Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just launched the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35, priced at RM 363,137 (OTR without insurance, including SST incentive).

As the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 has yet to arrive in Malaysia, its closest competitor in the compact SUV segment at the moment would be the BMW X2 M35i, priced at RM 398,800 (OTR without insurance, with SST).

Which is the better choice on paper? Let's find out.

Powertrain – BMW X2 M35i is quicker on paper

The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is powered by the M260 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 306 PS/400 Nm, mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to all four wheels via the 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Claimed 0-100 km/h sprint time is 5.2 seconds, onwards to a limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The BMW X2 M35i on the other hand, features the B48 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes an identical 306 PS but more torque at 450 Nm. An 8-speed automatic transmission transfers power to all corners via the xDrive system.

0-100 km/h is claimed to be done and dusted in 4.9 seconds and top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

Exterior – Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is considerably larger

The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is significantly larger than the BMW X2 M35i. In terms of exterior dimensions, the GLB is closer to the mid-size luxury SUV segment – the Mercedes-Benz GLC or BMW X3.

Both are shod with 20-inch wheels, but the GLB 35 wears 255/40 profile rubbers while the X2 M35i wears 225/40 profile tyres.

Interior – Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 takes the cake

The BMW X2 M35i shares the same interior as the BMW X1, which made its debut a little over 5 years ago and it’s starting to show its age.

Its 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment display doesn’t come with Apple CarPlay as standard. Audio is fed through the 12-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system.

In the Mercedes-Benz GLB 35, it looks bang up-to-date, especially with the dual widescreen dominating the dashboard and ambient lighting. 

The GLB 35 gets a larger 10.25-inch screen for the infotainment system, which runs on MBUX with Mercedes Me functions and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity. Sound comes from the Burmester surround sound system.

Safety features – Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is the clear winner

The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 gets Blind Spot Assist (BSM), Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist (AEB), and Pre-Safe system.

The BMW X2 M35i gets the mandatory suite of passive safety features such as 6 airbags and stability control. But there’s no Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Conclusion – Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 wins on paper

On paper, the Mercedes AMG GLB 35 presents a more compelling overall package than the BMW X2 M35i. It’s less expensive, larger, has a better interior and crucially, comes with ADAS.

However, it may be a different story when it comes to driving experience. Which is why we'd always recommend taking both cars out for a test drive before deciding.