. While you can easily attach an e-bike rack to such a car, you cannot legally tow a family caravan behind it due to the weight of the batteries. This situation was rectified by the newer generation of the BMW X1 (U11 from 2022), where the capacity for hybrids rose to a much more practical 1700 to 1800 kg. For the electrified representative of the Mercedes-Benz family (the GLB 250+ EQ version), the towing capacity settled at a solid 1500 kg.

From an overall perspective, the strengths are very balanced. When choosing classic internal combustion engines, both cars handle exactly the same load and serve as excellent family workhorses. The deciding factor for purchasing an older used car will therefore primarily be whether you are considering a more eco-friendly plug-in hybrid – as the previous generation of the BMW X1 has a significant handicap in that area, which is important to know before buying.

Both premium manufacturers approach the range of powertrains from a slightly different angle, giving those interested in a family SUV a wide range of choices. While the BMW X1 has long relied on a precise driving experience, a wider range of versions, and a clear transition to electrified models, the Mercedes-Benz GLB profiles itself more as an exceptionally comfortable long-distance cruiser with finely tuned automatics without overly sporty compromises. For both cars, a proper two-litre diesel (typically 18d and 20d for BMW or 200 d and 220 d for Mercedes) makes the most sense for frequent long-distance travel, ensuring unrivalled fuel consumption and excellent durability on the used car market. The entry-level petrol models, on the other hand, differ significantly in terms of design. BMW puts its trust in a smaller turbocharged three-cylinder (1.5 l in the 18i model), whereas Mercedes relies on a more refined four-cylinder (1.33 l in the GLB 200 model). If you are aiming for the latest technology, BMW accelerated the development of advanced mild-hybrids and powerful plug-in hybrid systems with the arrival of the latest generation, where Mercedes tended to lag behind with older GLB models.

BMW X1

In the range of approximately four-year-old used BMW X1 cars, you will find an interesting mix – the final and highly refined years of the extremely popular F48 generation (production ran until summer 2022) meet the technically advanced succeeding U11 generation. As production history data reveals, classic internal combustion engines predominated in the older generation. For example, the very popular, purely internal combustion 20i versions without hybrid assistance became a thing of the past after production ended in 2022 and were largely replaced in the U11 generation by more advanced mild-hybrid technologies such as the 23i and 23d. These newer engines feature an electric boost that effectively fills the "turbo lag" at lower revs. However, the proven diesel versions 18d (110 kW) and 20d (140 kW) remain the absolute benchmark on the market, scoring points for long-term reliability. Most used cars in our region feature a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a classic eight-speed torque converter, while a manual gearbox in a four-year-old car is now only found very exceptionally, primarily in the entry-level diesel variants of the F48 generation.

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Compared to BMW, the range of powertrains for the GLB generation (X247, sold since late 2019) is more straightforward. Customers and those interested in a family car will especially appreciate the absence of manual transmissions – absolutely all models from this period rely on precise dual-clutch automatics. The entry-level point is the GLB 200 petrol specification, combining a smaller displacement with a fast 7G-DCT gearbox. More demanding families with a fully loaded car should look towards the more dynamic GLB 250 with a pure two-litre engine producing 165 kW. From a production history perspective, however, these more powerful non-hybrid two-litre engines gradually phased out of the market around May 2023 and were slowly replaced by an electrified range as part of the car's facelift. The main hit in the field of premium used cars for long distances at Mercedes are the unrivalled diesels from the OM 654 family, especially the 200 d and 220 d variants. Furthermore, both models can very often be found with the top-tier 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Thanks to the tuning with the finely-stepped 8G-DCT transmission, the diesel GLB offers an exceptionally smooth ride, which fully lives up to the car's reputation as being designed primarily for peaceful family travel.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with a car, which is why our recommendations are based on real-world dynamics, actual fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. In terms of design, both cars with transversely mounted engines follow a similar path, but with interesting specifics. The BMW X1 generation F48 marked a historic transition for the Bavarian brand to the UKL front-wheel-drive platform (which, while suppressing the original oversteer character, radically increased interior space), while Mercedes-Benz squeezed a wheelbase almost identical to the larger GLC SUV into the compact GLB model, creating a unique car in its class capable of accommodating up to seven passengers. For the market of approximately four-year-old used cars (around the 2022 model year), we recommend focusing on the proven peaks of the two-liter units of the time, which combine confidence with sophisticated technology.

Database Note: As evidenced by the available years parameter, the mentioned non-hybrid generations – BMW X1 F48 (xDrive20d, produced until 08/2022) and the pre-facelift version of the Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC (until 05/2023) – are no longer produced in this form as new cars. However, in the market for four-year-old nearly new used cars, they represent an absolute ideal for buyers, with "teething troubles" ironed out and without complex additional electrification systems.

For the BMW X1, we recommend: xDrive20d (140 kW / 190 hp)

For the F48 generation model, the absolute ideal is the two-liter diesel xDrive20d from the B47 engine family, which represents a perfectly balanced and all-round economical engine choice in the nearly new used car market. It excels with a massive 400 Nm of torque starting from very low revs, making the operation of even a fully loaded SUV exceptionally relaxed. Real-world combined and highway fuel consumption easily stays between 5.5 and 6.5 l/100 km. From a technical standpoint, engineers resolved previous timing mechanism issues with the B47 block, so the engine is now considered one of the most reliable in the brand's history.

What to watch out for: Since it is a diesel unit, constant city driving does not allow for sufficient regeneration of the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can lead to premature clogging. Occasional problems with a clogged EGR valve are also known. How to tell: Focus on listening to the engine's operation immediately after a cold start – the idle must not fluctuate, and the pull during sharp acceleration must be perfectly linear without jerking. Follow a shortened oil change service interval of 15,000 km.

This specification, with its excellent automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive, is perfect for highway travelers, weekenders, and families with high annual mileage who appreciate the stability of all-wheel drive.

For the Mercedes-Benz GLB, we recommend: 250 4MATIC (165 kW / 224 hp)

Given the composition of the classified ads and used car data specifications, the GLB 250 4MATIC gasoline engine, standardly paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch 8G-DCT transmission, proves to be an exceptionally attractive and dynamic choice for Mercedes. Although this family SUV has a heavier and boxy body shape, the two-liter gasoline engine gives it almost sporty dynamics (acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 6.9 s). For a buyer of a nearly new car, a major advantage is the absence of a complex diesel emission system, making it a much better candidate for shorter trips. The price for performance is a slightly higher average fuel consumption, which in the real world ranges around 8 to 9 l/100 km.

What to watch out for: Direct injection engines suffer from carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can be successfully prevented by using fuel additives and regular more dynamic drives outside the city. For this specific model and approximately four years of age, it is also absolutely crucial to check the service book to see if the prescribed oil change in the 8G-DCT transmission was performed at 60,000 km. How to tell: A neglected or worn transmission reveals itself through slight jerking, delays during slow starts, or a jolt when changing the driving mode between reverse (R) and drive (D).

This top-tier gasoline version will particularly appeal to more dynamically minded drivers and suburban families, for whom the diesel equivalent would slowly clog up due to the drawbacks of heavy city traffic.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often differ significantly from what drivers experience in everyday use. This is doubly true for family SUVs with a taller body structure and greater aerodynamic drag, such as the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLB. To get an accurate and fair picture of how fuel-efficient these models actually are, we don't rely solely on laboratory measurements but use real-world data from owners themselves. For the purposes of this comparison, we focused on used cars approximately four years old (the very popular outgoing generation of the BMW X1, code-named F48, and the first model years of the Mercedes-Benz GLB, series X247). The following data is based on independent user databases, primarily the widely used crowdsourced portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects long-term averages from thousands of real-world drivers.

Source: Spritmonitor.de /

Looking at the collected data, it is clear that diesel engines perform excellently in these compact yet spacious SUVs. Popular two-liter diesels – whether the entry-level X1 18d or the GLB 200 d – consistently achieve a very solid real-world consumption of around 6.0 liters per 100 kilometers. It is also surprising and pleasing to find that more powerful versions equipped with all-wheel drive do not cause a dramatic drain on the tank, as they only require about half a liter more fuel on average. In contrast, a different trend is evident with petrol engines. Small turbocharged engines, such as the three-cylinder 18i in the BMW or the 1.3-liter 200 in the Mercedes, do not bring the savings in practice that are generally expected from a smaller displacement. Due to the higher curb weight and larger frontal area of the vehicles, their real-world average rises above 7.5 liters, and in the case of the boxier GLB, it even exceeds the 8 liters per 100 kilometers mark. For the typical user, there is a clear recommendation: if you drive mainly in the city and on short trips, petrol versions are more suitable in terms of technical reliability, but you must accept higher fuel bills. However, if you commute longer distances daily or often go on family trips on the highway, four-year-old diesel used cars from these brands make a lot of sense and will help you keep operating costs in check.

Overall, our comparison does not show any dramatic difference in efficiency between the two models themselves. Both the Munich-based BMW X1 and the Stuttgart-based Mercedes-Benz GLB offer virtually the same level of operational efficiency in the real world. Differences in fuel consumption are therefore unlikely to be the main parameter that should sway you toward one brand or the other. In the used car market, it is much more important to focus on choosing the right fuel and selecting the car whose driving characteristics and interior layout better suit your daily lifestyle.

Used Car Price Comparison

Looking at the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (model years 2021–2022) reveals an interesting price difference, driven by the different lifecycle stages of both models during that period. While the Mercedes-Benz GLB (X247 generation) was still a relatively new car on the market with advanced MBUX infotainment, the BMW X1 in its F48 version (post-facelift) was nearing the end of its production before being replaced by the new U11 generation at the turn of 2022 and 2023.

This fact naturally impacts the purchase prices on the secondary market.

Indicative Price Range (2021–2022 models)

Prices are indicative and depend on current market supply, engine, mileage, and vehicle history.

Why is the Mercedes-Benz GLB more expensive?

• More modern platform in the same model year: GLB models from 2021 and 2022 hold their value very well on the market. It is a highly current car in terms of both design and technology. Many buyers are willing to pay extra for the modern dual displays, advanced voice control, and the overall interior concept.
• Seven-seat configuration: The option of a seven-seat layout, which is a rarity in the premium compact class, increases the GLB's appeal for larger families and, consequently, its price on the used car market.
• Desirable visual packages: Vehicles equipped with the AMG Line exterior package visually evoke the brand's more robust models, such as the GLE-Class or even the iconic G-Class. These attractive-looking variants are in high demand.

Why does the BMW X1 make sense for your wallet?

• End of production cycle (F48): A four-year-old "X1" represents an exceptionally smart buy in terms of price-to-value ratio. With the arrival of the newer U11 generation, the older F48 platform saw the expected price drop. As a result, customers can get a proven and very driver-friendly premium SUV for significantly less.
• Market density: The F48 model was one of the brand's absolute sales leaders in its time. The used car market is well-supplied with them (often from ended operational leases), which naturally pushes average prices down. Many very well-maintained units can easily be found just above the €25,000 mark.

Summary Before Buying
If you have a strictly limited budget, the proven F48 generation of the BMW X1 will provide you with a genuine premium experience, excellent driving characteristics, and attractive running costs at a very reasonable price. If, on the other hand, you are looking for maximum interior flexibility, the latest technological gadgets, or occasionally need to carry up to seven people, investing in the more robust and price-stable Mercedes GLB makes clear sense.

Both of these premium family SUVs achieved the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests, confirming their excellent level of passive and active safety. When choosing a used car, however, it is absolutely crucial to view these results in the context of the time when the tests were conducted. Euro NCAP methodology has been constantly tightening over the years, and the requirements for obtaining a full star rating are growing rapidly. Therefore, percentage results from different years cannot be simply and directly compared, as newer tests include significantly more demanding crash simulations and stricter criteria for preventive safety functions.

The BMW X1 (U11 generation) underwent Euro NCAP crash tests in 2022. This means the car was tested according to modern and very strict protocols. These include innovative simulations of a frontal collision with a moving barrier, the deployment of center airbags, and very complex scenarios for autonomous emergency braking, such as improved detection of pedestrians, cyclists, or obstacles at blind intersections. The resulting five-star result is thus highly relevant for current traffic and guarantees safety at the highest technological level.

Mercedes-Benz GLB underwent safety tests in 2019, at the time of its market launch. Although it took home a full five stars and demonstrated highly above-average mechanical body resistance, testing was conducted according to an older and, from today's perspective, milder methodology. It did not yet take into account the most modern requirements for intersection assistants or the aforementioned center airbags preventing injuries between passengers.

In a detailed comparison of both cars, a generational shift is clearly evident, which is particularly reflected in the category of electronic assistants. While the Mercedes-Benz GLB offers excellent passive protection for adults (92%) from a 2019 perspective, the BMW X1, despite the significantly more demanding methodology, boasts a fantastic score of 92% for safety assist systems (compared to 74% for the GLB). This means that modern sensors, smart driving assistance, and autonomous braking in the BMW anticipate danger much better and can actively avert critical situations. Furthermore, the validity of Euro NCAP certifications typically ends after six years, which in practice means that the GLB's five-star result is at the very end of its life cycle, while the BMW certification fully complies with the latest pan-European trends.

In conclusion, while both cars provide a strong and robust structure with excellent occupant protection in an accident, the BMW X1 brings a significantly more modern and comprehensive level of safety. Its advanced assistance technologies are incomparably better equipped for collision avoidance, making it a clearly more advanced choice for modern family travel according to the latest standards.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers more than just basic functions and approaches added value in its own way, allowing these unique features to facilitate the final decision.

BMW X1: Perfect Ergonomics and Driver Focus

• Infotainment and control ergonomics: In four-year-old used cars (mainly the F48 generation after the facelift), users can rely on the exceptionally intuitive iDrive system. Its main advantage is the physical rotary controller on the center console, which allows for safe and precise menu navigation even while driving, without the need to constantly watch the touchscreen.
• Practicality and smart variability: Split and folding rear seats in a 40:20:40 ratio are standard on many versions. A very useful feature for everyday use is the optional sliding rear bench (by up to 13 cm), which allows for seamless adjustment between passenger legroom and luggage capacity according to current needs.
• Driving characteristics and xDrive technology: BMW maintains its typical sporty character even in the SUV category. The smart xDrive all-wheel-drive system can lightning-fast redistribute torque between the axles, which, combined with precise steering, provides exceptional confidence and agility on winding backroads and wet surfaces.
• Sport packages and equipment: Customers often look for cars with the popular M Sport package. This not only livens up the exterior appearance with more aggressive aerodynamic elements but, above all, brings sport seats with adjustable side bolsters for perfect body support and a stiffer, sportier-tuned suspension.

Mercedes-Benz GLB: A Space Miracle and Technological Avant-Garde

• Unique capacity and space: Thanks to its characteristic, slightly boxy design, the GLB clearly stands out from the rest of its class. A absolutely crucial advantage is the option of a third row of seats, making it one of the few up to seven-seater compact SUVs on the market. Although the rear seats are primarily intended for people up to 168 cm tall, they offer families immense variability.
• Advanced MBUX system: The digital cockpit, consisting of a pair of optically linked displays, houses the MBUX system, which excels with an advanced voice assistant responding to natural commands (e.g., turning on the heating with the phrase "Hey Mercedes, I'm cold"). The technological highlight is the augmented reality (AR) navigation, which projects directional arrows directly onto the live image from the front camera.
• Comfort and visibility: Like its Bavarian competitor, the GLB also offers a longitudinally sliding second row of seats (here by as much as 14 cm) with adjustable backrest angles. Furthermore, the tall and more upright body structure ensures above-standard headroom for all passengers and excellent all-around visibility.
• Off-road ambitions and assistance: On versions with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the Off-Road Engineering package is often available. This adds a special driving mode that adjusts traction in light terrain, a downhill speed regulator for safely descending steep slopes, and a special display of the car's tilt angles on the central screen, expanding the vehicle's capabilities beyond paved roads.

The BMW X1 is an ideal choice for drivers who expect agile driving characteristics, perfect ergonomics, and traditional premium craftsmanship from a compact SUV. It will suit smaller families and couples for whom the priority is driving pleasure on backroads rather than absolute maximization of transport capacity.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB will appeal to families and drivers looking for a maximally practical and comfortable SUV that can carry up to seven people if needed. With its interior layout and emphasis on comfort, it approaches a family MPV in a more attractive off-road coat, making it an excellent car for long-distance travel.

Based on long-term owner experience, service records from authorized workshops, recalls, and findings from our comprehensive vehicle inspections, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems of both models that are worth focusing on when choosing a four- to five-year-old used car.

BMW X1

The BMW X1 from around 2020 to 2022 (code designation F48, or early units of the succeeding U11 generation) is considered a solidly built premium SUV, but even here there are specific weak points that require attention.

• Engine and Drive: For the popular two-liter diesels (B47), problems with EGR valves often appear, for which the manufacturer has issued several recalls in the past. There is also a risk of a faster-clogging diesel particulate filter (DPF) during frequent short-distance operation. For gasoline variants, minor coolant leaks occasionally occur.
• Transmission: Eight-speed Aisin automatic transmissions (with a torque converter) are mechanically very durable, but the seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes used in some engine versions can noticeably jerk when crawling in traffic jams and when starting off.
• Chassis: With increasing mileage, faster wear of the front arm bushings occurs, which typically manifests as a hollow knocking when driving over bumps.
• Electronics and Interior: A very common fault that lights up a warning light on the instrument cluster is the failure of the small backup battery of the eCall module (emergency call). Its replacement is often unnecessarily expensive due to time-consuming access under the car's headliner. Occasionally, software freezing of older versions of the iDrive system also occurs.

Mercedes-Benz GLB

The Mercedes-Benz GLB (X247 generation) offers the most modern technologies of its time as an approximately four-year-old used car, however, it struggles mainly with software ailments and certain compromises in build quality.

• Engine and Drive: For the most sought-after two-liter diesels (OM654q), owners are troubled by failing NOx sensors and more frequent problems with the AdBlue system pump, the replacement of which is financially expensive. Smaller 1.3-liter gasoline engines from the first years of production may show timing chain rattling if the previous owner overextended oil change intervals.
• Transmission: The 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission is often the subject of criticism for jerky starts, hesitation when downshifting, and overall slower reactions at low speeds. In a large number of cases, an official software update significantly improves this behavior.
• Chassis: The GLB model is extremely sensitive to correct wheel alignment. If it is not 100%, the cars tend to wear tires very quickly and unevenly.
• Electronics and Interior: Compared to BMW, owners report squeaking and various noises in the interior significantly more often, especially from door panels or the dashboard area. Screen failures of the MBUX system, sudden infotainment restarts, or non-functional voice control are also known.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Even though both models are considered reliable premium representatives, a comprehensive car inspection by an independent mechanic is the best way to avoid expensive surprises. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models.

When choosing a BMW X1:

• Automatic transmission smoothness: Most used X1s rely on an eight-speed Aisin automatic. During the test drive, focus on shifting at low speeds. Jerking when downshifting or slow acceleration can indicate wear caused by neglected oil changes (it is recommended to change the oil every 60,000 km, even if the manufacturer does not explicitly prescribe it).
• xDrive system condition: For versions equipped with all-wheel drive, try driving slowly with the wheels at full lock (for example, when turning in a parking lot). If you feel mechanical tension or hear a hum from the rear of the car, it may indicate a worn multi-plate clutch in the all-wheel-drive system.
• Play in the front axle: The BMW X1 has a sportier and stiffer suspension setup compared to its competitors. Take the car on an uneven road or over a speed bump and listen. Metallic knocking from the front is a common sign of worn control arm bushings or stabilizer links.
• Coolant leaks in diesels: If you are buying popular diesel versions (e.g., sDrive18d or xDrive20d), carefully check the coolant level. Older models of this generation suffered from leaks in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, which manifests as a gradual loss of coolant.
• Battery condition in the plug-in hybrid (xDrive25e): For the electrified variant, check the estimated pure electric range after a full charge to assess battery degradation. Additionally, during the test drive, the transition from the electric motor to the internal combustion engine should be perfectly smooth and without jerking.

When choosing a Mercedes-Benz GLB:

• 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission behavior: The automatics in the GLB can sometimes be stubborn when maneuvering at low speeds. When crawling in traffic or parking, watch if the transmission engages smoothly. Hesitation when starting or rough clutch engagement may require calibration, a software update, or indicate excessive wear.
• MBUX system responsiveness: The infotainment in a Mercedes is visually impressive, but early versions (around 2020–2021) could suffer from screen freezing or spontaneous restarts. Click through all the main functions, try the voice control, and check if the system has the latest updates that address these software issues.
• Rattles and build quality: Although the GLB is a premium car, it uses more hard plastics in the lower parts of the interior. A test drive over cobblestones or a broken road will reliably reveal any rattling from the dashboard or door panels, which is a common complaint from owners of these used cars.
• DPF condition and cold starts (diesel engines): For popular diesels like the GLB 200 d, there is a risk of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging if the previous owner used the car only for short city trips. Notice if the engine runs irregularly after a cold start and if any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard.
• Aerodynamic noise at highway speeds: Due to its distinctly boxy shape, the GLB can suffer from increased wind noise around the A-pillars and mirrors. Test the car at speeds above 110 km/h and verify that the window seals are in good condition and that the cabin noise is not distracting for you on long journeys.

Sources: ADAC, mdcr.cz, auto.cz, autotechnik.cz, auto-mania.cz, classiccars.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.