Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 180 Urban (2016) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 180 Urban (2016) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 180 Urban (2016) Mercedes-Benz ₱2,450,000 | BYD Tang DM-i (2026) BYD ₱2,148,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2016 | 2026 |
| Warranty | Unlimited/2-years | 6 years or 150,000 km |
| Availability | Discontinued | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1595cc | 1498cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged & Intercooled | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Gas | PHEV |
| Max Power | 122 PS @ 5000 rpm | 271 PS |
| Max Torque | 200 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm | 315 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed DCT | Automatic 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Crossover | Midsize Crossover SUV |
| Segment | J | Crossover |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | 2+3+2 |
| Length (mm) | 4417 | 4870 |
| Width (mm) | 1804 | 1950 |
| Height (mm) | 1494 | 1720 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2699 | 2820 |
| Exterior Colors | — | Moonstone Grey, Pearl White, and Silver Sand Black |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 2130 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 53 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Spring strut and control arm | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Control arm and trailing arm | Multi-link with Coil Spring |
| Front Wheels | 18 Light Alloy | 20 |
| Rear Wheels | 18 Light Alloy | 20 |
| Front Tires | 235/50R18 | 255/55R20 |
| Rear Tires | 235/50R18 | 255/55R20 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Solid Disc |
| Steering Type | hydraulic | EPS |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Steering Column | — | Tilt & Telescope |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | No |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | No |
| Stability Control | Yes | No |
| Traction Control | No | No |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | Yes |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Yes |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | No |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| Passenger Airbag | No | No |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | No |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | Yes |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | Electronic | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | Yes | No |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | No | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | No |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | Yes | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | No |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | No |
| iPod Support | Yes | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Speakers | — | 12 |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | BI – Xenon | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | No |
| Daytime Running Lights | No | Yes |
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class GLA 180 Urban (2016) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer, the choice between the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban and the 2026 BYD Tang DM-i comes down to priorities. The BYD Tang DM-i is significantly more affordable at ₱2,148,000 vs ₱2,450,000 for the GLA, offers over double the power (271 PS vs 122 PS), and has a PHEV drivetrain for better fuel efficiency. It also seats seven (2+3+2) compared to the GLA's five, making it far more practical for families. The BYD benefits from a current model year and a 6-year/150,000 km warranty, whereas the GLA is discontinued with a 2-year unlimited warranty. However, the GLA may appeal to those seeking a compact luxury crossover with a premium badge and a 7-speed DCT. Given the Tang's lower price, more power, newer technology, longer warranty, and extra seating, it is the better choice for most Filipino buyers looking for value and versatility. Only consider the GLA if you prioritize the Mercedes brand, prefer a smaller crossover, and are comfortable with a used, discontinued model.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper between the Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban and the BYD Tang DM-i?
The BYD Tang DM-i is cheaper at ₱2,148,000 compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban at ₱2,450,000.
Which car has more power?
The BYD Tang DM-i has 271 PS and 315 Nm of torque, significantly more than the Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban's 122 PS and 200 Nm.
How many seats does each vehicle have?
The Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban seats 5 (2+3), while the BYD Tang DM-i seats 7 (2+3+2).
Which is better for daily commuting in terms of fuel efficiency?
The BYD Tang DM-i is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), offering better fuel efficiency and electric-only driving for daily commutes, whereas the Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 Urban is a gasoline-only vehicle.