2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs the Competition

BMW states that their Sports Activity Vehicle is the choice in this segment. Although a new model is coming soon, the current one melds BMW’s signature style and environment with seating for up to five people. There are only two models available. The X3 30 xDrive is powered by a 255-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, while the M50 xDrive uses a 393-horsepower 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine. Both send their respective power to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

• BMW touts its M Performance models highly. Yet, Mercedes-Benz has two AMG® GLC SUVs – plus two SUV Coupes – to counter the single M model. Plus, all AMG® GLC models put down more power than the X3 M50 – with 416 and 671 horsepower respectively compared to 393.
• The differences between the X3 M50 and our two AMG® GLC SUVs are also fascinating. For example, the GLC emphasizes hand-crafted performance, a driving signature that encourages enthusiasm from the driver, a focused cabin with sport seats that hug you, and a quicker time from 0-to-60 MPH in the AMG® GLC 63 S E Performance at 3.5 seconds over the X3 M50’s 4.4 seconds.
• The GLC offers more headroom for both front (41.3” vs. 40.5”) and rear (39.7” vs. 38.2”) seats than the X3. Not to mention, more legroom – front with 40.7” vs. 40.2” and rear with 37.4” vs. 36.3”.
• When it comes to safety, Mercedes-Benz always takes the lead. Which is why the GLC has a center air bag located between the front and center rear passenger. It is a feature the BMW does not offer.
• It is a game of inches when it comes to measuring the GLC and the X3. The Mercedes-Benz is shorter by about two inches, while riding on an inch longer wheelbase. It is also shorter in height by about an inch – all of which points to its nimbleness and ability to fit in any parking space easily.

Q5 models are powered by a 268-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, while the SQ5 gets a 362-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Regardless of model choice, either engine sends power to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.  Both the Q5 and SQ5 are available in SUV and Sportback body styles, and also offer the choice of Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels on Q5 and SQ5 models.

• Audi has a couple of Sport models wearing the SQ5 badge. Mercedes-Benz also has two AMG® GLC SUVs and two Coupe SUVs to counter the SQ5 in performance. Plus, all AMG® GLC models put down more power than the SQ5, with 416 and 671 horsepower, respectively, compared to 362.
• The GLC offers more headroom for both front (41.3 inches vs. 38.2) and rear (39.7 inches vs. 37.3) seats than the Q5.
• A longer wheelbase can deliver a better ride quality, so it’s important to note the GLC has a longer wheelbase than the Q5 (113.1 inches vs. 110.9).
• The Q5 is not offered with an efficient plug-in hybrid system. This driveline also reduces exhaust emissions, as does the GLC 350e 4MATIC® – a huge advantage for those who appreciate a cleaner-running vehicle.
• When finding the right value, you will be happy to know that the GLC 300 4MATIC® has an MSRP of around $1,000 less than the comparable Q5.

Volvo’s premium popular SUV comes from a lineage of vehicles made for safety. Powered by a 247-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged mild hybrid engine or a 455-horsepower plug-in hybrid driveline, All XC60s have an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Made in Volvo’s signature Swedish design language, the XC60 draws loyal customers to this SUV. There is also a choice of Core, Plus, or Ultra trim levels.

• When it comes to standard power, the GLC 300 4MATIC® offers the more. Our mild-hybrid turbocharged engine has 255 horsepower compared to the XC60’s standard 247-horsepower turbocharged mild hybrid engine.
• The GLC offers more headroom for both front (41.3 inches vs. 38) and rear (39.7 inches vs. 38) seats than the XC60.
• Connectivity is important, but so too is an infotainment system’s ease of operation. The GLC is driven by the Mercedes-Benz User Experience through its 14.5-inch touchscreen. The XC60’s is smaller at 11.2 inches and some have found it quite confusing to use.
• The climate controls are positioned separately from the MBUX center touchscreen display, whereas it is integrated in the XC60 as part of the screen.
• When looking at a plug-in hybrid, the GLC 350e 4MATIC® offers it at a lower MSRP than the XC60 B8 Core by $2,200.

When it comes to premium SUVs, Lexus offers this very popular model that is designed with comfort and advanced technology in mind. It also has a sporty side with the F Sport trim. There is a lineup of drivelines available, from the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine to two hybrids – including a plug-in hybrid. All models have all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic s connected to the turbocharged engine, while the hybrids use a CVT. Tere is also a choice of base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport trims.

• When it comes to plug-in hybrid power, the GLC 350e 4MATIC® offers the most. The Mercedes-Benz has 311 combined horsepower compared to the NX 450h+‘s 304 combined horsepower.
• The Mercedes-Benz User Experience-driven 14.9-inch center display touchscreen offers more connectivity and interaction than the Lexus’ 14-inch touchscreen.
• When you need to load more inside your NX, you may find yourself short. With the rear seats folded down, the GLC offers 56.9 cubic feet of space, compared to the NX’s 46.9 cubic feet.
• The GLC offers more headroom for both front (41.3 inches vs. 38.3) and rear (39.7 inches vs. 38.5) passengers than the NX.
• A longer wheelbase can deliver a better ride quality, so it’s important to note the GLC has a longer wheelbase than the NX (113.1 inches vs. 105.9).