BMW X2 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
Too close to call on resale: both keep about 61% of their value over three years. Decide on the deal, not the badge.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| X2 | GLA | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 889 738 | R 852 333 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 15 551/m | R 14 897/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 80% | 80% |
| Retained after 3 years | 61% | 61% |
| Value after 3 years | R 544 728 | R 521 828 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 345 010 | R 330 505 |
| Value after 5 years | R 406 460 | R 389 373 |
| Our tier | Premium (established) | Premium (established) |
BMW X2 →
The X2 arrived in South Africa in 2018 as a style-led take on the X1, and the 2024 second generation grew into a proper coupe SUV shape. It sells in far smaller numbers than the X1. Expect slightly faster depreciation than its more practical sibling.
Known for: coupe styling on x1 underpinnings
Mercedes-Benz GLA →
The GLA is Mercedes' entry SUV locally and one of its better sellers. Its second generation adopted a more upright stance that broadened its appeal against the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Resale is reasonable by premium compact standards thanks to steady demand.
Known for: entry mercedes suv volume seller
Common questions
Which holds value better, the BMW X2 or the Mercedes-Benz GLA?
They are close to inseparable: 61% vs 61% retained after three years. Buy on price, spec and the deal you can get, not on resale.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The BMW X2 loses about R 345 010 over three years and the Mercedes-Benz GLA loses about R 330 505. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the BMW X2 runs about R 15 551 per month and the Mercedes-Benz GLA about R 14 897, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.