Toyota Prius V vs Mercedes-Benz GLA45

What's the difference?

I could use three words to describe this car: Toyota, family, hybrid… A fourth word comes to mind, which begins with 'b' and ends in 'oring'…

That might seem harsh, but this isn’t what I’d describe as an aspirational purchase. If you do aspire to a Prius V, though, you’re probably either a hardcore Toyota fan, someone who has a large family, or someone who likes hybrids.

But then again, if you are a potential Toyota Prius V buyer, you could also be one of the smarter examples of our species. While only about 3000 Aussies have chosen a Prius V since it went on sale in 2012, it’s a very, very clever option for family buyers who want to do their bit for the environment, not to mention their own hip pocket.

The Prius V is the most affordable seven-seat hybrid vehicle on the market, and in terms of price, it competes with mainstream models like the Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail. But what about space? Practicality? Performance? Let’s take a deeper look, shall we?

You have to feel a bit sorry for the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S. After all, it shares the same platform and engine as the A 45 S and CLA 45 S, but gets none of the limelight.

Maybe it’s because it’s a small SUV, and by virtue of pure physics, it will never be as fast or fun as its two cousins.

But what it does offer is practicality, thanks to a larger boot and comfort, due to its increased suspension travel.

Wouldn’t this make it a better buy then?

We spend some time behind the wheel of the second-generation Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S to see if can truly have its cake, and eat it too.