If you’re looking for a compact premium SUV around the RM 250k price point, these are some of the options; the Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Volvo XC40.

To keep things on a level playing field, we’re picking the variants that are priced closest to the RM 250k mark; the Lexus UX 200 Urban, Mercedes-Benz GLA 200, and Volvo XC40 T5. Here’s a quick buying guide to help in your buying decision.

Lexus UX 200 Urban

Based on the Lexus GA-C platform, the Lexus UX is the newest entry to its segment and is powered by the M20A-FKS 2.0-litre engine with 171 PS and a maximum torque of 205 Nm, paired to a Direct Shift CVT that spins the front wheels.

The Lexus UX’s interior feels the most special out of the bunch here with the layered design, selection of materials, and Japanese craftsmanship. But as its size suggests, the cabin can feel a little cramped compared to the other two.

In terms of safety, it gets the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) which assists the driver with Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go function and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) that keeps the UX centred within its lane. However, the Urban variant does lose out on rear-cross traffic alert (RCTA) and blind spot monitor (BSM).

To drive, the Lexus UX feels agile yet surefooted through the bends, and its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre around tight spaces. It has a fluid ride quality and is undoubtedly the most comfortable of the three here, with superb composure through nasty tarmacs.

The powertrain may not impress in terms of outright acceleration, but it’s punchy enough when you put your foot down during overtakes and carries its own weight rather well. Plus, it actually makes more power than the GLA 200 despite being naturally aspirated.

Also read: 2023 Lexus UX updated: Malaysia-bound compact SUV receives upgraded performance and safety

Mercedes-Benz GLA 200

Like all modern Mercedes-Benzes, the GLA’s interior presentation is where it shines. There are turbine-styled air vents with dual widescreen displays taking centre stage of the dashboard, plus the 64-colour ambient lighting that lifts the cabin ambiance.

It was recently updated with Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, complementing the Autonomous Emergency Braking.

Unfortunately for the GLA 200, it’s the only one here without adaptive cruise control in this company.

Also read: 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA now costs up to RM 9k more, but adds LKA, wireless charger

The GLA 200 rides on Comfort suspension and 18-inch wheels wrapped with relatively chunky 235/55 profile rubbers, but don’t expect a pillowy ride as it’s on the firmer side. It’s still decently balanced in terms of comfort and handling, but it doesn’t flow along undulations quite as expertly as the Lexus UX.

And while the 1.33-litre turbocharged engine (163 PS/250 Nm) does have a decent amount of pull at city speeds, it starts to feel a little wheezy at triple-digit speeds. As such, the GLA 200 more suited as an urban cruiser.

Also read: Pros and Cons: Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 CKD – Lovely interior design but feels basic

Volvo XC40 T5

Finally, we move on to the most powerful car here, the Volvo XC40 T5 with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine churning out 252 PS/350 Nm that is routed to all four wheels (AWD) via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Unsurprisingly, the XC40 feels quick and with AWD in its armoury, traction is available in abundance. It’s capable in the bends but unlike the Lexus UX, its chassis doesn’t feel as fluid in dealing with lumps and bumps. As a result, the XC40 trails the UX in ride comfort.

Inside, the front seats are firm but supportive. The rear seats, however, are rather small and the seatback can be too upright for some. In terms of storage spaces though, the XC40 trumps the rest with large door pockets and clever storage solutions.

Safety wise, the XC40 leads this pack with the suite IntelliSafe that includes AEB, LKA, CTA, BLIS, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, and Run-off Road Mitigation. There’s also Pilot Assist, a level 2 semi-autonomous driving feature.

Also read: Malaysia to get the new Volvo XC40 facelift in 2023; Differences vs 2022 model here

Comparison in features

Conclusion

As is always the case of comparisons, each car has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The Lexus rides and handles a cut above the rest and has a plush interior but falls behind in terms of space and because it’s fully imported (CBU), the Lexus UX isn’t as competitively priced for the features it offers.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 has one the best interior in its class in terms of design, space, and practicality. However, it does come out short when it comes to advanced safety systems against the Lexus UX and Volvo XC40.

The Volvo XC40 T5 offers the most power and has the most comprehensive list of safety kit, while being similarly priced. But it’s not as comfortable nor as pleasant to drive as the Lexus UX despite being the most powerful.

With all that said, which of these would you go for?