The Best Mercedes-Benz SUV Units Worth $50,000 And Under In 2024
Giancarlo Perlas December 8, 2023The three-pointed star marque offers the best of all worlds when it comes to power, driving dynamics, safety, innovation, and luxury. If you’re shopping around for one within a limited budget in the USA, we got you covered here. You might want to start your search with the Mercedes-Benz SUV units valued at $50,000 MSRP and under that will give you a bang for your buck.
Mercedes-Benz GLA
The GLA, starting at $37,500, gives you the best entry point when looking for a Mercedes-Benz SUV. The base model, the GLA 250, is highlighted by its nimble form, smooth ride, and comfortable seats. It does not disappoint with its high-class interior showcasing leather upholstery, multi-function steering wheel, and digital displays with advanced tech. In contrast to its competition like the BMW X1’s iDrive system, MBUX features a more intuitive and user-friendly control amplified by its adaptive voice command capabilities.
The GLA 250 packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. All that power is managed via an eight-speed transmission and directed to a front-wheel-drive system. These propel the auto from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds.
Throw in $2,000 more and you’ll get the 4MATIC version that will provide an all-wheel-drive system to bump up its acceleration from 0 to 60 mph by 0.2 seconds into 6.6 seconds. If you’re concerned with the rising fuel costs, you can be rest assured with the vehicle’s combined 28 mpg.
The bad news about the GLA SUV is that most of its advanced elements are optional, meaning you will have to fork out more cash to get the special packages. Some may find it lacking in cargo space, too.
It should be noted that Mercedes-Benz is rolling out an updated model of the GLA coming in the fall of 2024. The price of the crossover is yet to be announced as of this writing, but its base trim is estimated to cost around $38,000.
The auto is expected to get some subtle styling updates on its fascia and rear along with a new 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity and mild-hybrid powertrains.
Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
The good news is that with $650 more added to your $50 grand, you can already get the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. Well, this already exceeds the budget we have set, but it may be worth your consideration to add just a few hundred bucks to experience the best entry point of Mercedes’ high-performance division in the SUV segment.
The AMG GLA 35 has all the goodies found in the Benz trims but elevates them more with its sportier stance and styling in and out. It is equipped with AMG’s signature Panamericana grille with vertical slats and 19-inch wheels.
Performance wise the AMG GLA 35 offers 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to propel it from 0 to 60 mph in only 5.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph.
Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV
The Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV is your go-to when looking for a compromise between the GLA and the GLC. What elevates it from the competition is its fusion of practicality in its luxurious and comfortable interior, providing a third row of seats for an extra two passengers.
There are two facelifted trims you can buy under $50,000 in the range, namely the GLB 250 taking off at $40,950, and the GLB 250 4MATIC beginning at $42,950. Both are equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
They utilize the same eight-speed automatic transmission, but the only difference is in their drivetrain wherein the base GLB 250 has a front-wheel drive while the 4MATIC version has an all-wheel drive. These SUVs are good for a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 6.9 seconds. When it comes to fuel use, the vehicle promises a combined consumption of 27 mpg.
The GLB is a bit boxier than the other classes in this list, so it may not be as appealing or aerodynamic as the two. But then again, this positions it as a class of its own, which may be suited to the taste of some buyers.
Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is probably the most fan favorite among these choices, as suggested by reviews and sales figures. This comes in hot on this list because it just got a new generation model for 2023.
The SUV falls on your $50K budget with a starting price of $48,600 for the GLC 300. The GLC is exemplified by its smooth and efficient power delivery, sophisticated interior, and lots of advanced tech functionality.
The GLC possesses a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four power unit delivering a total output of 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This one comes with a nine-speed automatic with a rear-wheel-drive system. The configuration lets it rip from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 6.2 seconds. This one has the same fuel economy as the GLB with its combined 27 mpg rating.
If you’re willing to dish out an extra $600 to your funds, you can purchase the GLC 300 4MATIC that will net you the all-wheel-drive spec variant for better driving experience.
Final Thoughts
Each one of these Mercedes-Benz SUV models has its stand-out qualities tailored for varying buyer preferences or needs. In a nutshell, the GLA is the most compact of the bunch, and with only a bit of a stretch on your budget, you can already get its AMG GLA 35 model. The GLB’s boxy body makes it distinct and its three-row seating gives it more passenger capacity. The GLC, on the other hand, is the most popular among the choices with its balance of luxury and performance.
